Thailand video news | Bangkok: 16 communities brace for Chao Phraya River deluge, South African teacher vanishes in Cambodia after dinner date
In today’s video news from Thailand, Alex brings you the latest stories making headlines across Thailand and Southeast Asia. The news includes Bangkok is on high alert as 16 communities brace for potential flooding from the Chao Phraya River, while Phuket authorities arrested a Swiss man for carrying a handgun at the airport. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has urged swift updates to road safety laws following a recent bus accident, and Thai Airways is elevating its in-flight experience with gourmet menus for all cabin classes. In Chiang Mai, floods led to the rescue of a 300kg catfish, and scenic train adventures from Bangkok have been launched to promote domestic tourism. Meanwhile, concerns grow in Cambodia over the disappearance of a South African teacher, and The Trump Organization is set to develop a $1.5 billion golf and hotel project in Vietnam.
Bangkok: 16 communities brace for Chao Phraya River deluge
Bangkok is on high alert as 16 communities across seven districts face a significant flood risk from October 13-23 due to rising Chao Phraya River levels. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) warns that a surge fueled by increased water discharge from the Chao Phraya Dam and rising sea tides could inundate areas without protective flood barriers. Riverfront communities such as Soi Si Kham and Dusit district are particularly vulnerable. The BMA urges residents to stay updated, as further water level increases could cause severe flooding. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra assured that the current rainfall is below 2011’s devastating levels.
Swiss man busted with gun at Phuket Airport
An 82-year-old Swiss man, Kurt Fritz Loliger, was arrested at Phuket International Airport on October 7 after a handgun was found in his luggage during a routine security check. The firearm, identified as a short-barrel ASTRA cal 6.35 a25 model, was detected at Gate 81 of the International Passenger Terminal around 8:30 pm. The airport’s X-ray image officer flagged the suspicious item, leading to Loliger’s detention by the Sakhu Police for further investigation. The incident has raised security concerns, with authorities emphasising strict firearm policies and legal consequences regardless of age or nationality.
PM Paetongtarn urges swift update of laws to boost road safety
Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has called for a rapid update of Thailand’s road safety laws following a tragic bus accident on October 1. In a recent meeting, she stressed the need for stricter enforcement and law revisions to improve passenger safety. Key agencies, including the Transport and Interior Ministries, have been tasked with enhancing traffic safety measures. Suggestions include mandatory pre-departure bus safety demonstrations. An international forum on road safety chaired by UN Special Envoy Jean Todt will be held in Thailand next month, highlighting these efforts. The Senate is also reviewing urgent motions to address safety standards in public transport.
Thai Airways is stepping up its flavour game with gourmet menus for all classes
Thai Airways has introduced premium gourmet menus for all cabin classes, elevating in-flight dining. With an 80% load factor on European routes, the airline is enhancing its service by offering luxury dishes like Italian caviar in First Class and Thai street food-inspired meals in Economy. Highlights include October’s Khao Soi chicken and butter toast with Thai milk tea, with menu rotations every two months. Business and First Class passengers receive upgraded amenities, such as Jim Thompson kits and La Mer products, while Economy passengers get eco-friendly Naraya tote bags. Additionally, THAI’s revamped mobile app offers enhanced features for Royal Orchid Plus members.
Fishing for owner: Chiang Mai rescue reels in 300kg catfish
During the recent floods in Chiang Mai, a rescue team discovered a 300-kilogram giant catfish near Saraphi Railway Station. Believed to be a pet due to its size, the fish’s photos went viral on social media, prompting a search for its owner. A Facebook user, Mahnoi Karn, claimed the fish belonged to her family and had gone missing during the flood, though it’s unclear if it was reunited with its owner. The floodwaters have since receded, and cleanup efforts are underway in the city. Another unusual discovery during the floods was a coffin that floated to a local man’s home.
All aboard: Bangkok’s scenic train adventures are ready to roll
The Transport Ministry has announced scenic train journeys from Bangkok, running from October to February, to promote domestic tourism. Three options are available: the luxurious Royal Blossom, the nostalgic Kiha 183, and WWII-era steam locomotives. The Royal Blossom offers 180-degree views for 1,799 baht per day trip, while Kiha 183-day trips start at 1,499 baht, with overnight options at 3,999 baht. The steam trains will run special trips to historic sites like Ayutthaya and Chachoengsao, with tickets starting at 329 baht. Bookings are available via train stations or the D-Ticket app.
70-year-old Indian man fined $1,168 in Malaysia over clothes reflecting ‘support’ for LGBTQ
A 70-year-old Indian man, Satyanarayana Prasad Papoli, and a 66-year-old Taiwanese activist, Arthur Wang, were fined $1,168 each by a Malaysian court for obscenity during a charity run in Johor. The fundraiser, which aimed to support children with cerebral palsy, saw controversy as some participants wore rainbow socks and cross-dressed, seen as endorsing LGBTQ culture. Papoli and Wang were arrested for allegedly wearing inappropriate attire, with Wang explaining his outfit was traditional clothing from Taiwan’s Orchid Island. LGBTQ activities are generally rejected in Malaysia, and the incident sparked backlash.
US diver feared dead after body parts found inside shark off Indonesia
A 68-year-old US tourist, Colleen Monfore, is believed to be dead after body parts matching a woman were found inside a shark caught near Timor-Leste. Monfore went missing on September 26 while diving with friends off Pulau Reong island, Indonesia, after being swept away by strong currents. The search lasted eight days before being called off. The shark, caught by a fisherman 75 miles from where she disappeared, contained body parts and diving gear. While authorities are investigating whether the remains are Monfore’s, some friends dispute the shark attack theory, suggesting she likely died from a medical issue. Shark attacks are rare in the region, with just 11 unprovoked incidents in 275 years.
South African teacher vanishes in Cambodia after dinner date
A 26-year-old South African teacher, Angelique Tong, has gone missing in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, after a dinner date with a British man named Jack on September 29. Tong, who worked at Smart Kids PP, was last seen at Harry’s Bistro, a riverside restaurant. Since that evening, there has been no contact, and her phone remains off. Tong’s absence from work on October 7 raised concerns among colleagues, prompting a formal appeal for information. She is described as having blonde hair, and hazel eyes, standing 1.58 meters tall, weighing 50 kilograms, with a Khmer script tattoo on her right forearm.
Trump Organization to develop $1.5 billion golf course and hotel project in Vietnam
Vietnam’s Kinhbac City has partnered with The Trump Organization to develop a $1.5 billion golf course and hotel project in Hung Yen province. The memorandum of understanding was signed in late September during the Vietnamese President’s visit to the U.S. The project will feature two 54-hole golf courses, hotels, resorts, and a residential complex. Eric Trump expressed excitement about entering Vietnam’s luxury hotel and entertainment market. The Trump Organization’s golf and resort business is a major revenue driver, but no construction timeline has been disclosed. Vietnam currently has around 70 golf courses and 100,000 local golfers.
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