Thailand video news | Thailand extends suspension of TM6 form to boost tourism, Malaysia arrests hundreds over child abuse and trafficking allegations

In Thailand video news, Alex covers news stories from across Thailand and Southeast Asia countries. The stories include the Thai government has extended the suspension of the TM6 arrival form to streamline travel processes and boost tourism until April 2025. On the financial front, the Bank of Thailand has cut interest rates for the first time in four years to stimulate the economy, public safety concerns have arisen following an incident involving a taxi driver hitting a tourist at Phuket Airport and a brawl between vocational students disrupting commuters at Siam BTS. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia sees Malaysia ramping up arrests related to child abuse cases, and Singapore responding swiftly to a bomb threat on an Air India flight. Additional coverage includes the humorous viral story of a foreigner’s tattoo mishap in Thailand, a minor earthquake hitting Taiwan, and a distressing domestic dispute in China.

Thailand Extends Suspension of TM6 Form to Boost Tourism

Thailand has extended the suspension of the TM6 arrival form for travellers until April 30 next year to boost tourism and ease immigration bottlenecks. The suspension, which began in April 2023, applies to 16 key land and sea checkpoints and is part of the country’s efforts to streamline entry processes. Authorities are also developing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which will allow online registration for tourists, enabling smoother immigration via QR code. While the move is expected to increase tourist flow, especially from Malaysia, experts say new attractions are needed in the Deep South to sustain long-term growth.

 

Bank of Thailand Cuts Interest Rates for First Time in Four Years

The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has cut its key interest rate for the first time in four years, reducing it by 25 basis points to 2.25%, following government pressure to stimulate the economy. The surprise move contrasts with economists’ expectations, as inflation remains low and economic growth sluggish. The Thai Chamber of Commerce welcomed the decision, hoping it would ease business costs, especially with a strong baht affecting exports. However, BoT Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput emphasized that rate cuts alone won’t drive significant growth, citing the need for structural reforms and caution due to high household debt levels.

 

Phuket Taxi Driver Hits Tourist on Airport Zebra Crossing

A Thai taxi driver struck a foreign man on a zebra crossing at Phuket International Airport on October 15, leaving the man unconscious with serious injuries, including a wound on his mouth. Witnesses, including an off-duty airport worker, provided assistance to the victim, though his condition has not been updated. The accident, involving an airport taxi with a green registration plate, sparked criticism online, with many questioning the driver’s speed and lack of caution at the zebra crossing. Airport taxis have faced similar complaints before, with netizens expressing frustration over their driving behaviour.

 

Vocational Student Brawl Disrupts Bangkok Commuters at Siam BTS

A brawl between vocational students disrupted Bangkok commuters at Siam BTS station on the morning of October 16, causing panic as passengers scrambled for safety. The fight broke out around 8:30 a.m., involving over ten students before police intervened. Videos circulating online show the chaotic scene as an officer struggled to separate the students, while commuters sought refuge. Despite the fight, regular train services continued, adding to the danger. Additional officers eventually arrived and detained the students. The Pathumwan Police Station is investigating the incident further.

 

Authorities Deny Claims of Korean Drug Suspect’s Jail Livestream

The Thai Department of Corrections has denied claims that a South Korean drug trafficking suspect live-streamed from inside Pattaya Remand Prison. The suspect, arrested on October 3 in Chonburi, allegedly claimed he broadcasted from the prison, but authorities confirmed he was never detained there, and the cell shown in the video didn’t match any of their facilities. The suspect, wanted for drug-related charges in South Korea, was apprehended by Thai authorities as part of a joint effort with South Korean agencies. Thai officials have revoked his visa and are preparing to deport him.

 

Foreigner’s Tattoo Mix-up Sparks Laughter Over ‘Love, Peace, and Curry’

A foreign man became the subject of a social media frenzy after showing off a Thai tattoo he believed said “love, peace, and harmony.” However, the Thai text actually translated to “spicy green curry with chicken.” The man, using the Reddit handle thirsty Fridays, proudly shared his tattoo, but Thai users quickly corrected him, pointing out the culinary mix-up. Despite the blunder, he embraced the humour, recalling a spicy green curry meal he had at a beachfront restaurant in Chon Buri. Thai commenters noted that while the spelling was correct, the phrasing was unusual for the dish.

 

Malaysia Arrests Hundreds Over Child Abuse and Trafficking Allegations

Malaysian authorities have arrested hundreds more suspects connected to the Islamic Global Ikhwan Group (GISB) amid allegations of human trafficking and child abuse. The group gained international attention after police rescued 402 minors from 20 care homes in September. An initial 171 arrests included teachers and caretakers, but further investigations have led to more arrests, with charges related to forced labour and human trafficking. Authorities are also investigating the group’s international operations, with the help of Interpol. GISB operates businesses in 20 countries and has been linked to Al-Arqam, a banned religious sect in Malaysia.

Singapore Scrambles Fighter Jets After Bomb Threat on Air India Flight

Singapore’s air force scrambled two fighter jets on October 16 to escort Air India Express flight AXB684 following a bomb threat. The flight was directed away from populated areas and safely landed at Changi Airport, where it was handed over to police. After security checks, no threat items were found. Singapore’s defence systems were also activated in response. Investigations are ongoing, and authorities warned of serious consequences for causing public alarm. Air India noted that recent threats, including one affecting another flight bound for Chicago, were hoaxes but are treated seriously for safety.

 

Magnitude 5.2 Earthquake Hits Eastern Taiwan, No Damage Reported

A magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck off the coast of Hualien County, eastern Taiwan, at 9:58 p.m. on October 16, according to the Central Weather Administration. The epicentre was located 8.9 kilometres east-northeast of Hualien County Hall at a depth of 25.2 kilometres. The earthquake’s intensity reached 3 on Taiwan’s 7-tier scale in parts of Hualien, Yilan, and Nantou counties. There were no immediate reports of damage or injuries.

 

Mother Endangers Children in Viral Video During Domestic Dispute in China

A viral video from Luoyang, China, shows a mother placing her two children on an air conditioning unit outside their 23rd-floor apartment during an argument with her husband. The children, without safety gear, were perched dangerously on the unit as their mother blocked the father from reaching them. Neighbours heard the frightened cries of the girl and quickly alerted authorities. Firefighters arrived and rescued the children. Outrage spread online, with many condemning the mother’s actions. Authorities are investigating, though it’s unclear if she will face legal consequences. This incident highlights growing concerns about child protection in China.

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