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

    Where to shop for sports gear at Jungceylon Phuket

    Phuket might be known for its beaches and nightlife, but the island also has a thriving fitness culture. From Muay Thai gyms to beach runs at sunrise, staying active is part of daily life for many who live here (as...

  • Labubu yantra tattoos capture spiritual community’s interest | Thaiger

    Labubu yantra tattoos capture spiritual community’s interest

    The ongoing trend for Popmart’s Labubu art toys has now expanded beyond fashion enthusiasts to also captivate the spiritual community. The Labu Bu Phoksap Yantra, a new tattoo design, originated from AjarnAmsri Ohromyan’s Facebook post, where he shared images of the Yantra inspired by the popular Labubu character. AjarnAmsri explained that the yantra’s creation stemmed from his daughter’s love for…

  • Thai PM shifts gears: Thailand aims to race onto F1 calendar | Thaiger

    Thai PM shifts gears: Thailand aims to race onto F1 calendar

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin seized the opportunity to explore the potential for Thailand to host a Formula One race in 2027 or 2028 during his official visit to Italy from May 17 to 21. Visiting the Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari circuit in Imola, near Bologna for the Emilio-Romagna Grand Prix this past weekend, he engaged in discussions with the F1 Group…

  • Thailand’s future depends on nurturing innovative talent | Thaiger

    Thailand’s future depends on nurturing innovative talent

    Thailand’s future hinges on becoming a dynamic centre of innovative talent and progress. The pivotal element in realising this vision lies in securing the right talent—those who bring ideas to life and spearhead transformative change. Throughout a lengthy career, it has been evident that exceptional talents do not merely meet expectations, they redefine them. Good performers play their roles well,…

  • Health risks associated with getting a tattoo | Thaiger

    Health risks associated with getting a tattoo

    Tattoos have transitioned from ancient cultural rites to mainstream expressions of individuality. Their popularity spans continents and demographics, yet this surge in acceptance has not been without its concerns. As more individuals opt to decorate their bodies with intricate designs and meaningful symbols, an essential question arises: Are tattoos safe? Recent studies and medical reports suggest that while tattoos can…

  • Thai woman blames police drug search in vagina for miscarriage | Thaiger

    Thai woman blames police drug search in vagina for miscarriage

    A Thai woman sued the narcotics suppression unit of Samut Prakarn Provincial Police, accusing officers of causing her miscarriage by searching for drugs in her vagina. The 30 year old woman, Orranee Ruangphueng, accompanied by her lawyer, filed a complaint against the Samut Prakarn Provincial Police’s narcotics suppression unit at Bang Bor Police Station on May 18. Orranee claimed she…

  • Gamecaster Fat Cat takes own life after spending 2.6 million baht | Thaiger

    Gamecaster Fat Cat takes own life after spending 2.6 million baht

    A famous 21 year old gamecaster, known as Fat Cat, tragically ended his life after spending over 2.6 million baht on his girlfriend, only to be betrayed. His sister revealed the heart-wrenching details, prompting widespread online criticism. The police have officially announced the results of their investigation into the suicide of the gamecaster known as Fat Cat. This announcement has…

  • Iranian president, foreign minister killed in tragic helicopter crash | Thaiger

    Iranian president, foreign minister killed in tragic helicopter crash

    Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi and his foreign minister were tragically killed in a helicopter crash amidst mountainous terrain and icy weather, as reported by state media. The wreckage was located in East Azerbaijan province after search teams mobilized. State TV initially provided no immediate cause for yesterday’s crash in Iran’s East Azerbaijan province. Among the casualties was 60 year old…

  • MNEs taxed to curb profit sharing, 12 billion baht revenue expected | Thaiger

    MNEs taxed to curb profit sharing, 12 billion baht revenue expected

    The Revenue Department anticipates the implementation of draft legislation aimed at taxing multinational enterprises (MNEs) to curb profit shifting to low-tax jurisdictions by 2025. This move is expected to enhance tax revenue by 12 billion baht annually. Director-General Kulaya Tantitemit revealed that the draft legislation incorporates the Top-up Tax Act, which aligns with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development’s…

  • Man murders drinking friend with concrete block after argument | Thaiger

    Man murders drinking friend with concrete block after argument

    A tragic murder unfolded in Surin province when 67 year old man allegedly killed his 58 year old drinking companion by hitting him with a concrete block and then dragging his body with a motorcycle before dumping it in a canal. The incident occurred at approximately 6.05pm yesterday. Police reported that the suspect Thip and the victim Wantong were drinking…

  • Thai ladyboy loses cash and phone after one-night stand | Thaiger

    Thai ladyboy loses cash and phone after one-night stand

    A Thai ladyboy lost 2,000 baht in cash and a mobile phone after a one-night stand with a Thai man at a resort in Pattaya. A friend of the transgender victim took to social media to seek help, posting a picture of the thief’s car and urging netizens to help identify the suspect. “Please help. My friend went to a resort…

  • Study validates that plant-based diets reduces risk of heart issues and cancer | Thaiger

    Study validates that plant-based diets reduces risk of heart issues and cancer

    Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and cancer are the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, making the search for effective preventive measures a high priority. A growing body of research suggests that plant-based diets, which exclude or minimise animal products, may offer significant health benefits, particularly in reducing the risks associated with these diseases. This article delves into a comprehensive umbrella…

  • Pattaya’s electric scooter debate sparks charged safety talks | Thaiger

    Pattaya’s electric scooter debate sparks charged safety talks

    Electric scooters have become a hot topic in Pattaya, sparking discussions among various agencies and officials about their legality and safety. The legal status of these scooters is not straightforward in Thailand, with regulations varying by region. In cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, the rules can differ significantly. The primary concern lies in the absence of firm national rules…

  • BREAKING NEWS: 1,882 new COVID-19 hospitalisations and 16 deaths in the last week | Thaiger

    BREAKING NEWS: 1,882 new COVID-19 hospitalisations and 16 deaths in the last week

    Thailand is experiencing a significant but underreported surge in COVID-19 cases, with both public and private hospitals feeling the strain as outpatient and inpatient admissions rise. This trend mirrors situations in other countries like Singapore, the UK, the US, Australia, Canada, and France, driven by new variants from the KP lineage (e.g., KP.1, KP.2, KP.3). Governments worldwide, including Thailand, are…

  • Thailand Video News | Beloved Brit found mysteriously dead in hotel room, Rising sea levels lead to considerations to move capital from Bangkok | Thaiger

    Thailand Video News | Beloved Brit found mysteriously dead in hotel room, Rising sea levels lead to considerations to move capital from Bangkok

    In this Thailand video news, Alex and Jay cover the stories from across the country. Beginning with the tragedy, Simon Brown, a 47-year-old from South Wales, was found dead in his hotel room, leaving his family and friends in shock as they face the arduous process of repatriating his body. Meanwhile, in Patong, the accidental death of five-year-old Nbaa Bahnasi…

  • Pakistani and Thai wife arrested for murder of Indian in Songkhla | Thaiger

    Pakistani and Thai wife arrested for murder of Indian in Songkhla

    Police arrested a Pakistani man and his Thai wife for the murder of an Indian man in the southern province of Songkhla. The motive is suspected to be a business conflict. The dead body of a foreign man was found on the roadside in Songkhla on May 15 with two stab wounds and a gunshot wound. Police later identified the…

  • Thailand faces cannabis reclassification deadline | Thaiger

    Thailand faces cannabis reclassification deadline

    The Government of Thailand faces a rapidly approaching reclassification deadline set by cannabis advocacy groups. Cannabis Future Network, a prominent pro-cannabis group, stated last week that whether the Public Health Ministry intends to fully or partially reclassify cannabis, the decision must be backed by scientific evidence. The group has given the government 15 days to substantiate its stance. Reclassifying cannabis…

  • Over 31,000 apply for Thai Senate as 5-year term ends | Thaiger

    Over 31,000 apply for Thai Senate as 5-year term ends

    Over 31,000 people have sought applications to become senators in the Thai Senate as the five-year term of 250 senators, installed by the defunct National Council for Peace and Order, concluded yesterday. The Election Commission (EC) anticipates approximately 100,000 applications for the 200 available senate positions. Thai nationals born in Thailand, who are at least 40 years old and possess…

  • Thailand hosts first-ever ‘Cops Combat’ martial arts contest | Thaiger

    Thailand hosts first-ever ‘Cops Combat’ martial arts contest

    Thailand is set to host its first-ever mixed martial arts event for police officers only, targetted for May 28 at Rajadamnern Stadium, the appropriately titles Cops Combat event will see police officers from various parts of the country competing in a combat sports tournament. The competition is open to both male and female officers of all ranks and ages, divided…

  • Policewoman arrested for role in kidnapping of Indonesian man | Thaiger

    Policewoman arrested for role in kidnapping of Indonesian man

    Police arrested a policewoman on May 19 for her alleged involvement in the kidnapping and ransom of an Indonesian man in the southern province of Phatthalung on May 11. The 29 year old Indonesian victim, Syawana, was rescued from a house in Phatthalung province on May 15 by officers from the Mueang Phatthalung Police Station after he was kidnapped and…

  • Brief bandit: thief strips down to underwear, swipes stash of briefs | Thaiger

    Brief bandit: thief strips down to underwear, swipes stash of briefs

    An underwear thief, dressed only in his undies, drove to a house and stole a collection of underwear, later claiming it was the result of a dare. The incident took place on the morning of May 18 in Ban Pa Tueng Ngam, Pa O Don Chai sub-district, Mueng district, Chiang Rai. The homeowner, 44 year old Somphop shared CCTV footage…

  • 15-metre Tao Wirupaksa statue consecrated at Wat Nong Tabak | Thaiger

    15-metre Tao Wirupaksa statue consecrated at Wat Nong Tabak

    A grand ceremony was held at Wat Nong Tabak in Rayong Province to consecrate the only 15-metre-tall statue of Tao Wirupaksa in the area. The event took place yesterday at 5pm, drawing monks from various temples in Rayong and a large number of devotees. The ceremonial ground was adorned with beautifully arranged fruit trays, garlands, and offerings. Devotees lit incense…

  • Bangkok cops uncover ketamine and cocaine in drug bust | Thaiger

    Bangkok cops uncover ketamine and cocaine in drug bust

    Police officers from Thonglor Police Station uncovered a stash of illicit drugs, including ketamine and cocaine-laced e-cigarette pods, at a condominium in Khlong Toei in a drug bust following a loud argument between a couple. Police officers from Thonglor Police Station responded to a disturbance report in the late hours of yesterday at a condominium in Khlong Toei. Upon arrival,…

  • Police arrest man for selling psilocybin mushrooms in Bangkok | Thaiger

    Police arrest man for selling psilocybin mushrooms in Bangkok

    Police apprehended a 27 year old man in the Bang Chan Subdistrict, Khlong Sam Wa District, Bangkok, on charges of illegal possession and attempted distribution of psilocybin mushrooms, a Category 5 narcotic. Police seized 11 items as evidence. The arrest followed a tip-off from an informant who reported that Chitsanupong was cultivating and selling psilocybin mushrooms online and delivering them…

  • Thais support reclassifying marijuana as illegal, NIDA poll | Thaiger

    Thais support reclassifying marijuana as illegal, NIDA poll

    A recent survey by the National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA) poll reveals that a majority of Thais endorse plans to reclassify marijuana as an illegal drug, although opinions on its benefits remain divided. The NIDA conducted the poll from May 14 to May 15, engaging 1,310 individuals aged 15 and over across various educational backgrounds and occupations. Participants were…

  • Woman’s year-long ordeal with recycled SIM card number | Thaiger

    Woman’s year-long ordeal with recycled SIM card number

    A woman experienced a year-long ordeal with strange phone calls after purchasing a SIM card from a shopping mall, leading her to ultimately cancel the number. The calls were traced back to a number written on a school desk. A story shared by the Facebook fan page ผู้บริโภค recounts the troubles faced by a woman who received numerous nuisance calls…

  • Thailand to ratify enforced disappearance convention by June 13 | Thaiger

    Thailand to ratify enforced disappearance convention by June 13

    Thailand is set to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED) by June 13, as announced by the Foreign Affairs Ministry. The ratification marks a significant step in the country’s commitment to human rights. Thailand deposited an Instrument of Ratification for the ICPPED on May 14. The convention will come into effect thirty days…

  • PM backs Phu Kradueng cable car project to boost tourism | Thaiger

    PM backs Phu Kradueng cable car project to boost tourism

    Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin expressed his support for the long-awaited cable car project at Phu Kradueng National Park in Loei. During his official visit to Italy, he met with Leitner, an Italian-based ropeway company, to discuss plans for building electric cable cars. Leitner, which had already contracted with the Thai government for the cable car and ropeway sales, received praise…

  • Voluntary exodus leaves 1% of workforce jobless in first quarter | Thaiger

    Voluntary exodus leaves 1% of workforce jobless in first quarter

    Over 400,000 individuals, representing approximately 1% of the working-age population, were unemployed during the first quarter of the year, with the primary reason being voluntary resignation. Piyanuch Wuttisornon, the Director-General of the National Statistical Office (NSO), announced the findings from a survey on the working-age population. The results indicated a decrease in unemployment numbers for the first quarter compared to…

  • Tiger cub sighting triggers arrest of animal farm owner | Thaiger

    Tiger cub sighting triggers arrest of animal farm owner

    A tiger cub spotted roaming a community in Bang Pakong district has led to the arrest of an animal farm owner in Chachoengsao for allegedly possessing an endangered animal. Atthapol Charoenchansa, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Conservation, directed the DNP’s Yiew Dong task force and 1362 special task force to investigate the incident further. The…

  • NBTC crackdown on online scams: 106 million mobile numbers under scrutiny | Thaiger

    NBTC crackdown on online scams: 106 million mobile numbers under scrutiny

    Scammers in Thailand use SIM cards registered under other people’s names to call potential victims and lure them into sending money or take control of their phones remotely to steal money with banking apps. The NBTC is working with banks and mobile network operators AIS and True to ensure that connected phone SIM cards and mobile banking accounts are registered…