Thailand video news | American academic denied bail under Thai royal defamation law, Vietnamese student visas to the US hit 10-year high
In today’s Thailand video news, Alex and Jay cover key stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia. They discuss the denial of bail for American academic Dr Paul Chambers under Thailand’s royal defamation law, a sharp plunge in the Thai stock market following new US tariffs, and the arrest of a British tourist for overstaying her visa. Also featured are Thai Airways’ major Dreamliner order, a backlash against a controversial Chiang Mai restaurant promotion, and Pattaya’s strong Songkran tourism despite nationwide lulls. The episode also highlights Indonesia’s market crash, a surge in Vietnamese student visas to the US, Cambodia’s green space expansion, and the Philippines’ national holiday honouring WWII veterans.
American Academic Denied Bail Under Thai Royal Defamation Law
Thai authorities have denied bail to American scholar Dr Paul Chambers, who faces charges under Section 112 and the Computer Crime Act. The Third Army Region accused him of defaming the monarchy and spreading false information. His arrest—without a prior subpoena—has sparked criticism from rights groups and politicians, who say it threatens academic freedom in Thailand.
Thai Stock Market Plunges After US Tariffs
Thailand’s SET Index fell 42.30 points (3.76%) on 8 April, hit by fears of a global trade war following new US tariffs. Major firms like Gulf Energy and Kasikornbank led the sell-off after a three-day break. In response, the SET imposed short-selling restrictions and narrowed trading bands. The US’s 36% tariff on Thai goods, coupled with weak earnings and economic uncertainty, dragged the index to a five-year low—down nearly 20% this year.
British Tourist Arrested for 207-Day Overstay in Phuket
Thai immigration arrested a 45-year-old British woman at Phuket Airport on 7 April for overstaying her visa by 207 days. She was detained while attempting to leave the country. Her identity and reasons for the overstay remain unknown. The case highlights Thailand’s strict immigration enforcement.
Thai Airways Orders 45 Boeing Dreamliners to Expand Fleet
Thai Airways has ordered 45 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners to modernise its fleet, increasing its aircraft from 85 to 116 by 2027, and aiming for 150 by 2033. CEO Chai Eamsiri says the deal supports both airline growth and Thailand’s efforts to reduce the US trade deficit. Deliveries begin in 2027, with aircraft powered by GEnx engines. THAI will also lease or hire-purchase 35 more aircraft for financial flexibility.
Chiang Mai Eatery Slammed Over “Skinny Discount” Stunt
Chiang Mai Breakfast World has come under fire for a “skinny discount” campaign offering up to 20% off if diners squeeze through narrow bars. The viral challenge, shared by bloggers Amina and Alex, drew global criticism for promoting body-shaming. While some see it as playful, others call it fatphobic. Despite backlash, the restaurant maintains high TripAdvisor ratings, reigniting debate over marketing ethics and body image.
Pattaya Dominates Songkran Tourism Despite Nationwide Slump
Pattaya leads Songkran travel, with up to 500,000 daily visitors and 4-star hotels nearly full. Events like Wan Lai Pattaya boost the city’s appeal. In contrast, Chiang Mai and Bangkok saw hotel bookings drop by 67% and 31% respectively. Phuket and Hat Yai also reported strong numbers, driven partly by Malaysian tourists. Pattaya’s vibrant celebrations and cultural focus have made it the season’s top destination.
Indonesia Markets Crash, Rupiah Hits Record Low on US Tariffs
Indonesia’s stock market tumbled 9.2% on 8 April, halting trade for 30 minutes after reopening from a long break. The rupiah dropped to a record low of 16,850 per US dollar—worse than during the Asian Financial Crisis. The slump followed US tariffs, including a 32% levy on Indonesian goods. In response, authorities tightened trading rules to calm markets and protect investor confidence.
Vietnamese Student Visas to the US Hit 10-Year High
The US issued over 18,600 student visas to Vietnamese nationals in FY2024—a 10-year high and a 27% increase from 2023. F-1 visas made up the bulk, supporting the 22,000-strong Vietnamese student population in the US. This cohort contributes significantly to the $50 billion generated by international students. Despite a 41% global visa denial rate, the number of Vietnamese students continues to grow.
Cambodia to Build $70M Public Park in Phnom Penh
Cambodian PM Hun Manet has ordered a 70-hectare public park in Phnom Penh’s Kob Srov area. The $70 million project aims to provide space for recreation, exercise, and public events. Officials stress the land will remain off-limits to commercial development. The initiative forms part of a broader push to expand green spaces, improve urban infrastructure, and combat climate change.
Philippines Declares April 9 a Holiday to Honour War Veterans
The Philippines has declared 9 April a regular holiday for the 83rd Day of Valour, commemorating the Fall of Bataan and the Bataan Death March. Led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., events from 5–11 April honour Filipino and American WWII veterans. The ceremonies centred at Mount Samat, pay tribute to their heroism and role in shaping the nation’s future.
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