News
Thailand news, politics, business, crime, lifestyle, and tourism—stay updated with breaking news and in-depth analysis from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and beyond. The Thaiger delivers the latest national news that matters.
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Sponsored 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?...
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Egyptian arrested for sexually assaulting Thai woman in condo lift
Police yesterday arrested an Egyptian man for stalking and sexually assaulting a Thai woman in the lift of a condominium in Bangkok on Friday, November 16. The 25 year old victim, identified only as Ann, shared CCTV footage of the incident on her TikTok account, @khun_ning. The video was widely reshared by several Thai media outlets. Ann already reported the…
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Rain check: Thailand takes a chill pill as north braces for wind, rain
Thailand braces for cooler temperatures and strong winds in the north, while heavy rainfall is expected to pound 12 provinces. The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) issued warnings about potential severe weather conditions, including strong waves exceeding 2 metres. A moderate high-pressure system from China now blankets upper Thailand and the South China Sea, leading to cooler weather and breezy mornings…
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Indian man arrested for firing blank gun in Pattaya neighbourhood
Chaos ensued in a residential neighbourhood of Soi Kopai on 4/1 in Pattaya when a 36 year old Indian national fired a blank gun into the sky, causing widespread panic. This incident unfolded late yesterday, November 20, prompting immediate action from local law enforcement. Deputy Chief of the Pattaya City Police Station, R.T.T. Chittisuk Suthinitaswong, received a report at 11.36pm…
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Worming success: Thailand village cashes in on earthworm empire
In a wild twist on traditional farming, a quirky village in Nakhon Phanom, Thailand, is turning the world of unusual professions on its head by raking in a staggering 50 million baht annually from a rather slimy source: earthworms! Yes, you read that right. The ingenious residents of Ban Tan, nestled in the Na Wa District, have been cashing in…
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Heartbreak on the tracks: Pattaya woman takes drastic measures
Chaos unfolded on East Pattaya’s railway road when a heartbroken Thai woman, found sobbing in the middle of traffic, brought the area to a standstill. Nong Prue Police raced to the scene in Khao Noi yesterday, November 19 after receiving alarming reports of a woman crying on the road, seemingly intent on harming herself. Officers discovered 37 year old Pornpit…
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Doggy paddle: Brave dog’s pawsome escape from Buriram well
In a heart-stopping tale of sheer survival, rescue workers in Buriram were floored by the bravery and quick thinking of a stray dog that managed to keep its head above water—literally! The canine Houdini found itself in deep trouble after toppling into an old well at the backside of Sra Yam Ma market in Nang Rong district but ingeniously used…
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Pothole pandemonium: Pattaya dark shortcut sparks chaos
Frustrated residents of South Pattaya have had enough of the endless construction chaos on the infamous shortcut road on Thep Prasit Soi 7. After years of delays and mounting complaints, city council members Nikom Saengkaew and Prasatporn Deeden finally stepped in on November 16 to address the issue. The unfinished road, meant to link Thep Prasit Soi 7 to Soi…
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Spot the difference: Thai sausage takes a grilling on social media
A seemingly innocuous photo of a beloved northern Thai sausage, sai ua, has set social media on fire after a curious consumer posted a picture laden with mysterious white spots. The image, shared on the Facebook group We Are Consumers, saw the worried buyer questioning the safety of the sausage, causing a flurry of responses and culinary curiosity. With a…
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Pumped up: Petrol prices to rise, leaving Thailand drivers fuming
Hold onto your wallets, folks! Come tomorrow, November 21, at 5am, petrol and gasohol prices are set to climb by 30 satang per litre, courtesy of PTT Station’s latest price tweak. In contrast, diesel aficionados can breathe a slight sigh of relief as their prices remain untouched. Once the clock strikes, expect to shell out 44.24 baht per litre for…
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Pichai spices up the US: 50 influencers back authentic Thai food
Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan has enlisted the help of 50 powerful US influencers to promote a wave of authentic Thai restaurants across the US. The star-studded event took place in Hollywood, California, where Pichai awarded prestigious Thai Select certificates to seven US-based Thai restaurants. The 6pm ceremony, yesterday, November 19, which was broadcast live on social media by influencers with…
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GTA reports gold prices glisten amidst market chaos
In a refreshing change from recent volatility, the Gold Traders Association (GTA) sparkled with an announcement that gold prices are holding firm today, maintaining the surge seen earlier. For the shrewd investor or even the casual enthusiast watching their assets, this is golden news. Gold ornaments are on offer for 43,600 baht per baht weight, mirroring yesterday’s closing figures, much…
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THAI to fly wide-body jets on domestic routes this December
In a move that’s sure to delight frequent flyers, Thai Airways (THAI) revealed plans to swap its trusty A320s for luxurious wide-bodied aircraft on select domestic routes this December, just in time for the peak holiday season. The airline is ramping up capacity to accommodate the soaring demand during the Christmas-to-new year rush, from December 20 to 31. While official…
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Phuket goes green: Old town steps up for carbon-free tourism
Phuket Old Town took centre stage on Monday, November 18, as the Department of Tourism unveiled its bold initiative to promote low-carbon tourism routes, marking a milestone in sustainable travel for the 2024 fiscal year. Local leaders and media gathered for the showcase event in the historic heart of Phuket, which spotlighted eco-friendly travel practices and the charm of the…
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Buriram land dispute nears resolution as SRT claims ownership
A significant land dispute over a 5,083-rai plot in Buriram’s Khao Kradong is set to be resolved, as Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit confirmed that the land belongs to the State Railway of Thailand (SRT). With 900 people currently residing on this land, the ministry aims to address the situation within the next 30 days. The Supreme Court ruled in favour…
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Bet your bottom baht: Phuket cops cash in on secret gambling bust
Thalang Police swooped on an underground gambling ring in Srisoonthorn, Phuket, arresting 11 people during a targeted raid led by Police Lieutenant Colonel Suchart Luecha. The operation took place at a worker’s residence in Village 4, Srisoonthorn, yesterday, November 19, resulting in a high-profile haul and hefty charges for those involved. Among the arrested were nine women and two men,…
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Royal Thai Army officer charged for embezzling funds in Chon Buri
The Royal Thai Army (RTA) announced disciplinary action against a military officer at the 14th Military Circle in Chon Buri, following allegations of embezzling bail money from defendants. The officer is facing both criminal charges and potential severe disciplinary measures. Discussions with the victims are scheduled for tomorrow to explore possible assistance. An internal investigation confirmed the misconduct, leading to…
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Pickup crash in Chiang Kham causes district-wide power outage
A dramatic incident unfolded when a speeding pickup truck careened off a curve and crashed into an electricity pole, plunging an entire district into darkness. The power outage affected Chiang Kham district, where local electricity authority officials promptly worked to restore power. Yesterday, November 19, a rescue team from the Siam Phayao Foundation’s main office in Chiang Kham responded to…
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Thailand partners with Turkey to build high-speed rail empire
Thailand is gearing up to transform its rail landscape by partnering with Turkey’s state-owned train manufacturer, Türasaş, in a bold step towards high-speed travel. Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit revealed on Monday, November 18, that the collaboration aims to boost Thailand’s transport sector and establish a domestic rail manufacturing industry. During his recent visit to Türasaş’s Sakarya facility in Turkey, Suriya…
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Thailand ranks in top three for Southeast Asia IPOs
Thailand has emerged as one of the top three initial public offering (IPO) markets in Southeast Asia, securing 26% of the total fundraising in the region. This achievement reflects a robust pipeline of IPOs, particularly in the consumer, healthcare, and real estate sectors, according to global consultancy Deloitte. As of yesterday, November 19, Thailand conducted 29 IPOs in the year,…
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Sky’s the limit: RTAF aims to reach new heights with space plans
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is looking to take Thailand’s defences to new heights. Plans are underway for a bold rebranding as the Royal Thai Air Force and Space alongside the creation of a new unit aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s air and space interests. This strategic move, announced by RTAF spokesperson Air Marshal Prapas Sornjaidee yesterday, November 19, highlights Thailand’s…
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Pattaya revamps park to oust venomous visitors near residence
Residents near Jeh Madi Mansion, close to Soi Sukhumvit 28 and Bangkok Hospital Pattaya, raised the alarm over unwelcome slithery neighbours – venomous creatures lurking a little too close to home. In response, Deputy Mayor Manot Nongyai, flanked by local council members and city officials, launched an emergency renovation project yesterday, November 19, clearing out the public area to improve…
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Cheers to safety: Thailand’s plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled crashes
Thailand is ringing in the new year with a determined focus on safety, as Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin reveals a no-nonsense plan to tackle alcohol-fuelled road accidents during the festive celebrations. With the Christmas and new year season notorious for its spike in drink-related mishaps, the Alcoholic Beverage Control Committee has rolled out four game-changing measures to keep partygoers…
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Thai lottery draw dates changed to accomodate new year holidays
The Thai Government Lottery Office (GLO) announced a change in the schedule for two upcoming lottery draws. The draw initially set for December 30, will now take place on January 2, 2025, due to the new year festivities. This adjustment allows for a more suitable timing, providing 17 days for the sale of lottery tickets for this particular draw. The…
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Chiang Mai swept up: Chinese investors leave locals concerned
Residents in Chiang Mai have raised concerns about the future after Chinese investors continue to sweep up real estate in the largest city of northern Thailand. Locals are speaking out against what they see as an increasing domination by Chinese investors swooping in to purchase property en masse, fundamentally altering neighbourhoods and threatening the city’s cultural identity and economic autonomy.…
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Sisaket holds vibrant cultural celebration for 242nd anniversary
Over 5,000 people from four ethnic groups—Suay, Lao, Yer, and Khmer—gathered to celebrate the 242nd anniversary of Sisaket province. The event, held yesterday, November 19, at the Kopura area within the King Rama IX Park in Mueang Sisaket district, was a homage to the province’s rich history and the ancestors who laid its foundations. The celebration, led by Anupong Suksamnit,…
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Thai court delivers justice: Cyanide serial killer sentenced to death
The Criminal Court of Thailand delivered a nail-biting verdict today, sentencing the notorious cyanide serial killer to death for her chilling role in the murder of 14 innocent people. The Criminal Court wasn’t pulling any punches, as her accomplices didn’t get off lightly either. The cyanide serial killer’s ex-police officer husband, Police Lieutenant Colonel Witun Rangsiwutthaphon, has been given a…
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Grenade attack at Songkhla construction site injures three
A construction workers’ camp was attacked with an M79 grenade launcher, leading to a fire and injuring three people. The assault occurred in a private company’s restricted area in Thepha district, Songkhla, early this morning. Police are actively investigating the incident. The unexpected attack took place at approximately 6am, targeting the workers’ accommodation within a large Guan Yin statue construction…
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Justice minister says ‘no special treatment’ for Yingluck
Former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s potential return to Thailand sparked a national debate after her brother, former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, hinted at a possible homecoming around next year’s Songkran festival. Speaking in an interview with Nikkei Asia, Thaksin stated his sister could be coming home. “I don’t think there’s any issue preventing her from coming home. I believe she…
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GLO hosts Chiang Mai lottery draw to boost transparency
The Government Lottery Office (GLO) of Thailand is set to conduct a lottery draw in Chiang Mai province on December 1. This initiative aims to enhance transparency in the lottery process and methods, offering the public an opportunity to witness the proceedings firsthand. The lottery draw, set for December 1, will take place at the Chiang Mai International Exhibition and…
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Sunbathing crocodile makes snappy getaway into Ping River
A 2-metre crocodile was spotted sunbathing at a sand quarry in Chiang Mai before making a quick escape into the Ping River. Witnesses believe the reptile might have escaped from a farm during recent floods. Concerns for public safety have prompted calls for its immediate capture. Reports have emerged from Chiang Mai about an unexpected encounter with a crocodile at…
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