Thailand video news | Bangkok hotel fire claims lives of three foreign nationals, Russia’s secret plans target Japan and South Korea
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex and Jay bring you the latest updates from Thailand and Asia. Highlights include the tragic toll of New Year road accidents in Thailand, a deadly hotel fire in Bangkok, and a Norwegian tourist assault in Phuket. Other stories cover fireworks sparking a blaze at a Bang Saen Beach restaurant, a sky lantern safety incident in Chiang Mai, and Thailand’s contrasting cold and stormy weather. Beyond Thailand, key developments include Indonesia’s tech bans, Malaysia’s social media licensing challenges, Russia’s military leaks targeting Asia, and Philippine critic Leila de Lima’s political comeback. Stay tuned for in-depth coverage of these impactful stories.
Thailand’s New Year Road Tragedies: Over 200 Lives Lost in Five Days
Thailand’s roads have claimed 215 lives just five days into the “10 Dangerous Days” New Year road safety campaign, with 1,398 accidents and 1,354 injuries recorded from December 27 to 31, 2024. Motorcycles were involved in nearly 90% of incidents, with speeding, drunk driving, and reckless overtaking as leading causes. Highways and local roads saw the most accidents, particularly during late-night and evening hours. Young adults aged 20–29 were the most affected group. Authorities are responding with checkpoints and enforcement as millions travel home post-celebrations, emphasizing road safety to reduce further tragedies.
Bangkok Hotel Fire Claims Lives of Three Foreign Nationals
A fire at Bangkok’s Ember Hotel near the popular Khao San Road killed three foreign nationals, including an American and a Brazilian woman, while injuring seven others, including five foreigners. Firefighters arrived quickly and rescued 75 people, but the cause of the blaze remains under investigation. Bangkok’s governor ordered the hotel’s closure and inspection of its alarm system. This incident adds to concerns over Thailand’s lax safety regulations in bars and hotels, following similar fires in recent months. Authorities are preparing for heightened safety as 1.5 million tourists are expected for New Year celebrations.
Norwegian Tourist Assaulted by Ride-Hailing Driver in Phuket
A Norwegian tourist, Egil Christian Andresen, was assaulted by a ride-hailing driver in Phuket on December 30 after a disagreement over the destination. The driver reportedly struck Andresen with a sign, causing injuries to his face, temple, and elbows. Andresen, who has over 30 years of taxi driving experience in Norway, expressed shock at the incident, contrasting it with the strict standards for drivers in his home country. The victim has filed a police report, providing CCTV evidence, while authorities investigate the case. The incident has raised concerns about passenger safety and driver conduct in Phuket.
Fireworks Spark Blaze at Bang Saen Beach Restaurant
A devastating fire broke out at a famous restaurant on Bang Saen Beach, believed to have been sparked by embers from New Year countdown fireworks. The thatched roof and wooden decorations fueled the flames, causing extensive damage despite firefighters’ efforts to control the blaze within 30 minutes. Police and forensic investigators are examining the scene to confirm the cause and take legal action if necessary. The incident highlights safety concerns during festive celebrations.
A Tourist Prevented from Releasing A Sky Lantern in Chiang Mai
A Japanese tourist in Chiang Mai was stopped by a patrol officer from releasing a sky lantern during New Year celebrations on December 31. The tourist, upset by the intervention, grabbed the officer’s collar, prompting the officer to knock the lantern from his hand to prevent a safety hazard. Despite the confrontation, the officer remained calm, explained the safety regulations, and eventually received an apology from the tourist. Praised for his patience and professionalism, the officer’s actions ensured safety without escalating the situation. A video of the incident shared on TikTok has since drawn significant attention online.
Cold Weather and Thunderstorms Grip Thailand
Thailand is experiencing a mix of cold weather in the north and thunderstorms in the south due to a moderate high-pressure system and monsoon effects. Mountainous areas are very cold, with temperatures as low as 4°C, and frost possible in some regions. In contrast, the south faces isolated thunderstorms and high sea waves exceeding 2 meters. Bangkok and central regions are chilly, with lows around 21°C. Mariners are advised to exercise caution, particularly in storm-prone areas. Dust levels remain moderate, and precautions are recommended for cold and dry conditions to prevent fire hazards.
Indonesia Bans iPhone 16 and Google Pixel Sales
Indonesia has banned sales of the iPhone 16 and Google Pixel due to the country’s TKDN policy, which requires phones to source at least 40% of parts locally. This move has frustrated tech enthusiasts like Winston, a longtime Apple fan, who previously faced issues using an iPhone bought overseas. While aimed at supporting local industries, critics warn the policy could harm trade relationships and consumer choice. Apple offered to invest $100 million to lift the ban, but Indonesia rejected the proposal, deeming it insufficient compared to investments in neighbouring countries. For now, many Indonesians will go without the latest models.
Google and Musk’s X Miss Malaysia’s Social Media License Deadline
Malaysia’s new social media licensing rules, aimed at combating cybercrime, have seen mixed compliance among tech giants. By the January 1 deadline, Google and Elon Musk’s X had not secured licenses, citing concerns over user thresholds and platform classification. X claimed to have only 5.71 million Malaysian users, below the 8 million threshold, while Google is negotiating its compliance. In contrast, Chinese platforms like WeChat and TikTok, along with Telegram, have complied, and Meta (owner of Facebook and Instagram) is in the process. Malaysia has criticised Meta for slow responses to removing scam-related content, sparking concerns over the licensing’s impact on digital innovation.
Russia’s Secret Plans Target Japan and South Korea
Leaked Russian military documents reveal detailed plans to target 160 sites in Japan and South Korea, including civilian infrastructure like nuclear plants and industrial facilities. The plans highlight Moscow’s concern about threats from US allies in Asia and its eastern borders’ vulnerability during conflicts with NATO. The documents also showcase Russia’s confidence in its Kh-101 missiles, though experts have criticised their accuracy and stealth. Past missions testing Japanese and South Korean air defences further underscore Russia’s strategic focus on the region. The revelations raise concerns about potential war crimes and strained relations, particularly as Russia continues to escalate tensions globally.
Philippine Critic Leila de Lima Eyes Political Comeback
Leila de Lima, a former Philippine senator and critic of ex-president Rodrigo Duterte’s deadly “war on drugs,” plans to return to politics in 2025 after spending over six years in jail on baseless charges. De Lima, who investigated alleged extrajudicial killings under Duterte’s regime, was vilified and accused of facilitating drug crimes. Witnesses against her have since recanted, leading to her release in June. Now running with the Mamamayang Liberal party, she aims to advocate for marginalised communities and seek justice for drug war victims, with as many as 30,000 reported deaths. Duterte faces an ICC investigation into possible crimes against humanity. Speculation surrounds President Marcos Jr., who could decide whether to cooperate with the ICC amid tensions with the Duterte family.
