In-depth reporting on Malaysia and the region.
Thailand's government is leveraging the international success of 16-year-old guitarist Nene Royal to revitalise tourism and cultural exports. Her viral America's Got Talent performances have accumulated over 200 million views, prompting official backing and corporate sponsorship.
Thailand has secured a 30-day visa exemption for Indian tourists as part of an ambitious drive to attract 2.7 million arrivals by 2027, capitalising on India's position as the country's third-largest source market.
Thailand is introducing a domestic tourism subsidy scheme worth 1.75 billion baht starting September, while proposing a new fee on foreign visitors to finance infrastructure and environmental projects at tourist destinations.
The Italian Embassy in Bangkok has formally apologised after a group of Italian teenagers engaged in disruptive and disrespectful behaviour aboard the BTS Skytrain, a video of which went viral on social media.
Thailand attracted 17.36 million foreign tourists through mid-July, generating 838.73 billion baht in revenue. While arrivals fell 3.05% year-on-year, recent momentum suggests recovery potential as airlines expand routes and regional travel normalises.