Thailand News
Discover the most recent and relevant news from across Thailand on The Thaiger’s National News page. Covering a wide range of topics, including politics, business, crime, and lifestyle, our dedicated team brings you breaking news, in-depth analysis, and exclusive stories from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and beyond.
Stay informed about the latest developments in Thai society, economy, and culture, as well as updates on travel, tourism, and expat life. With The Thaiger, you’ll never miss out on the essential news that matters to you.
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Sponsored Is tap water in Thailand safe to consume?
Wondering if you can drink the tap water in Thailand? From brushing your teeth to filling up a bottle, it’s helpful to understand a few basics. Tap water safety in Thailand varies by location, and while some people use it...
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Phatthalung plans airport to become Thailand’s logistics hub
Officials in Phatthalung are gearing up to transform the province into a bustling logistics hub in southern Thailand with plans to construct a new airport. This ambitious initiative, aimed at elevating the province’s economic profile, is anticipated to be presented to the Cabinet soon. A major step forward was taken when the Phatthalung governor submitted a formal request to the…
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Thailand launches anti-drug campaign in 10 pilot provinces
Thailand is taking decisive action against drug-related issues by designating 10 provinces as pilot areas to test new strategies. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasised the broader societal impacts of drug problems during her visit to Roi Et, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to tackle this challenge. Drug problems are seen as a significant barrier to national progress…
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Loy Krathong festival set to light up Wat Arun on November 15
Bangkok’s Wat Arun is set to illuminate the night on November 15 with its Loy Krathong festival. The festival promises a multicultural experience, underscored by a theme song performed in an array of languages, including Thai, English, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, and Spanish, to foster a deeper understanding of the event’s cultural importance. Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol announced that the Suntharaporn…
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5 surprising ways Internet of Behaviour impacts daily life and choices of Thais
It’s strange, almost unsettling, how an online ad seems to read your mind. It knows you’ve been eyeing those Onitsuka Tiger sneakers, popular among Bangkok’s fashionistas, even though you’ve barely mentioned it. That, right there, is the IoB at work—the Internet of Behaviours. Picture IoT (Internet of Things), but more invasive. While the IoT connects physical gadgets, like smart lights…
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Thai man slaps famous lawyer allegedly over criticism of Islam
A Thai man slapped a famous lawyer during an interview at the Central Investigation Bureau’s Complaint Centre in Bangkok today, November 1, claiming he was offended by the lawyer’s criticism of Islam. Pictures and videos of the incident, in which renowned lawyer Dhammarat Sarapanya was slapped, circulated on Thai social media this afternoon. Dhammarat was seen giving an interview at…
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Land of opportunity: Thailand lays ground for 99-year ‘lease’ of a lifetime
In a bold move to bolster foreign investment, Thailand is set to revolutionise its land lease policies by extending terms to an impressive 99 years. This game-changing proposal was unveiled by Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira at the glitzy CEO Econmas Awards 2024, marking a monumental shift for international investors eyeing long-term opportunities in the Land of…
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Thailand embraces AI to lead global economy by 2030
Thailand is rapidly embracing artificial intelligence (AI) technology across public and private sectors, aligning with global technological advancements. This movement was highlighted during a seminar, where experts emphasised the importance of an AI-ready workforce to propel Thailand into the forefront of the AI-driven global economy by 2030. Scheduled as a significant milestone, 2030 is anticipated to witness a global economic…
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Monks under ‘charm’ fire for selling Moo Deng amulets
A wave of drama unfolded when Thai monks from a temple in the Bang Lamung district of Chon Buri introduced Moo Deng amulets, sparking concern among residents. Locals worry that these charms could make people excessively gullible. The pygmy hippo Moo Deng has become a sensation among Thais and foreigners alike. Moo Deng has drawn thousands of visitors to the…
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Thailand’s industrial sector hit by mass layoffs amid economic woes
Mass layoffs have swept through Thailand’s industrial sector, with approximately 2,600 factory workers losing their jobs over the past two days. Financial difficulties have compelled employers to downsize their operations, leading to significant disruptions in the workforce. An electric vehicle manufacturer in Chachoengsao announced that 600 workers will be laid off, effective December 1. This decision, communicated in a letter…
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15,000 Malaysian tourists flock to Thailand for Diwali, Halloween
Thailand’s southern border districts are experiencing a significant surge in visitors from Malaysia as tourists flock across the border to celebrate Halloween and Diwali. Yesterday, October 31, marked a notable influx, with over 15,000 Malaysian tourists crossing the Sadao immigration checkpoint in Songkhla‘s Sadao district. The day coincided with Malaysia’s public holiday for the Diwali festival, prompting many to take advantage…
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Med school malpractice: Thai students fight ‘doctoring’ of licence fees
A prospective Thai doctor is on a quest for justice after educational service agencies allegedly attempted to overcharge her and 20 other medical students studying in the Philippines, and fabricated a document for medical licences in Thailand. There are also suspicions that the Medical Council of Thailand may have had a hand in these dubious dealings. The victim, referred to…
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GDP on the up: Thailand’s economy gears up for 2.7% ‘Thai’ to growth
Thailand’s Finance Ministry is projecting GDP growth of 2.7% for the current year, with expectations to reach 3% in 2025. The Fiscal Policy Office (FPO) announced that while fiscal measures have been maximally employed to bolster the economy, further support from monetary policy is essential for achieving higher growth rates. During the ministry’s economic briefing, Pornchai Thiraveja, FPO Director-General, reaffirmed…
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Malaysian tourist falls from Phuket hotel balcony onto parked car
A Malaysian tourist‘s trip to Phuket took a dramatic turn when she fell from a hotel balcony in Patong, landing on a parked car below. The incident occurred early today, November 1, sending shockwaves across the bustling tourist area. The local police in Patong responded swiftly to an emergency call at 4.37am, arriving at the hotel situated on Rat-U Thit…
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Murder-suicide attempt: Burmese man dies after stabbing Thai girlfriend
A Burmese man stabbed his Thai girlfriend and committed suicide following her discovery that he had a legal wife in Myanmar and her request to end the relationship. The Thai woman survived the attack and remains in hospital. The Burmese man, 29 year old Htet, attempted to murder his Thai girlfriend, 24 year old Jiraporn, yesterday, October 31. However, only…
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Thailand plans retirement lottery for over 60s, launching 2025
Thailand’s Deputy Finance Minister announced plans to present the retirement lottery scheme to the Cabinet for approval next month, aiming to begin sales in the first quarter of 2025. The scheme proposes extending the eligible age for purchasing lottery tickets to over 60 years. Paophum Rojanasakul addressing the progress of the retirement savings lottery, stated that the proposal is expected to…
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Shocking tragedy: Electrician electrocuted in building mishap
An electrician tragically lost his life due to electrocution while working on the electrical installation of a newly constructed rental building. His death was discovered by a colleague who noticed he had not joined the team for lunch. Police received a report yesterday, October 31, at 3pm regarding the unfortunate incident at a rental room in Chong Kham, Mueang district,…
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Udon Thani man arrested for child prostitution scheme
A 42 year old man was arrested for facilitating child prostitution after disguising himself as a food delivery rider in Udon Thani. The man, Yutthasart, allegedly charged clients 1,000 baht and deducted 200 to 300 baht from the children involved. Police Colonel Phatthanawong Chantapol, along with the investigative team from Udon Thani Provincial Police, announced the arrest, citing charges of…
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Thai teacher’s close call: Drug addict hides in her room
A Thai teacher narrowly escaped danger after discovering a drug addict hiding in her welfare accommodation near a school in the Thong Pha Phum district, in Kanchanaburi province. The teacher reported the incident to Thong Pha Phum Police Station on Wednesday, October 30, after finding the Thai man in her room. She shared CCTV footage with the police as evidence,…
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Investigation launched into lawyer accused of 71 million baht fraud
The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) chief confirmed a thorough investigation has been conducted into a high-profile fraud case involving a prominent lawyer accused of defrauding an individual out of 71 million baht. The case, filed by Jatuporn “Madam Oi” Ubonlert, accuses prominent lawyer Sittha Biabangkerd of deceiving her into investing in an online lottery business. Police Major General Montri Teskan,…
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Jealousy turns deadly: Man shot at Mae Sot restaurant
A tragic incident unfolded at a restaurant in Mae Sot when a 34 year old man was shot dead by the establishment’s owner, a retired civil servant, in a fit of jealousy. The altercation, which escalated into a deadly confrontation, took place in the early hours of today, November 1. The incident occurred around 3am when the police, led by…
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Spooky scenes: Police raid leaves partygoers haunted by drug bust
A Halloween night raid on two popular pubs in Chanthaburi left partygoers in disarray as police discovered nearly 100 people with drugs in their system and multiple underage patrons. The crackdown now seeks a five-year closure of the venues. The operation took place around 1:30am today, November 1, initiated by Anutin Charnvirakul, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior.…
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Drug-addicted Thai man kills 4 month old daughter with pesticide
A drug-addicted Thai man in the central province of Lopburi confessed to adding pesticide to a milk bottle which resulted in the death of his four month old daughter. The 45 year old man, Suriya Thippaha, took his son-in-law, 39 year old Chatmongkhon Chaiyatha, to Lamsonthi Police Station in Lopburi province, accusing him of killing his four month old granddaughter…
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Teen accidentally fires homemade gun, injures friend in Pathum Thani
A 19 year old man accidentally discharged a gun, injuring himself and critically wounding his friend at a convenience store. Police swiftly responded, discovering a homemade pen gun at the scene. The incident occurred in the early hours of today, November 1. At 3.30am, police were alerted to a shooting incident at the entrance of Soi Rangsit-Pathum Thani 14, Pathum…
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KO tragedy: British boxing hopeful’s final round in Pattaya hotel
A young British boxing hopeful was found lifeless at the swanky Vogue Hotel in Pattaya, Thailand. The grim discovery of Joshua Goldstone in the early hours of Wednesday, October 30, has left friends and fans reeling, as the boxer’s Australian mate is battling for his life amidst the scandalous surroundings of a potential drug overdose. The 21 year old fighter’s…
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Police officer in drunk driving crash escapes legal action
A troubling police corruption case has emerged involving an officer allegedly driving while drunk, resulting in a collision with a parked car, yet faced no legal repercussions. The incident, which took place four months ago, raised concerns over potential bias and inadequate investigation. The incident occurred previously on June 20, when a red Mazda parked on the roadside within the…
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Cyber cops caught in 300 million baht web of greed
Nine Cyber Crime Investigation Bureau (CCIB) officers and three additional suspects allegedly attempted to extort 300 million baht from a Vanuatu-Chinese couple. Ten suspects were arrested while two others remain at large. The Vanuatu man named Sai and his Chinese wife reported to officers at Bang Sue Police Station that a group of men claiming to be police officers swindled…
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Heavy rain alert for 33 provinces in Thailand as temperatures drop
Weather warnings have been issued for 33 provinces in Thailand, forecasting heavy rain covering 30% of areas due to a new wave of cold air bringing strong winds and a significant temperature drop expected tomorrow, November 2. From November 2 to 5, the Meteorological Department of Thailand (TMD) indicates moderate to relatively strong high-pressure system from China is expected to…
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Karon police ‘taxi’ the bull by the horns: No more illegal rides
Karon police have hit back at online accusations claiming they’ve been lax in tackling illegal taxi operations. In a bold announcement, they revealed that a whopping 208 illegal taxis have been stopped and seized since the start of July. In a statement released earlier yesterday, October 31, Karon Police reassured the public that their officers have been conducting checkpoints at…
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Thailand’s cultural treasures shine bright: No.8 in global rankings
Thailand has secured a top spot in cultural heritage, ranking eighth out of 89 countries, according to a recent US News & World report. This prestigious ranking catapults Thailand into the elite league of culturally rich nations, celebrated for its vibrant traditions and historical significance. The American media powerhouse determined the rankings based on five crucial attributes: cultural accessibility, rich…
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Thai schoolboy stabs classmate over school bus seat dispute
A Thai schoolboy from a school in the northern province of Sukhothai today stabbed his classmate on a school bus, reportedly following an argument over seats. Officers from Sri Satchanalai Police Station were called to investigate the stabbing on a school bus parked along a road in the Sri Satchanalai district of Sukhothai at around 7.30am, today, October 31. The…
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