Thailand closes thousands of cannabis shops

The transcription below presents news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia, ranging from the closure of thousands of cannabis shops in Thailand to Tomorrowland’s confirmation of a new Thailand edition with early event details.

1. Thailand closes thousands of cannabis shops
   Over 7,000 cannabis retailers shut down after stricter rules and licence renewal requirements, with only about 15% reapplying under the new regulatory framework.

2. Thai army issues warning after border mortar incident
   A stray mortar round from Cambodia injured a Thai soldier in Ubon Ratchathani. Thailand warned it will act in self-defence if incidents recur while monitoring the situation along the border.

3. PM candidate’s nuclear weapons proposal sparks backlash
   Prime ministerial hopeful Mongkolkit Suksintharanon proposed that Thailand acquire nuclear warheads, triggering widespread criticism and concerns over legality, feasibility, and regional implications.

4. Nurse claims politician’s actions led to jail and miscarriage
   A nurse accused a senior Pheu Thai figure of involvement in events that led to her imprisonment and miscarriage after allowing the politician to use her bank account. The politician has not publicly responded.

5. Tourist Police address aggressive photographers at Wat Arun
   Authorities intervened after reports of photographers pushing tourists and behaving aggressively at Wat Arun. Photographers were urged to act respectfully and avoid disrupting visitors.

6. British tourist’s 5G-at-sea video goes viral
   A British traveller praised Thailand’s strong 5G signal while at sea in Phang Nga in a viral video, prompting online discussions and national pride about the country’s mobile network coverage.

7. Jollibee plans US listing for global business unit
   Jollibee Foods announced plans to spin off its international operations and list them on a US stock exchange by 2027, sending its share price surging and offering shareholders proportional stakes.

8. Tomorrowland confirms Thailand edition with early details
   Tomorrowland announced a new festival in Thailand, releasing early information on dates and ticketing. Pre-registration opens on January 8, with the full lineup and schedule to follow.