In today’s Thailand video news, Alex brings key updates from across Thailand and ASEAN. Stories include the tragic death of a tourist after a Full Moon party in Koh Phangan, a fatal stabbing in Bangkok following a traffic dispute, and an assault on a Swiss tourist in Pattaya. Regional headlines highlight former Thai PM Thaksin’s new advisory role for Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship, Thailand’s push for stricter alcohol laws, and expanded universal healthcare coverage. Additional coverage spans Mary Jane Veloso’s release from Indonesian prison, Malaysia’s first EV launch, and India’s energy partnership with Sri Lanka.
Tourist Found Dead after Full Moon party in Koh Phangan
A tourist was found dead near the Hin Song Kon 7-Eleven store in Koh Phangan on December 16. Koh Phangan Police and rescue teams responded to the scene at 7:20 AM and confirmed there were no signs of violence. The body was taken to Koh Phangan Hospital for autopsy, and authorities are awaiting further instructions from the embassy. The tourist carried a New South Wales driver’s license under the name C. Boucher, 37, though identity confirmation is ongoing. The investigation continues, with authorities ensuring cooperation with the embassy and adherence to international protocols.
Thai Man Stabbed to Death After Traffic Dispute in Bangkok
A 23-year-old Thai man, Apiwit, was fatally stabbed outside a condominium on Rama II Soi 54 in Bangkok on December 15 following a traffic dispute. The altercation began as motorcyclists cut in front of each other and escalated into a physical fight. During the scuffle, the suspect stabbed Apiwit in the chest and fled the scene. Apiwit initially walked into the condominium before collapsing and later died despite CPR efforts. Police are reviewing security footage to identify the suspect, while an autopsy is underway before Apiwit’s body is returned to his family.
Swiss Tourist Attacked by Local Youths in Pattaya
A 66-year-old Swiss tourist, Manoutcher Kamel Kamai, was attacked by a group of local youths in Pattaya on December 15. After parking his car on South Pattaya Road, he found 4-6 teenagers smashing his SUV’s windows with rocks. When he intervened, two assailants physically assaulted him, leaving him injured. The attack only stopped when a passerby intervened, causing the gang to flee. Mr. Kamai reported the incident to the police, who are now reviewing CCTV footage and gathering evidence to locate and arrest the suspects.
Thaksin to Become Informal Advisor to Malaysian PM for ASEAN
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim has appointed former Thai PM Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal advisor for Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025. The announcement was made during a meeting with Thailand’s PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra, where they discussed boosting bilateral ties, tourism collaboration, and border infrastructure. Key topics included aligning tourism campaigns, Thailand’s Six Countries, One Destination single-visa proposal, and constructing a new bridge linking Narathiwat (Thailand) and Kelantan (Malaysia). Both nations aim to increase bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2027. Also, Thailand supports Malaysia’s initiative to address the Myanmar crisis during its ASEAN leadership.
Thailand Targets Tougher Alcohol Laws to Align with Global Norms
Thailand is advancing the Alcoholic Beverage Control Bill to align with global norms, with parliamentary deliberation expected in January. Key changes include potential revisions to alcohol sales hours while maintaining the ban on round-the-clock sales. The bill will establish provincial committees to enforce age restrictions and address alcohol-related risks, such as drinking games and drink-driving. Anti-alcohol groups and officials stress stricter controls, particularly during New Year celebrations, citing binge drinking and drink-driving as major issues. Experts warn that extended sales hours could worsen road safety, advocating for tougher penalties for DUI offences.
Thailand Accelerates Universal Healthcare Coverage Nationwide
Thailand’s Health Ministry is expanding the 30 Baht for Healthcare Anywhere programme nationwide, targeting full implementation by the end of 2024. Currently active in 46 provinces, the initiative will officially launch nationwide on December 25, led by PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The programme integrates digital health technologies, streamlining patient referrals and improving efficiency. Evolving from its original 30 baht scheme, patients now receive treatment across locations without payment. Future reforms will address biosafety, older people care, and referral systems, marking a significant transformation in Thailand’s universal healthcare strategy.
Filipina Who Won a Last-Minute Reprieve from Indonesian Firing Squad Prepares to Fly Home
Mary Jane Veloso, a Filipina who narrowly escaped execution in Indonesia in 2015, will return home this week after 15 years in prison. Arrested in 2010 with heroin hidden in her luggage, Veloso claimed she was duped by a recruiter. A last-minute reprieve came when her recruiter was arrested in the Philippines. Her release follows a “practical arrangement” between the two countries signed on December 6. Veloso, now 40, expressed relief at reuniting with her family. Indonesia, a major drug smuggling hub, continues to enforce strict drug laws, with 530 people still on death row, including many foreigners.
Malaysia’s Proton Launches Its First Electric Vehicle
Malaysia’s Proton has launched its first electric vehicle, the e.MAS 7, marking its entry into the growing EV market. Co-owned by DRB HICOM and China’s Geely, Proton’s EV models are priced at 109,800 and 123,800 Malaysian ringgit. The launch follows the entry of BYD, Tesla, and Stellantis into Malaysia’s EV market. With a goal for EVs and hybrids to make up 20% of new car sales by 2030, Malaysia saw a 112% surge in EV sales in early 2024. PM Anwar Ibrahim expressed hopes for future local production and increased involvement of Malaysian firms in EV manufacturing.
Modi Says India Plans to Supply LNG to Sri Lanka, Connect Power Grids
India plans to supply LNG to Sri Lanka’s power plants, connect their power grids, and lay a petroleum pipeline, Indian PM Narendra Modi announced during Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s visit. Indian firm Petronet LNG will supply LNG to Colombo’s power plants, while both nations aim to jointly develop offshore wind power in the Palk Straits, where India’s Adani Group plans investments. India previously extended $4 billion in aid to Sri Lanka during its 2022 economic crisis, with ongoing discussions to finalise a debt restructuring memorandum of understanding.
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