Shooting and Hostage Situation at Hat Yai School

The transcription below features news stories from across Thailand, hosted by Jay on the Good Morning Thailand programme. The reports range from a school hostage crisis in Hat Yai, a tourist found injured in Pattaya, major visa changes nationwide, Bangkok’s free Valentine weddings, new sugar rules, monks completing a 3,700-km peace walk, and Thailand’s corruption score falls.

Shooting and Hostage Situation at Hat Yai School
An 18-year-old gunman stormed Patongprathankiriwat School in Hat Yai, injuring at least three people and taking students and teachers hostage before police intervened. The school director has since been pronounced dead, while the suspect was shot, wounded, and taken into custody as investigations continue.

Drunk American Man Found Injured in Pattaya
An American man was found injured and heavily intoxicated outside a Pattaya condominium, prompting rescue workers to rush him to hospital. Police are investigating whether alcohol, an accident, or a possible altercation led to his condition.

Thailand Revamps Visa Policies to Boost Economy
Thailand has approved sweeping visa reforms aimed at attracting tourists, retirees, students, and digital nomads with simplified processes and extended stay options. Officials say the changes are designed to boost foreign spending and strengthen the country’s post-pandemic economic recovery.

Buddhist Monks Complete 3,700 km U.S. Peace Walk
A group of Buddhist monks has completed a 3,700-kilometre peace walk from Texas to Washington, D.C., promoting unity and compassion. The 100-day journey concluded with public gatherings in the U.S. capital celebrating their message of non-violence.

Thailand’s Corruption Index Score Falls in 2025
Thailand scored 33 out of 100 in the 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index, ranking 116th globally and marking a slight decline from the previous year. The drop has renewed calls for stronger transparency measures and anti-corruption reforms.

Thailand Cuts Sugar Levels in “Normal” Sweet Drinks
Thailand’s Department of Health has halved the default sugar content in common beverages such as iced coffee and tea to promote healthier consumption. Retailers are expected to comply under new guidelines aimed at reducing obesity and diabetes rates nationwide.

Bangkok Offers Free Valentine’s Day Marriage Services
Bangkok is offering free marriage registration services for Valentine’s Day, allowing couples to tie the knot without paying official fees. District offices are also providing commemorative certificates and festive setups to mark the romantic occasion.