Thailand video news | Thailand’s digital arrival card sparks confusion, Myanmar groups warn of military aid misuse
In Thailand video news, Alex and Jay bring the latest updates from Thailand and Southeast Asia, covering major developments that impact travellers, residents, and businesses. This week’s top stories include confusion over Thailand’s new digital arrival card, the fallout from a powerful earthquake shaking Thai tourism, and new claims surrounding Shane Warne’s death. In other news, a British man tragically dies after his first Muay Thai fight, Myanmar’s aftershocks trigger evacuations in Bangkok, and Phuket celebrates a historic back-to-back win at Miss Grand Thailand. Plus, regional efforts intensify to ensure aid reaches Myanmar’s earthquake victims, while Ho Chi Minh City unveils a landmark pedestrian bridge project.
Thailand’s Digital Arrival Card Sparks Confusion
Thailand will replace its TM6 arrival form with the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) on May 1, aiming to modernise entry procedures. However, the rollout has caused chaos. Travellers must submit personal details online for a QR code, but unclear instructions and a non-functional tutorial are creating frustration. It remains unclear if TDAC replaces customs forms or if paper versions are still required. All foreign nationals, regardless of visa type, must complete it. With just weeks left, Thailand’s digital immigration overhaul faces major challenges.
Earthquake Tremors Shake Thai Tourism
A 7.7-magnitude earthquake in Myanmar has rattled Thailand’s tourism sector. Buildings in Bangkok shook, prompting 10% of foreign tourists to leave early, while international arrivals could drop by 15% over the next two weeks. The Thai Hotels Association and the government are conducting safety audits to reassure visitors. With tourism contributing 13% of GDP and employing 20% of the workforce, the stakes are high. Songkran bookings remain below pre-COVID levels, particularly among hesitant Chinese travellers. Experts warn this could derail Thailand’s goal of 38.1 million tourist arrivals in 2025.
British Man Dies After First Muay Thai Fight
Joseph Itai Rinomhota, a 30-year-old British man, died after his first Muay Thai fight on Koh Samui. He collapsed following a strong kick to the ribs in the third round at Samui International Stadium on 28 March. Though he left the ring unaided, he soon suffered spasms and breathing difficulties before collapsing. Despite CPR and an hour of resuscitation at Thai International Hospital, doctors pronounced him dead at 23:00. Police are investigating the cause of death and working with the British Embassy. Rinomhota had visited Thailand nine times before.
Shane Warne Death Mystery Deepens
New claims suggest Thai police secretly removed a bottle of Kamagra—a banned Indian sex drug—from Shane Warne’s death scene to protect his legacy. Though officials ruled his death as natural due to heart issues, sources allege higher authorities influenced the investigation. Kamagra poses serious heart risks, raising concerns over Warne’s autopsy and the swift repatriation of his body. The sudden closure of the massage parlour he visited and the missing therapists add to the mystery. Many now question what truly happened in Warne’s final hours.
Myanmar Aftershock Triggers Bangkok Evacuations
A minor aftershock from Myanmar’s recent earthquake shook Bangkok on 31 March, forcing evacuations from several high-rise buildings, including the Government Complex in Lak Si. A loud cracking sound and falling plaster sparked panic, especially as parts of the complex—home to key courts and government offices—appeared to be sinking. The Thai Meteorological Department assured that the tremor posed no threat, attributing structural damage to pre-existing cracks. Authorities are now inspecting buildings and urging owners to assess safety before reopening. Officials stress relying on verified updates for safety decisions.
Phuket’s Saranrat Pueakpipat Wins Miss Grand Thailand 2025
Saranrat “Gotchabell” Pueakpipat from Phuket has won Miss Grand Thailand 2025, securing the island’s first back-to-back victory in the pageant’s history. Her elegant performance at MGI Hall on 29 March earned her the crown, with Khon Kaen’s “Cheraim” as first runner-up and Lampang’s “Jan” in third place. Saranrat will now represent Thailand at Miss Grand International 2025, set to be held in Thailand later this year. Following last year’s win by fellow Phuket native Thaweeporn “Aoom” Phingchamrat, this victory cements Phuket’s reputation as a beauty queen stronghold.
Myanmar Groups Warn of Military Aid Misuse
In the wake of Myanmar’s 7.7-magnitude earthquake, 265 civil society groups warn that the military junta could exploit humanitarian aid for political gain. They urge relief efforts to bypass the regime, citing past abuses after Cyclone Nargis (2008) and Cyclone Mocha (2023). The junta allegedly blocks aid from reaching resistance-held areas while continuing airstrikes post-quake. Critics, including Progressive Voice, demand urgent UN action, questioning its failure to curb military violence. Meanwhile, ASEAN and regional powers are coordinating aid efforts, sparking fears of further enabling the junta.
Cambodian Worker Dies After Thai Quake
Thai authorities confirmed the death of 23-year-old Cambodian worker Meas Sawang following the recent earthquake. Officials discovered his body on 31 March. Cambodia’s Ministry of Labour expressed condolences, while Prime Minister Hun Manet directed officials to assist his family. Cambodian Ambassador Hun Saroeun visited the hospital and joined traditional prayers before repatriation. Local authorities are handling funeral arrangements, with the ministry providing updates on the earthquake’s broader impact pending Thai confirmation.
Malaysia and Thailand to Assess Myanmar Aid Response
Malaysia and Thailand’s foreign ministers will visit Myanmar on 5 April to evaluate earthquake relief efforts. Following an emergency ASEAN meeting, the bloc activated the ASEAN Secretary-General as Humanitarian Assistance Coordinator to streamline disaster response. The visit aims to ensure aid reaches affected communities fairly, with support from the ASEAN Disaster Response Centre (AHA Centre). Their joint statement stresses the need for a safe environment for aid distribution and urges all Myanmar stakeholders to prioritise humanitarian needs without obstruction.
Saigon Riverfront to Get Landmark Pedestrian Bridge
Ho Chi Minh City has begun building a 720-metre pedestrian bridge over the Saigon River, inspired by the shape of a nipa palm leaf, a southern Vietnamese symbol. Connecting District 1 to the Thu Thiem Peninsula, the bridge is expected to become a city landmark upon completion next year. Funded entirely by Nutifood, the VND1 trillion (US$39 million) project includes cyclist lanes, disabled access, and emergency vehicle pathways. Positioned between the Ba Son Bridge and the Saigon River Tunnel, its innovative steel arch design blends tradition with modern engineering.
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