Bangkok News

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    Do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?

    Thailand’s healthcare system is well-regarded across Southeast Asia, with options ranging from public hospitals to world-class private facilities. But when it comes to foreign residents or tourists, healthcare access isn’t as straightforward. So, do foreigners get free healthcare in Thailand?...

  • Stocking up: SET chairman tipped for Finance Minister role

    Stocking up: SET chairman tipped for Finance Minister role

    The chairman of the Stock of Thailand (SET) is reportedly poised to ascend to the position of Finance Minister, according to insider sources. The anticipated transition is slated to occur at the culmination of the ongoing parliamentary session on April 9, disclosed the informants. This strategic move aims to relieve Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin of his dual role, allowing him to…

  • Power cables on Bangkok’s Sarasin Road go underground

    Power cables on Bangkok’s Sarasin Road go underground

    The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), under the leadership of Khajon Srichawanothai, reported a triumph in the endeavour to relocate power cables underground along Sarasin Road. Amidst the verdant expanse of Lumpini Park, Pathumwan District, Bangkok, a historic announcement ceremony unfolded last Friday, March 8. Joined by Chadchart Sittipunt, Bangkok Governor, Vilas Chalaysat, MEA Governor, and a cadre of network executives,…

  • Tourists injured as sleepy driver crashes Fortuner into truck near Bangkok

    Tourists injured as sleepy driver crashes Fortuner into truck near Bangkok

    A Toyota Fortuner carrying two tourists to Suvarnabhumi Airport was involved in a collision after the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. The incident occurred at 6.30am today, March 13, when the SUV veered off course and slammed into the back of a 10-wheeler truck. The aftermath of the crash left passengers injured, requiring immediate medical attention. At the…

  • Sustainability Week Asia 2024: A call to action for climate crisis

    Sustainability Week Asia 2024: A call to action for climate crisis

    Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs spoke at the Sustainability Week Asia 2024 event hosted by Economist Impact, under The Economist media group, held at The Athenee Hotel, Bangkok. In his opening remarks, Parnpree rallied an esteemed audience comprising business magnates, both domestic and international, alongside government representatives, academia, and experts. Highlighting the gravity of the…

  • Bangkok hitchhiker’s fury: Helmet-wielding road rage riles driver

    Bangkok hitchhiker’s fury: Helmet-wielding road rage riles driver

    An angry Thai hitchhiker refused to apologise after scaring a Thai woman and smashing her car with a motorcycle helmet on an expressway in Bangkok on March 9, saying the victim was unhelpful by refusing to give him a ride. The victim, Panhathai Buranaprasoetkun, recounted the incident and shared dashcam footage on Facebook to warn other women travelling alone. Panhathai said…

  • Lottery Office unveils digital lottery ticket platform for vendors

    Lottery Office unveils digital lottery ticket platform for vendors

    The Government Lottery Office (GLO) announced the imminent launch of its digital lottery ticket platform, set to transform the way vendors sell tickets. GLO Director Lieutenant Colonel Noon Sansanakhom revealed that the eagerly awaited website will go live this Sunday, offering registered vendors the opportunity to sell tickets for the April 1 draw. Lt. Col. Noon detailed the key features…

  • Songkran sees more stringent alcohol sales regulations

    Songkran sees more stringent alcohol sales regulations

    In a bid to curb road accidents caused by drunk driving during the extended World Songkran Festival, which spans from April 1 to 21, the Public Health Ministry initiated stringent measures to control the sale of alcohol, particularly to minors. Public Health Minister Cholnan Srikaew outlined the festival’s divisions: a preparatory stage running from April 1 to 10, the main…

  • Thai Pakdee Party leader acquitted in defamation suit

    Thai Pakdee Party leader acquitted in defamation suit

    Dr Warong Dechgitvigrom, the leader of the Thai Pakdee Party, emerged triumphant today as the Criminal Court acquitted him in a high-stakes defamation suit brought forth by Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit, the former leader of the now-defunct Future Forward Party. Amidst the legal theatrics, Thanathorn, now at the helm of the Progressive Movement, was conspicuously absent as the verdict echoed through the…

  • DJ opens fire on Bangkok karaoke restaurant owner

    DJ opens fire on Bangkok karaoke restaurant owner

    A violent incident shattered the calm of a Bangkok neighbourhood yesterday as a DJ at a local karaoke restaurant opened fire on the establishment’s owner before turning the gun on himself. Police are now gathering evidence and witness testimonies to understand the motivation behind the attack. Police Lieutenant Atthapol Pongpradit, Deputy Investigator at Bueng Kum Police Station, was alerted to…

  • Health Ministry warns against dengue fever crisis: 25 fatalities

    Health Ministry warns against dengue fever crisis: 25 fatalities

    Dengue fever looms large over Thailand as the Public Health Ministry urges citizens to arm themselves with mosquito repellents to stave off the relentless onslaught of the deadly virus. With reported cases skyrocketing to a staggering 17,783, surpassing last year’s figures for the same period, the situation has become dire. Public Health Minister Dr Cholnan Srikaew underscored the gravity of…

  • Flavour triumph: Thai chef whisks up victory as Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024

    Flavour triumph: Thai chef whisks up victory as Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024

    In a culinary coup of epic proportions, a female Thai chef has clinched the prestigious title of Asia’s Best Female Chef 2024 at the illustrious Asia’s 50 Best Restaurant Awards. Pichaya Soontornyanakij’s victory isn’t just about her gastronomic prowess, it’s a clarion call for breaking barriers in the male-dominated culinary sphere. Scheduled to receive her laurels at Asia’s 50 Best…

  • Scandal hits Government House with 500,000 baht lawn

    Scandal hits Government House with 500,000 baht lawn

    The eagerly awaited overhaul of Government House’s front lawn, allegedly costing a staggering 498,352 baht, is on the brink of completion, according to insider sources. An informant disclosed that Green Value Co Ltd clinched the lucrative project due to its unbeatably low bid among three contenders. Utilising Paspalam grass, renowned for its resilience in scorching climates and durability against heavy…

  • Bangkok bust nets over 5kg of cocaine at Suvarnabhumi Airport

    Bangkok bust nets over 5kg of cocaine at Suvarnabhumi Airport

    Thai authorities successfully dismantled an international drug trafficking operation at Suvarnabhumi Airport, seizing a substantial haul of cocaine destined for the country’s entertainment venues. The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB), along with the Customs Department, announced the capture of three foreign nationals and the interception of 5,360 grams of cocaine, cleverly concealed within clothes drying racks and sent…

  • AirAsia ramp agent’s tarmac tango at Bangkok airport goes viral

    AirAsia ramp agent’s tarmac tango at Bangkok airport goes viral

    An AirAsia ramp agent’s impromptu dance routine on the Don Mueang International Airport tarmac recently caught the attention of social media followers in Thailand, transforming from a point of initial drama to a story with a heartwarming conclusion. The young staff member, known as “Mos,” was captured dancing with fluid grace in his work attire against the backdrop of an…

  • Australian man under investigation for road rage incident near Bangkok (video)

    Australian man under investigation for road rage incident near Bangkok (video)

    A Thai woman filed a complaint against an Australian man, accusing him of intentionally causing an accident and damaging her car at Bearing Intersection in Samut Prakarn province near Bangkok on March 3. The Thai driver, Angkana, reported to DailyNews that the incident took place when she was driving her sedan to her home in Samrong Nuea district of Samut…

  • Bangkok’s Klong Ong Ang Canal neglected despite tourism appeal

    Bangkok’s Klong Ong Ang Canal neglected despite tourism appeal

    The controversy around the neglected state of the Klong Ong Ang Canal area, once touted as a tourist hotspot by the previous government, has prompted officials from the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to come forward in defence. Images revealing the dilapidated condition of the area, including parked vehicles on a freshly paved footpath, abandoned artistic graffiti installations, and homeless individuals…

  • Bangkok cops bust plus-size women’s sex trade party organiser

    Bangkok cops bust plus-size women’s sex trade party organiser

    Bangkok’s bustling city centre became the scene of a significant police raid when police apprehended a 49 year old woman, the alleged organiser of plus-size women’s parties involving illicit activities. The police operation, led by high-ranking officers from the Metropolitan Police, resulted in the seizure of condoms, sex toys, and other items related to the sex trade. The crackdown took…

  • Desperate Thai fruit seller offers eye for sale to clear debt

    Desperate Thai fruit seller offers eye for sale to clear debt

    A poignant image of a 57 year old Thai fruit seller in Bangkok has stirred waves across the Internet after he pledged to donate one of his eyes to resolve his financial woes. The heartrending scene, initially shared by the Facebook Page Panda Lab Doctor, depicts the man selling fruits with a placard bearing the urgent message: “Eye for Sale.”…

  • BMTA set to go green with 3,390 electric buses

    BMTA set to go green with 3,390 electric buses

    Bangkok Mass Transit Authority (BMTA) embarks on an initiative to replace its ageing fleet with 3,390 electric buses, announced Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri. During a recent board meeting, it was revealed that the BMTA has prioritised the urgent acquisition of new electric buses, aligning with its commitment to mitigate environmental impact across the metropolitan area. Manaporn, overseeing the BMTA,…

  • Thai women march to Government House for labour rights

    Thai women march to Government House for labour rights

    Bangkok streets echoed with the chants of empowered Thai women as they marched to Government House, armed with 11 demands to challenge labour oppression on this International Women’s Day. Thai women’s labour groups, spearheaded by the Thai Labour Solidarity Committee (TLSC), took to the streets with a resolute message under the banner of Resistance against Women’s Labour Oppression Capitalism. Their…

  • Bangkok’s street stall showdown: Pedestrians vs Vendors

    Bangkok’s street stall showdown: Pedestrians vs Vendors

    The age-old saga of Bangkok’s bustling streets versus its iconic street stalls continues, with the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) at the forefront of a new regulation to solve the decade-long issue of street stalls encroaching on pedestrian paths. A resident of Bangkok’s Udom Suk area lamented her daily struggle as a pedestrian, echoing the frustrations of many. “Footpath warfare is…

  • Thailand’s population to halve in 60 years, warns deputy PM

    Thailand’s population to halve in 60 years, warns deputy PM

    Deputy Prime Minister Somsak Thepsutin cautioned that Thailand’s population could plummet from 66 million to a mere 33 million within six decades. This alarming forecast, issued yesterday, spells out dire consequences for the nation’s economic vitality and security, with the working-age populace dwindling from 46 million to a mere 14 million, according to Somsak. Speaking at a meeting of a…

  • Norwegian and British nationals arrested for illegal employment

    Norwegian and British nationals arrested for illegal employment

    A Norwegian woman and a British man have been apprehended in Thailand for alleged illegal employment. The arrests occurred on Koh Pha Ngan and Phuket island respectively, as part of a police operation targeting foreign nationals working unlawfully in the country. The Norwegian woman, 56 year old Unni Sekkesaeter was taken into custody at Tha Sala pier in the district…

  • Update: Filipina transgender beauty contestant speaks out after Bangkok brawl

    Update: Filipina transgender beauty contestant speaks out after Bangkok brawl

    A Filipina transgender beauty contestant stepped into the spotlight following a viral Bangkok street brawl, seeking to soothe tensions and advocate for respect from the hosts. Two Filipina nationals faced charges for assaulting six Thai transgender individuals outside the Citin Hotel on Soi Sukhumvit 11 on Monday, March 4. The altercation erupted among a group of over 20 tourists, leading…

  • Double trouble: British lookalikes forge unlikely friendship on flight to Thailand

    Double trouble: British lookalikes forge unlikely friendship on flight to Thailand

    An airport mix-up led a pair of British lookalikes to discover they not only shared the same flight but also the same name, sparking an unlikely friendship. The lookalikes, Mark Garland, a 58 year old bus driver from Trowbridge, Wiltshire, and another Mark Garland, a 62 year old builder from Warmley, Bristol, were inadvertently seated next to each other on an…

  • Alarming statistics: Thailand women in domestic violence crisis

    Alarming statistics: Thailand women in domestic violence crisis

    The National Human Rights Commission of Thailand (NHRC) delivered a stark wake-up call as alarming statistics reveal a grim reality: seven women become victims of sexual assault and abuse daily in Thailand. Pornprapai Ganjanarintr, chairperson of the NHRC, issued a resounding plea for gender equality across all sectors. In a society riddled with patriarchal structures, Ganjanarintr highlighted the harrowing repercussions,…

  • House of cards: Vietnamese nationals busted in Bangkok gambling raid

    House of cards: Vietnamese nationals busted in Bangkok gambling raid

    Immigration Bureau officers raided a luxury house in the Rama 9 neighbourhood of Bangkok and arrested 18 Vietnamese nationals for running a gambling website. Immigration police revealed to several news outlets in a press conference yesterday, March 7, that they successfully suppressed an online gambling gang run by a Vietnamese investor on March 5. They arrested 18 Vietnamese suspects at…

  • Declining conditions of Bangkok’s Klong Ong Ang raise concerns

    Declining conditions of Bangkok’s Klong Ong Ang raise concerns

    A United Thai Nation Party‘s (UTN) Parliament member voiced concerns yesterday about the neglected state of Klong Ong Ang, a once thriving tourist attraction in the heart of Bangkok’s Chinatown. Kriangyot Sudlapha, a UTN list-MP, raised the issue in the House of Representatives, urging the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) to step in and rejuvenate the area. Located in the Phra…

  • Beware the bill dodger: Thai rescue warns Bangkok eateries of Thai man’s seizure scam

    Beware the bill dodger: Thai rescue warns Bangkok eateries of Thai man’s seizure scam

    A Thai rescue foundation issued a scam warning to restaurants and bars in Bangkok, urging them to remain vigilant for a Thai man who has been repeatedly feigning seizures after meals to avoid paying his bills. The rescue team, stationed in the Phattanakarn, On Nut, Srinagarindra, and Suan Luang neighborhoods of Bangkok urged the media to highlight the Thai man’s…

  • Thailand’s digital wellness revolution boosts revenue

    Thailand’s digital wellness revolution boosts revenue

    Thailand’s Industry Ministry is spearheading a digital revolution aimed at boosting revenue for the nation’s wellness and medical business entrepreneurs. With the ambitious target of surpassing 30 million baht in revenue, this initiative promises to reshape the landscape of Thailand’s tourism and economy. Under this visionary scheme, the ministry is equipping businesses with cutting-edge digital equipment and technologies, propelling them…