Search Results for: Government of Thailand
- Phuket News
Quake rumbles Thailand but Phuket stands firm
Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat reassured residents and tourists that the island remains untouched by the powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake that rocked Myanmar and sent tremors through Bangkok. The quake, which struck Mandalay on Friday, March 28, was felt across northern Thailand, but Governor Sophon confirmed that Phuket, nearly 2,000 kilometres away, has seen no impact on its infrastructure or tourism industry.…
- Thailand News
No ruff times for rescue dogs: Thailand muzzles donation rumours
The Government of Thailand has slammed false claims circulating online that donations are needed to support military working dogs (K-9s) involved in earthquake rescue efforts. Government officials have made it clear, these highly trained dogs are well cared for, and no public funding is required. Karom Phonphlang, deputy government spokesperson, set the record straight on yesterday, March 30, urging the…
- Thailand News
Thailand hosts 6th BIMSTEC Summit, fostering regional ties
Thailand is set to host the 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Summit from April 3 to 4, according to reports from the Thai government. Government spokesperson Jirayu Houngsub announced yesterday, March 30, that Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is preparing to welcome leaders and representatives from six member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal,…
- Thailand News
Thailand seeks UNESCO status for Loy Krathong festival
Thailand is set to propose the inclusion of the Loy Krathong festival in the Intangible Cultural Heritage list of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, as announced by Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol. The Loy Krathong festival was officially declared a national cultural heritage in 2011. Minister Sudawan…
- Thailand video news
Thailand video news | Pattaya expands CCTV network for smart city development, Phnom Penh tops global air pollution rankings
In Thailand video news, Alex and Jay bring the latest headlines from Thailand and Southeast Asia, covering key developments in security, economy, and politics. In Thailand, Pattaya expands its CCTV network as part of a smart city initiative, while the country’s overcrowded prisons spark renewed calls for reform. The government moves forward with an Entertainment Complex Bill, placing limits on…
- Business News
Thailand’s new gambling bill: What it could mean for the country
The conversation around legalising gambling in Thailand has been simmering for years. Now, it’s starting to reach crunch time. On March 27, cabinet members approved the highly debated Entertainment Complex Bill. It could pave the way for casino resorts to operate legally across the country. For a nation where gambling has been mostly outlawed for decades, this bill could represent…
- Bangkok News
Thailand approves mega entertainment complex bill with casino cap
Thailand is going all-in on entertainment—but not just for gamblers. In a landmark move, the Cabinet has approved the draft Integrated Entertainment Business Act and sent it to the House of Representatives for further consideration. While the inclusion of casinos may raise eyebrows, the government insists they’ll be strictly regulated and capped at just 10% of any entertainment complex. “The…
- Thailand News
Behind bars and under fire: Thailand’s prisons slammed for slow reform
Thailand’s prison system is under fresh international scrutiny, with human rights organisations condemning the country’s slow progress in reforming its outdated and overcrowded facilities. According to last year’s annual report by the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the Union for Civil Liberty (UCL), Thailand’s efforts to adopt alternative measures to incarceration have been insufficient, and critical changes remain…
- Thailand News
MP banned for 10 years over vote-buying in Thailand election
The Supreme Court has ruled that Mukdawan Luengsinil, a Bhumjaithai Party MP representing Nakhon Si Thammarat, is barred from contesting or voting in elections for the next 10 years due to an election law violation. This decision follows a petition from the Election Commission (EC), which found evidence of her involvement in vote-buying during the 2023 General Election in Constituency…
- Thailand News
Thailand offers rewards for reporting e-cigarette sellers and users
To crack down on e-cigarette use, the Thai government has launched a new initiative allowing the public to report sellers and users of e-cigarettes through the Thang Rath mobile app. The scheme offers lucrative rewards for tipsters, with informants standing to pocket 60% of the fines imposed on suspects. Those providing information that leads to an arrest could earn a…
- Thailand News
Thailand bans all corporal punishment, a win for children’s rights
In a groundbreaking move for children’s rights, Thailand has officially outlawed all forms of corporal punishment, including both physical and psychological discipline. The amendment to Section 1567 of the Civil and Commercial Code, announced in the Royal Gazette on Monday, March 24, marks a historic moment for the nation, making Thailand the 68th country worldwide to ban violent discipline in…
- Thailand News
Nepal and Thailand to sign key agreements at BIMSTEC summit
A significant diplomatic development is on the horizon as Nepal and Thailand prepare to sign a series of crucial agreements during Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s visit to Thailand for the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit. The visit, scheduled from April 2 to 4, will not only focus on the summit but…
- Thailand News
Thailand pushes forward 1 trillion-baht Land Bridge project
Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit confirmed that Thailand is continuing with the Land Bridge megaproject, designed to connect the Gulf of Thailand with the Andaman Sea, attracting interest from China and Middle Eastern nations. Suriya, who also serves as a deputy prime minister, announced yesterday, March 24, that the government remains steadfast in advancing the 1 trillion-baht initiative. To attract investors,…
- Thailand News
Thailand battles severe air pollution across 61 provinces
Thailand is still grappling with severe air pollution, with PM2.5 levels exceeding safety standards in 61 provinces. Reports from the Pollution Control Department indicate that areas including Bangkok and the north are experiencing atmospheric conditions similar to a lid, trapping pollutants and causing concentrations to rise. The Air Pollution Solutions Communication Centre of the Pollution Control Department (PCD) reported at…
- Thailand News
Thailand cracks down on e-cigarette sales with mass URL purge
Thailand’s war on illegal vapes has gone digital, with government officials shutting down over 9,500 online links linked to the sale and smuggling of e-cigarettes. Deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan revealed that between March 2024 and March 19, 2025, the Digital Economy and Society Ministry took down 9,515 URLs involved in the illicit vape trade. “We are using every tool…
- Health
How to access the best hospitals in Thailand without overpaying
Thailand offers high-quality healthcare, attracting many expats and medical tourists. The country has both public and private hospitals, with private facilities known for advanced treatments, shorter wait times, and personalised care. However, private healthcare can be expensive. To get the best medical treatment in Thailand hospitals without overpaying, it’s important to compare hospitals, understand pricing, and choose the right insurance.…
- Thailand News
United Nations urges Thailand to collaborate for sustainable future
A United Nations official called on the Government of Thailand, private sector, and communities to collaborate for the nation’s sustainable future. Kanni Wignaraja, Regional Director for Asia and the Pacific at the United Nations Development Programme, highlighted the need for inclusivity in these efforts. During her recent visit to Thailand for the Asia-Pacific Forum on Sustainable Development 2025, held from…
- Thailand video news
Thailand video news | Thailand delays decision on cutting visa-free stay to 30 days, Philippines adds buses, trains amid transport strike
In Thailand video news, Alex and Jay cover key updates, including Thailand’s delayed decision on reducing visa-free stays and a dramatic BMW crash in Phuket. A German man linked to dentist attacks was found dead in Korat, while a violent brawl at MBK Center has sparked calls for tighter mall security. A British tourist alleges mistreatment in a Thai jail,…
- Business News
Thaksin wades into Thailand debt storm with bold bailout plan
Former Thailand Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has reignited debate over the country’s mounting debt crisis, urging the government to buy up bad loans to help struggling households. The 75 year old’s proposal? The state should step in, purchase non-performing loans (NPLs) from financial institutions, and wipe debt-ridden individuals off the National Credit Bureau’s blacklist. But not everyone is convinced by…
- Thailand News
Massage gets a rub down: Thailand cracks whip on shady parlours
The Thai government is cracking down on dodgy massage parlours that are tarnishing the reputation of nuad Thai, as the industry faces a shortage of 50,000 skilled practitioners. The Ministry of Public Health is stepping in to restore the craft’s credibility, amid concerns that inconsistent standards and seedy businesses have led to Thai massage being wrongly linked to brothels. Adviser…
- Thailand News
Experts warn Thailand’s digital wallet plan could be a short-term fix
As Thailand plans its next round of digital wallet handouts, experts are raising concerns. The government’s initiative, aimed at distributing funds to teenagers, may not have the desired economic impact. In fact, some argue it could do more harm than good in the long run. The Thailand Development Research Institute (TDRI) urged the government to reconsider its approach, advising a…
- Thailand video news
Thailand video news | Nightclub owner jailed over deadly Pattaya fire, Malaysia restarts MH370 search with ‘no find, no fee’ deal
In today’s Thailand video news update, Alex and Jay bring key stories from Thailand and Southeast Asia. A Pattaya court sentenced nightclub owner Phongsiri and associates to prison over the deadly 2022 fire, while Phuket prepares for a major water outage in Patong. Thailand climbed to 49th in the World Happiness Report, though challenges remain. Meanwhile, PM2.5 pollution surges across…
- Thailand Travel
Overview of Thailand’s Visas (2025)
For many, Thailand remains steadfast on the must-visit list, the nation also known as the Land of Smiles, continues to be one of the most popular destinations globally. But just as the charm of Thailand has captured the hearts of people worldwide, it’s safe to say that the different visa options can leave visitors scratching their heads at times. Let’s…
- Thailand News
Park life: Thailand eases alcohol rules for officials, not tourists
The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation (DNP) in Thailand has revised regulations to permit alcohol consumption in designated areas within national parks. However, this relaxation applies only to officials and organised groups who obtain permission, while tourists remain prohibited from consuming alcohol. The department, under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), has been gathering public…
- Thailand video news
Thailand video news | Belgian MMA fighter fends off four attackers in Pattaya parking brawl, Indonesia’s richest woman loses $3.6 billion in three days
In Thailand video news, Alex and Jay bring viewers the latest headlines from Thailand and Southeast Asia in today’s news roundup. A Belgian MMA fighter in Pattaya fended off four attackers in a parking dispute, while police in Koh Phangan are searching for foreign shoplifters caught on CCTV. In Phuket, two Dutch tourists were fined for provocative dancing on Bangla…
- Things To Do
Traditional or outgoing day for Songkran in Thailand?
The beloved Thai New Year’s Songkran holiday is fast approaching and it is time to unplug, take a step back, and take a well-deserved time off. Out of every major holiday in Thailand, Songkran holds the title for being the one most looked forward to, both by locals and tourists. Given the holiday and celebratory spirit, there is no better…
- Business News
Digital boom: Thailand’s tech economy set for electrifying growth
Thailand’s digital economy is poised to skyrocket this year, with GDP expected to rise by a staggering 7.3% to hit 4.85 trillion baht, according to the Digital Economy and Society (DES) Ministry. This digital surge far exceeds the national GDP growth rate, sitting at 2.8%, totalling 19.2 trillion baht. Digital investment is also on a meteoric rise, predicted to grow…
- Thailand News
Thai-speed ahead: PM revs up talks for F1 grand prix in Thailand
Could Thailand be the next country to host a glamorous Formula One (F1) Grand Prix? Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has opened the door to this exciting possibility, holding high-level talks with Stefano Domenicali, the CEO of the Formula One Group, about bringing the iconic motorsport event to the kingdom. Yesterday, March 18, Thai government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsab confirmed that the…
- Bangkok News
Baht boost: Thailand greenlights 200 billion for Bangkok transit line
Thailand has sanctioned investment applications amounting to a total of 200 billion baht, spearheaded by a Bangkok transit line and three data centres, offering a potential uplift to the country’s subdued economic growth. The primary initiative is Bangkok Expressway and Metro Plc’s 109 billion baht (US$3.2 billion) investment in the Orange Line, aimed at connecting Bangkok’s western and eastern suburbs,…
- Visa Information
Your guide to obtaining a work visa in Thailand
We all know that Thailand is a tourist magnet, with more than 35 million people visiting the country in 2024. But did you know that it’s also a hotspot for digital nomads, retirees , and corporate professionals looking to make a living? If you’re one of them, then there’s one crucial thing you need to sort out, and that is…
