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 9 most common health issues covered by insurance for expats in Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for expats due to its affordable lifestyle and excellent healthcare system. However, settling in a new country often brings health concerns. To ensure you’re covered for the most common medical needs, understanding what expat health...
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Thailand nears historic approval of marriage equality bill
Thailand is on the verge of making history by passing the Marriage Equality Bill, which is set to undergo its final round of Senate voting this month. If approved, the bill could come into effect by the end of the year, making Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to endorse gender equality in marriage. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin assured…
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Police raid Nasa club in Chon Buri, arrest 9, find 105 drug users
Police conducted a significant raid on the Nasa club in Mueang, Chon Buri at 1.30pm yesterday. More than 150 officers from various agencies participated in the operation, aiming to curb illegal activities at the venue. Upon their arrival, officers encountered a bustling crowd enjoying the nightlife. As the police presence became evident, many patrons attempted to flee and dispose of…
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Excise officers intercept smuggled cigarettes and beer in Chon Buri
Excise Officers at Region 2, along with Phanat Nikhom police intercepted a white pickup truck suspected of smuggling cigarettes and beer into Phanat Nikhom, Chon Bur, at noon on June 14,. The police had been investigating reports of contraband transportation in the area and successfully tracked down the vehicle, which was owned by a private company. Upon inspection, officers seized…
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Survey reveals pollution as Thai citizens’ biggest worry
A survey by Marketbuzzz reveals that Thais have declared environmental issues such as pollution as their top public concern for 2024, with 30% of respondents prioritising it, closely followed by rising prices at 28%. This annual survey, running since 2019, highlights the growing unease about environmental issues among Thais, who also rank other concerns like corruption, healthcare, traffic congestion, crime,…
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Macau casino company eyes Thailand for major investment
In a move that could revolutionise Thailand’s entertainment landscape, MGM China Holdings is exploring new investment opportunities, including a potential entertainment complex in Thailand. This was revealed after a high-level meeting between TAT governor Thapanee Kiatphaibool and Pansy Ho, chairperson of MGM China Holdings, on Thursday. TAT governor Thapanee highlighted that MGM China is keen to promote Macau tourism to…
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Pheu Thai leader Paetongtarn vows to reclaim Bangkok seats
Pheu Thai’s leader Paetongtarn Shinawatra has stepped into the ring with a new role, aiming to revive the party’s fortunes in Bangkok after last year’s crushing defeat by the Move Forward Party (MFP). Paetongtarn signed an order on Thursday to establish a panel dedicated to crafting political strategies, overseeing MPs and Bangkok Metropolitan councillors, and providing them with crucial advice.…
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Pattaya mayor’s big bet on Irish tourism
In a significant push to boost international tourism, Mayor Poramet Ngampichet welcomed H.E. Patrick Bourne, Ambassador of Ireland to the Kingdom of Thailand, and his delegation. The high-profile visit centred on strengthening tourism ties and introducing measures to support Irish tourists in Pattaya. During the meeting, Mayor Poramet expressed his delight and honour in hosting Irish ambassador Bourne. Poramet emphasised…
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NHRC urges Thai govt to stop deportation of Vietnamese activist
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has urged the Thai government to halt plans to deport Vietnamese activist Y Quynh Bdap, expressing concerns for his safety. Authorities arrested 32 year old Y Quynh Bdap in Bangkok this week. He is a prominent figure within the Montagnard ethnic group from Vietnam’s Central Highlands and co-founded Montagnards Stand for Justice, an organisation…
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Crisis in Thai industry: Are major collapses on the horizon?
Thailand’s industrial sector is teetering on the brink of a crisis as rapid technological advancements, fierce competition from China, and a planned hike in the daily minimum wage threaten to trigger a massive collapse. With two Japanese car giants, Subaru and Suzuki, set to shut down their manufacturing operations in Thailand, the situation is dire. KKP Research reports that 1,700…
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Thailand free of human bird flu cases since 2006
Thailand remains free of human bird flu cases, according to the Department of Disease Control (DDC). Authorities urge travellers from H5N2 outbreak areas to self-monitor for respiratory symptoms within 14 days of arrival and seek medical attention if symptoms arise. Travellers entering the country have been advised to remain vigilant for irregular respiratory symptoms. Immediate medical consultation is recommended if…
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Sustainability needs more than ESG compliance, says expert
Achieving sustainability requires more than just adherence to environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, according to Rajeev Peshawaria, CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre. Speaking at a conference in Bangkok this week, Peshawaria emphasised that a genuine desire for a better future is crucial. The ESG framework, which has been around since the 1990s, is proving effective in some areas but…
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Southeast Asia leads in anti-corruption initiatives with public support
Southeast Asia has emerged as a leading example of public initiatives tackling corruption, as highlighted by legal experts and academics at the Anti-Corruption Innovations in Southeast Asia conference recently held in Bangkok. The conference, which took place on June 7, aimed to share perspectives on innovative strategies to promote integrity and good governance across the region. Experts underscored the importance…
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MFP’s support for Pheu Thai sparks coalition speculation
The Move Forward Party (MFP) has recently shown a surprisingly empathetic stance towards the ruling Pheu Thai Party, sparking accusations that their previous antagonism may have been an act. Observers have noted two key developments suggesting a possible reconciliation between the two largest parties, following Pheu Thai’s earlier decision to abandon a post-election promise to form a government with MFP.…
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PM Srettha dismisses resignation rumours amid court case
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin dismissed rumours of his potential resignation or dissolution of the House of Representatives before the Constitutional Court rules on a case that could see him removed from office. The controversy stems from his appointment of Pichit Chuenban as a PM’s Office minister. “I never think about resignation or a House dissolution. Let the legal procedure take…
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Beach vendor arrested in Pattaya for illegal alcohol sales
Police in Pattaya have arrested a beach vendor for illegally selling alcoholic beverages and resisting officials. The arrest took place in the early hours yesterday, June 14, at Pattaya Beach, following a prior incident where city officials tried to apprehend vendors violating regulations by selling alcohol and renting out beach equipment without proper licences. The incident began at 2.36am, when…
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eCommerce growth and digital payment trends in Thailand
As the second-largest digital economy in Southeast Asia, Thailand is seeing a significant shift in consumer purchasing habits due to these technological advancements, including the increasing adoption of digital payment methods. This article explores the current state of eCommerce, popular digital payment methods, and the opportunities they present for digital marketers. eCommerce Growth in Thailand Thailand’s eCommerce sector is thriving,…
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Kalasin villagers launch rockets in ceremony to predict rainfall
Residents of Kalasin recently held a traditional ceremony to honour sacred spirits at the ancient site of Non Ban Kao, in Ban Tum Village, Yang Talat District. The event featured the launching of rockets to predict rainfall, a practice deeply rooted in the region’s cultural heritage. A member of the Bua Ban Subdistrict Municipality, Yada Phunasi, along with two village…
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World Tourism Council: Innovative strategies to combat overtourism
Tourism is in crisis as overtourism sparks protests and unrest across the globe. The World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has a plan to turn the tide, urging cooperation between businesses and local communities to manage the influx of visitors. As travel demand skyrockets post-pandemic, locals in several countries are pushing back, calling for measures to control the surge of…
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Cyber police arrest online loan shark charging 3% daily interest
Cyber police raided and arrested an online loan shark charging exorbitant interest rates of 3% per day, threatening, shaming, and destroying the property of those who failed to pay. They seized numerous items of evidence. The operation took place yesterday under the command of Cyber Police Chief, Worawat Watnakornbancha who instructed relevant authorities to execute a search warrant issued by…
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Thai woman seeks help after brutal assault by ex-boyfriend
A Thai woman in the eastern province of Rayong is seeking help after repeated harassment and a recent physical assault by her ex-boyfriend at her workplace, which left her with severe injuries. The 31 year old victim turned to social media influencer Guntouch “Gun” Pongpaiboonwet after officers from the Khao Chamao Police Station ignored her case. She was left living…
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Motorcyclist dies in collision with passenger van in Pattaya
A fatal collision between a motorcycle and a van in Pattaya this morning resulted in the death of the motorcyclist. The Thai police are currently investigating the incident. At approximately 4.36am, June 14 the police received a report of a motorcycle crashing into a van at an intersection in Nong Prue Subdistrict, Bang Lamung District, Chon Buri Province. Officers, along…
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AirAsia unveils direct flights from Bali to Phuket and Malaysia
Indonesia AirAsia has launched two international routes from Denpasar, Bali, to Phuket in Thailand, and Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia. This strategic move aims to boost Indonesia’s tourism by enhancing air connectivity. Veranita Yosephine Sinaga, President Director of Indonesia AirAsia, stated that these new routes are a significant step in the airline’s commitment to expanding its air network and strengthening Indonesia’s…
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Phuket launches workshops to curb rising motorcycle fatalities
Phuket authorities initiated a series of workshops yesterday to address the increasing number of fatalities and injuries caused by road accidents, particularly focusing on motorcycle riders. The launch event took place at a hotel in Ratsada, with a significant turnout of district and community leaders. Phuket Vice Governor Sattha Thongkam introduced the initiative, part of the District Drive Project, aimed…
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Pattaya’s peacekeepers tackle homelessness with beachfront initiative
Efforts to address homelessness in Pattaya took a significant step forward. The Peacekeeping Division of Pattaya’s Social Welfare Office, in collaboration with Chon Buri Provincial Homeless Protection Centre, launched a targeted initiative to assist homeless individuals in the Pattaya Beach area. This joint effort zeroed in on Soi 13/4, the local market vicinity, and Wat Chai Mongkol Temple in South…
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Ko Samui waterfall rescue: Italian’s ordeal ends with a splash
Thai rescuers spent over three hours rescuing an Italian man who suffered injuries to his hips and legs in an accident at Na Mueang Waterfall 2 in Koh Samui, an island in the southern province of Surat Thani. Koh Samui Tourist Police were alerted to an accident at Na Mueang Waterfall 2 yesterday, June 13. An Italian man, later identified…
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US Senator blasts Thai government over MFP threat
US Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin voiced his alarm over the potential dissolution of Thailand’s Move Forward Party (MFP). He issued a stern warning to the Thai government, urging them to uphold democratic principles and avoid stifling political opposition. Taking to social media, Cardin expressed his concerns. “I am deeply concerned by developments in Thailand on the potential…
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Revved up: Thai used car market set to accelerate
The used car market in Thailand is poised for growth in the latter half of this year as financial service providers may ease lending criteria for prospective buyers. According to the President of the Association of Used Cars, Vichai Suwanasilar, this development follows discussions about stringent loan conditions. “We talked about lending with banks and finance companies, which affects the…
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Third sea turtle rescued from fishing nets in Phuket this week
Another sea turtle, entangled in discarded fishing nets, washed ashore in Phuket yesterday. The young turtle was found by lifeguards on Kalim Beach, north of Patong, amidst a mix of debris. Patong Surf Life Saving Club lifeguards successfully freed the turtle by cutting away the netting before notifying officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). DMCR officials…
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Thailand assists tourists stranded by tour operator’s bankruptcy
The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has committed to supporting tourists stranded due to the bankruptcy of major German tour operator FTI Group, while also collaborating with government officials to ensure hotels are compensated by the company. Siripakorn Cheawsamoot, TAT Deputy Governor for Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and the Americas, reported that there have been no reports of stranded…
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Hook, line, and sinker: Two men nabbed for illegal fishing
Two men have been apprehended for illegal fishing within a restricted zone off Cape Panwa, an area designated as a sanctuary for aquatic animals and plants. Officials from the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) stationed at the Phuket Marine Resources Conservation Center spotted the men fishing in the protected waters on Wednesday afternoon, June 12. According to a…
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