Thailand video news | Australia to require Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for entry to Thailand, Indonesia to deport fugitive ex-mayor with alleged criminal ties to the Philippines
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex covers the stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia countries. The stories include an Indian man refusing to grant his wife a divorce, the hottest trends on Thai Netflix, and later, a tale involving possible espionage linking Indonesia, the Philippines, and China. Key highlights include Australia’s upcoming requirement for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for entry into Thailand, as well as a rescue in Chon Buri, a Paralympic gold victory for a Thai wheelchair fencer, and more international news.
Australia to Require Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for Entry to Thailand
Australians travelling to Thailand will soon need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before their trip. Starting with a pilot in December 2024 and a full rollout by June 2025, this new requirement applies to visitors from almost 100 countries, including Australia, New Zealand, the UK, and the US. The ETA, processed online, will be free and necessary for every trip. ETA holders will benefit from automated passport gates, while tourists from visa-free countries can now stay up to 60 days, with a possible 30-day extension. Additionally, Thailand offers a five-year Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) for remote workers and digital nomads.
Indian Man Refuses to Leave Thai Wife Despite Divorce Demand
An Indian man in Samut Prakarn is seeking justice after his Thai wife demanded a divorce and expelled him from their home, allowing him to take only an old fridge. The man, Radej, admits he knew his wife, Nuch, deceived him for money but loved her enough to tolerate it. The couple met at a temple, and despite her having four children, he dedicated himself to her. Nuch claimed they fought over her children, leading to the split. Despite reaching an agreement over property, Radej refuses to sign the divorce papers, professing his enduring love for his wife.
American Teacher Arrested in Bangkok for Allegedly Abusing 14-Year-Old Student
An American teacher, Robert Leroy Keller, 41, was arrested in Bangkok for allegedly taking a 14-year-old student to his condo and abusing her. The girl’s mother reported her missing after failing to reach her on February 16, 2024. A schoolteacher later discovered that Keller had taken the girl to his residence after being informed by a concerned friend of the student. Keller is accused of indecent behaviour, including holding hands and hugging the girl. He denies the allegations, claiming the girl was there to study. Keller was arrested on September 3, 2024, and the investigation is ongoing.
Cambodian Worker Rescued After Being Buried by Landslide in Chon Buri
A Cambodian worker, 28-year-old Jin, was rescued after being buried alive by a landslide while fitting a drainage pipe in Chon Buri province. The incident occurred on the morning of September 4 in Bang Lamung district, following days of heavy rain that caused the soil to collapse into a 5.5-meter-deep hole. Jin was trapped under mud for over an hour, with his colleagues managing to clear his face so he could breathe until rescuers arrived. After the dramatic rescue, Jin was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
Thai Wheelchair Fencing Star Saysunee Jana Wins Fourth Paralympic Gold
Thai wheelchair fencing legend Saysunee Jana made a stunning comeback to win her fourth Paralympic gold medal in the women’s sabre category B final in Paris. The 50-year-old narrowly defeated China’s world No. 3, Xiao Rong, with a dramatic 15-14 victory. Trailing 6-8 in the first period, Saysunee fought back to tie the score at 14-14 before securing the winning point through a video review. This triumph marks her first gold of the Games. Thailand is currently 16th in the Paralympic medal standings, with 14 medals in total.
Thai Romantic Comedy ‘Love You to Debt’ Tops Netflix Thailand
Love You to Debt, a Thai romance-action film set in Pattaya, has topped Netflix charts in Thailand. The story follows Bo, an illegal loan shark, and Im, a bank teller burdened by debts and caring for her ailing father. As their lives intertwine, the film mixes romance, action, and drama. While Netflix labels it a romantic comedy, the narrative leans towards drama with its emotional challenges. Showcasing iconic Pattaya locations, the movie also includes action scenes inspired by real loan shark conflicts. Available with English subtitles, it’s now streaming on Netflix.
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Visits Russia to Strengthen Bilateral Ties
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim is visiting Russia for two days, meeting with President Vladimir Putin to discuss collaboration in areas like aerospace, agriculture, and trade. Anwar’s visit follows other Asian leaders, such as those from India, China, and Indonesia, who have engaged with Putin despite Western condemnation over the Ukraine war. Malaysia, a key player in the global semiconductor industry, risks potential sanctions due to its tech ties with Russia. Anwar remains committed to non-alignment, seeking economic growth and investment, while also expressing interest in joining the BRICS bloc.
Indian Prime Minister Modi Begins Two-Day Visit to Singapore
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will begin a two-day visit to Singapore on Wednesday, where he will meet Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, and former Prime Ministers Lee Hsien Loong and Goh Chok Tong. This marks Modi’s fifth visit to Singapore, his first since 2018. He will also participate in a business roundtable with local business leaders, focusing on the semiconductor industry. Modi will be accompanied by senior Indian officials, including the Foreign Minister and National Security Advisor.
Indonesia to Deport Fugitive Ex-Mayor with Alleged Criminal Ties to the Philippines
Indonesia is set to deport Alice Guo, a former Philippine mayor accused of money laundering over 100 million pesos ($1.8 million) and ties to Chinese criminal syndicates, back to the Philippines. Guo, also known as Chinese national Guo Hua Ping, fled the Philippines after refusing to appear before a congressional investigation. She was arrested in Indonesia after escaping through Malaysia and Singapore. Philippine authorities, who filed charges against Guo and 35 others, are finalizing her return. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. lauded the cooperation between Indonesia and the Philippines in securing her arrest.
