Thailand News
Thailand news, politics, business, crime, and lifestyle—get breaking updates from Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, and beyond. Stay informed on Thai society, economy, tourism, and expat life with The Thaiger.
-
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?...
-
Spooky film screened at Nakhon Ratchasima cemetery
A spooky film screening was held at the Chinese cemetery in Nakhon Ratchasima, with hundreds of empty chairs set up for unclaimed spirits. The event, organised by the Sawang Metta Thammasathan Foundation, took place at a cemetery home to 2,800 graves. After a ceremony for the unclaimed deceased, the foundation arranged an open-air film screening from June 2 to June…
-
Khon Kaen Zoo opens for wild mushroom harvesting, aids economy
Khon Kaen Zoo opened its Khao Suan Kwang area to villagers for wild mushroom harvesting, aiming to boost the local economy through sales to tourists and family consumption. The early arrival of the rainy season this year has led to a noticeable increase in rainfall across the Khao Suan Kwang mountain area, resulting in lush greenery and a significant growth…
-
Thai leaders dodge meeting with UN human rights commissioner
Thailand’s leaders, including the prime minister and foreign minister, sidestepped a meeting with the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, during his Bangkok visit on June 5 and 6. Instead of rolling out the red carpet, Thailand’s leaders turned a blind eye, reducing Türk’s visit to a mere stopover, unlike his official engagements in Malaysia where he…
-
Motorcycle crash into parked truck kills two in Ang Thong
A tragic accident resulted in the death of a young couple when their motorcycle collided with the rear of a parked truck in Ang Thong. The truck had run out of fuel, and the driver had left to purchase more when the incident occurred. At 5.30pm yesterday, police from Ang Thong City Police Station were alerted to the fatal accident…
-
Infant’s body found in plastic bag at Phitsanulok bus stop
A seven month old infant’s body was discovered in a plastic bag near a bus stop in Phitsanulok, prompting an investigation into a possible premature birth or intentional abortion. The Thai authorities were alerted at 5pm yesterday by Min Misinth, an investigator at the Phitsanulok City Police Station, who received reports of a baby’s body found discarded next to the…
-
Elderly man 20 million baht in debt after employer’s deception
An elderly man faces destitution after being deceived by his employer, leading to a debt of 20 million baht and the seizure of his elderly pension, leaving him with no money for food. A member of the local administrative organisation, 46 year old Phongchai reported that a local had been entangled in a bankruptcy case, resulting in a debt of…
-
Bangkok Airways, SO/ Maldives eye growth in tourism boom
Bangkok Airways and luxury resort SO/ Maldives are optimistic about expanding their business in the Maldives, a popular destination among Thai tourists. The Maldives achieved a significant milestone in tourism last year, welcoming over 1.8 million visitors, the highest number in a year, according to the Maldives Marketing and Public Relations Corp. Bangkok Airways resumed flights to the Maldives in…
-
Baht hits two-week high but faces long-term depreciation risks
The Thai baht surged to a two-week high yesterday, surpassing 36.5 to the dollar, marking a strong short-term gain. However, Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group (KKP) has issued a cautionary note about the potential depreciation of the currency, attributing it to persistent structural issues in Thailand’s economy. Yesterday, the baht led gains among Asian currencies, appreciating by 0.3% to its highest…
-
Teenage killer’s violent rape and Satanic belief uncovered (video)
A Thai mother revealed that the teenage killer who recently murdered his girlfriend in Pathum Thani had previously assaulted and raped her daughter when she was 13 years old and harboured a bizarre belief in Satan. The 18 year old murderer, Thanakorn, also known as Sand, was arrested yesterday, June 6, after killing his 18 year old girlfriend, Waranya, also…
-
Thailand addresses labour shortage and illegal workers
Thailand’s National Committee on Migrant Workers Management approved three strategic guidelines to address the country’s labour shortage and tackle the issue of illegal workers. A proposal for these new guidelines is expected to be forwarded to the cabinet for approval soon. Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn announced after a committee meeting this Wednesday, commenting that the ongoing political conflict in Myanmar…
-
Red Bull tycoon files lawsuit for 50 million baht over bribery claims
Red Bull energy drink magnate Chalerm Yoovidhya launched another defamation lawsuit, this time targeting a news outlet and four individuals, seeking 50 million baht in damages over bribery allegations. Chalerm disputes claims made by Police Colonel Wirut Sirisawatibutr, a former police officer turned columnist for Sueb Jark Khao. The allegations suggest the tycoon paid a 300-million-baht bribe to shield his…
-
Thailand aims to amend laws to boost arms exports
The Thai Defence Ministry is moving to amend four key laws to facilitate arms exports, namely domestically produced weapons, aiming to bolster Thailand’s defence industry. During a recent meeting, Defence Ministry officials, including General Somsak Rungsita and Vice Defence Minister Jumnong Chaimongkol, discussed the necessary changes to national security legislation. High-ranking representatives from the Defence Industry Department, the Defence Technology…
-
Thailand Video News | Foreign income to be taxed in Thailand, The Thai government will be keeping a close eye on Jurassic World production
In this Thailand video news, Alex and Jay delve into the stories from across the country. Beginning with Thailand will tax residents on all foreign income starting in 2024, regardless of whether it is brought into the country. Platforms earning over 1 billion baht must report their income sources. A viral video of a woman scalding her pregnant Siberian Husky…
-
The hidden cardiac risks of energy drinks
Energy drinks have become a staple in the diets of many individuals, particularly among younger demographics. Promoted as a quick solution for boosting energy and enhancing performance, these beverages have captured a significant market share globally. However, beneath the flashy marketing and promises of increased alertness, there lies a potential danger that has raised concerns among health professionals and researchers…
-
Deadly debt dispute: Burmese man shot at Khon Kaen hospital
A gunman shot dead a Burmese man last night while the victim was receiving treatment and awaiting surgery at Khon Kaen Hospital in Isaan. The suspected motive behind the murder is believed to be related to debt. The fatal shooting occurred in a male ward on the fifth floor of a building at Khon Kaen Hospital around 11pm last night,…
-
EC to clarify court ruling impact before Sunday Senate elections
The Election Commission (EC) is set to clarify the implications of a Constitutional Court ruling, which agreed to examine a petition challenging four contentious provisions in the Senate election law. This comes just before district-level voting is scheduled nationwide for Sunday. The court declined to issue an injunction, indicating no severe consequences were anticipated if the Senate election proceeded. The…
-
Mystery surrounds death of woman found naked off Koh Si Chang
A Thai man took to social media to share information on the mysterious death of his sister, whose naked body was found in the sea off Koh Si Chang island in Chon Buri province on May 31. The deceased woman’s younger brother, Rittikiat Pisoot, shared a timeline of his sister, Preyaporn “Da” Niyomkarn, and her solo trip to Koh Si…
-
Royal birthday bash amidst political firestorm
Defence Minister Sutin Klungsaeng has directed the military to orchestrate grand celebrations for His Majesty the King’s 6th Cycle Birthday Anniversary next month, even as tensions escalate over a controversial political amnesty bill. Preparations for the King’s 72nd birthday on July 28 are underway while Parliament debates whether to include Article 112 in the amnesty bill, which imposes up to…
-
Bangkok governor probes overpriced gym equipment purchases
Bangkok governor Chadchart Sittipunt acknowledged discovering unusual procurement patterns in gym equipment purchases for two sports centres managed by City Hall, with one treadmill costing as much as a car. Chadchart addressed public concerns yesterday regarding the procurement for the sports centres at Waree Phirom Park in Khlong Sam Wa district and Wachirabenchathat Park (Suan Rod Fai) in Chatuchak district.…
-
Pathum Thani: Severed hands of teen girl found in plastic bag
In a gruesome discovery, police yesterday found what they believe to be the severed hands of an 18 year old girl, allegedly murdered by her boyfriend earlier this week. The chilling case began to unfold on Wednesday when Ranya Saensuriwong’s body was discovered beneath an elevated expressway in the Mueang district of Pathum Thani. Wrapped in a bedsheet and bound…
-
Thai cop’s samurai swordplay in love triangle scandal
A Thai police officer in the central province of Nakhon Pathom has been accused of attacking his wife with a samurai sword on May 31 after she discovered his clandestine affairs with several women. The victim, identified as 37 year old Karn, sought help from social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet after filing a complaint against her husband at Phokaew…
-
How Thailand’s consumer behaviour is being affected by cryptocurrency
Many investors believe that cryptocurrencies have significant potential as investment assets. To cater to this interest, financial products related to traditional asset classes have been introduced in various countries. These products include futures contracts, exchange-traded funds (or more commonly referred to as ETFs), and micro futures contracts, which allow for smaller-scale investments. Furthermore, several major banks now offer their clients…
-
Sole search: Ultramarathoner sets 1,000km run record in 12 days
Ultramarathoner Natalie Dau achieved a remarkable feat by completing a 1,000-kilometre solo run across Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore in just 12 days. Despite enduring scorching heat, melted shoes, and a hip injury, Dau persevered, crossing the finish line at The Westin Singapore yesterday to an adoring home crowd of over 100 supporters. The 52 year old runner’s journey began in…
-
Extend-a-signal: NT tunes in for spectrum band extension
National Telecom (NT) is poised to seek an extension from the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to continue utilising three spectrum bands beyond their expiration in September 2025. The requested extension, spanning 90 days, aims to ensure a seamless transition for NT’s current customers to alternative bands. NT intends to maintain operations on the 850MHz, 2100MHz, and 2300MHz bands,…
-
Bonding issues: Political turmoil shakes Thai investor confidence
Thailand’s escalating political risks are making foreign investors hesitant about the nation’s bond market, despite a cautious return in May after a six-month break. In May, global funds bought US$511 million worth of Thai bonds, a notable difference compared to larger acquisitions in Indonesia, India, and South Korea. Comparative indicators of foreign investment show Thailand lagging behind its regional counterparts.…
-
Australian man arrested in Pattaya for multiple offenses and mafia connections
Immigration Bureau officers arrested an Australian man in Pattaya for multiple offences in his home country and his connection to a foreign mafia gang in Phuket. Officers arrested the Australian, identified only as Grey, at his luxury home in Pattaya after discovering his connection to the mafia gang. However, officers did not provide full details about the group. The Immigration…
-
Gambling warning: Thai PM scores with free euro 2024 coverage
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin plans to provide free live coverage of Euro 2024 but warns the Thai public against gambling. Personally cheering for the English squad, he aims that the live coverage would stimulate businesses in local restaurants and bars. PM Srettha today, June 6, held a press conference at the Government House, expressing his satisfaction with sponsorship support in…
-
Peso power play: CIMB targets record 75 billion in loans for 2024
CIMB Bank Philippines, a subsidiary of Malaysia’s CIMB Group Holdings Bhd, announced an ambitious lending target of over 75 billion pesos (US$1.28 billion) to Filipino customers this year. This represents a 23% increase compared to 2023, according to the bank’s chief executive officer. Chief Executive Officer Vijay Manoharan disclosed the bank’s plans during a press conference, stating that CIMB Bank…
-
Rocking history: Ancient artefact unearths Srivijaya secrets
Archaeologists revealed that an ancient sandstone artefact discovered in some temple grounds dates back to the era of the Srivijaya Kingdom. A history tour group stumbled upon the sandstone while visiting Wat Palilaik in tambon Lamet. The group quickly informed Chaiya District Chief Chaowalit Rodjanarat about their find, suspecting the artefact to be over 1,000 years old due to its…
-
Thai reggae band member loses 8 million baht to contractor scam
A prominent member of the popular Thai reggae band Magenta reported being defrauded by a contractor during the construction of his house, resulting in financial losses of nearly 8 million baht. A member of the band, 38 year old Kittipong Watthanarach, and his 30 year old wife, Artitiya Anthrabut, alleged that a well-known contractor in Khon Kaen scammed them. They…
Don't forget to check out some other things to do in Thailand - get help starting a business or finding a job in Thailand, buy Thailand property, rent a yacht or book a medical procedure worldwide.