National

Abhisit Slams Government Claims as 'Far-Fetched,' Says Oil Price Relief Shifts Burden to Future Generations; Pledges to Investigate AI Projects

Opposition leader Abhisit Vejjajiva criticized the government's 400-billion-baht emergency loan decree on May 23, arguing it shifts debt burden to future generations instead of addressing root causes like energy prices. The Democratic Party

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On May 23, 2025, Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democratic Party, criticized the government's 400-billion-baht emergency loan decree. He argued that while the government claims to worry about citizens and justify borrowing for relief programs, the actual solution it implemented was simply lowering oil prices. He expressed disappointment that the Finance Ministry rejected this analysis, despite his explanation that revenue losses from oil subsidies are far smaller than the loan amount, and that the problem could be solved without incurring unnecessary debt.

Abhisit noted that the Energy Ministry previously promised to seriously address abnormally high refinery costs and stop referencing Singapore oil prices. Last month, they claimed a 3-baht adjustment became 5 baht, but when public attention moved elsewhere, fuel and transport fares were immediately raised. The ministry then abandoned the initiative, reverting to the old system while attempting to fix pump prices by shifting the burden onto the oil fund—effectively burdening future fuel consumers.

Abhisit stated this contradicts the government's rhetoric of "ultimate solutions" and structural reform. He argued that without seriously addressing the root cause—energy prices—the government will spend massive amounts providing temporary relief while creating debt for future generations. The Democratic Party will therefore continue pushing this issue.

Abhisit announced that this week they will clarify details about the Land Bridge project, which costs nearly one trillion baht. With that same amount, southern Thailand could have a motorway from Bangkok to the border, dual-track electric railway connecting Malaysia, a deep-sea port in Ranong, and Gulf coast connections to Penang—all less expensive alternatives. The party will push the government to listen to these proposals.

Abhisit also raised concerns about the government's claim to need borrowing because budget transfers are impossible, though new cabinet ministers are already discovering problems in various ministries. On May 25, the Democratic Party will announce tools to investigate budget irregularities, beginning with all projects involving AI or artificial intelligence.

When asked to assess the political situation following support from both red and blue camp figures, Abhisit said the government's problem is not about influential backing, but whether it can actually solve people's problems. When asked whether various observers are noting that the blue regime is consolidating control over Thailand, Abhisit cautioned against rushing to conclusions, citing historical lessons showing that power consolidation attempts have not ended well.

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Weather

Meteorological Department Forecasts Heavy Rain Across Three Regions Tomorrow as Southwest Monsoon Intensifies

Heavy rain is forecast across northern, eastern, and southern Thailand over the next 24 hours as the southwest monsoon intensifies, with warnings issued for flash floods in mountainous and low-lying areas.

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The Thai Meteorological Department forecasts continued heavy rainfall across the northern, eastern, and southern regions over the next 24 hours as the southwest monsoon maintains moderate strength over the upper Andaman Sea and Thailand. Combined with southerly and southeasterly winds drawing moisture from the South China Sea into northern Thailand, and a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam and southern China, conditions favor heavy downpours. The public is warned to be vigilant about dangers from heavy and accumulated rainfall that could trigger sudden flash floods and flooding, especially in mountainous terrain near waterways and in low-lying areas. People should also take care of their health during this period of changing weather conditions.

Maritime conditions in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand are moderately rough, with waves reaching approximately 2 meters in the upper Andaman Sea and 1-2 meters in the lower Andaman Sea and upper Gulf. Areas experiencing thunderstorms may see waves exceeding 2 meters. Sailors are advised to navigate with caution and avoid areas with thunderstorms.

Weather Forecast for Thailand (6:00 PM today to 6:00 PM tomorrow):

Northern Region: Thunderstorms affecting 60% of the area with heavy rainfall in places around Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, and Phetchabun provinces. Low 23-25°C, high 33-36°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Northeast Region: Thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area, mainly around Loei, Nong Khai, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima provinces. Low 24-26°C, high 34-36°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Central Region: Thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area, mostly around Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, Nakhon Pathom, Samut Songkhram, Samut Sakhon, and Ayutthaya provinces. Low 24-26°C, high 34-36°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Eastern Region: Thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area with heavy rainfall in places around Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chachoengsao, and Trat provinces. Low 25-27°C, high 31-35°C. Southwest winds 15-35 km/h. Seas with waves 1-2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Southern Region (Eastern Coast): Thunderstorms affecting 40% of the area, mainly around Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces. Low 24-26°C, high 34-37°C. Southwest winds 15-35 km/h. Coastal waves 1 meter, 1-2 meters offshore, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Southern Region (Western Coast): Thunderstorms affecting 60% of the area with heavy rainfall in places around Ranong, Phang Nga, and Phuket provinces. Low 24-26°C, high 32-36°C. From Phang Nga northward: southwest winds 20-35 km/h with waves approximately 2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. From Phuket southward: southwest winds 15-35 km/h with waves 1-2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Bangkok and Vicinity: Thunderstorms affecting 60% of the area. Low 25-27°C.

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Police

Illegal Loan Gang Arrested with Predatory 304% Annual Interest Rates, Flooding City with Flyers

Police arrested a 19-year-old distributor for an illegal loan network charging predatory 304% annual interest rates and flooding Chiang Mai with promotional flyers, revealing a multi-province operation that persisted despite previous convic

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Police arrested 19-year-old Pakhin on May 23, 2025, based on a warrant charging him with operating an unlicensed personal lending business and charging interest rates exceeding legal limits. Officers seized promotional materials bearing the 'Quick Cash' name, a Honda motorcycle, 300 baht in cash, and a debtor list from his residence in Chiang Mai's Samphae district.

Police received complaints that the 'Quick Cash' network, controlled from Chanthaburi and Rayong provinces, was lending to residents at exploitative rates of 20% per 24 days—equivalent to 304% annually. The gang distributed thousands of flyers and business cards throughout homes, shops, markets, and tourist attractions, creating public disturbance and environmental damage. The network had been arrested three times in one year but continued operating without fear of consequences.

Under interrogation, Pakhin confessed to distributing promotional flyers for about one year under a supervisor nicknamed 'Flame.' He acknowledged the illegal interest rates, explaining that a 10,000-baht loan required daily 500-baht payments over 24 days, totaling 12,000 baht repayment.

Investigation revealed the 'Quick Cash' network operates across multiple regions in northern, central, and northeastern Thailand, using identical business card designs while varying colors and phone numbers by province. Pakhin disclosed he had recently been sentenced to two years imprisonment and fined 150,000 baht by Chiang Mai Provincial Court earlier this year but continued the scheme despite suspended sentencing. He was transferred to Samphae Police Station for further legal proceedings.

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National

Yosachanan Pushes for Increased Research and Development Investment at First SOAWC Meeting, Designates Future Food as National Policy

Thailand's science minister called for increased R&D investment and designated future food technology as a national priority at a steering committee meeting, proposing a 20 billion baht funding target to strengthen the country's competitive

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On May 23, 2025, Yosachanan Wongsawat, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, chaired the 4th steering committee meeting of the Office of the National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy Council (SOAWC) at the SOAWC headquarters with both in-person and online participation. Director Surachai Statkunarat served as committee member and secretary.

Yosachanan stated that the government is accelerating efforts to strengthen coordination and unity in work related to the National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council across both higher education and science, technology, research and innovation (STRI) sectors. Thailand possesses substantial knowledge, research work, and potential from various fund management units (PMUs) and universities, but has lacked strategic integration. He emphasized the need to consolidate this knowledge into important national clusters to create new industries and develop future human resources that address global changes.

"What we are doing is linking mechanisms of SOAWC, PMUs, universities, and the private sector to create a new Growth Engine for the country. Each organization has its own data and strengths, so we should consolidate and categorize research results by topic areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology (Biotech), and advanced medicine to mobilize knowledge for analyzing needs in human resource development and STRI investment, and to reflect the country's true requirements," Yosachanan said.

Yosachanan also discussed the necessity of increasing the country's research and development (R&D) investment, proposing cooperation with the Board of Investment (BOI) to address constraints in accessing large-scale research funding. He suggested studying global fund models and investments such as Singapore's Temasek to develop measures attracting advanced technology and innovation investments to Thailand. National-level challenges including industrial transition, environmental crisis, and PM2.5 problems require large-scale investment and collaboration from government, private sector, and major investors to build new competitive capabilities.

"If Thailand can drive STRI investment to the 20,000 million baht target, it will be a crucial turning point for enhancing competitive capability and creating a new economic foundation for the country in the long term. We will move forward and study feasibility with BOI concretely," Yosachanan said.

Surachai briefed the SOAWC steering committee and presented an overview of SOAWC missions and major projects for 2025, including STRI system reform and the Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy and Strategy Framework 2014-2018, advancement of Thailand's future through agricultural and food technology, implementation of systematic measures and benefits for working-age human resource development, establishment of Thailand Foresight Alliance network partnership, mechanisms to accelerate SME transition to innovation-driven enterprises (IDE), the Social Innovation Policy Framework, and development of Regenerative Tourism innovation policy to promote community-based tourism.

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Community

Nireen and Saendee Team Up to Share Their Artist Audition Journey, Clap Back at Drama Over Celebrity Kids Using Connections

Best friends Saendee and Nireen signed with Love Is as trainee artists and defended their audition success against rumors they used celebrity connections, crediting their mothers and agency head P'Jib's belief in their talent instead.

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Best friends Saendee and Nireen have successfully landed a contract as trainee artists at Love Is, and they're opening up about their audition journey for the first time after facing rumors that they used celebrity connections to advance their careers. They're giving full credit to their mothers Nhing and O as their true backbone, while also clarifying their relationship with friend Beena on the One31 talk show "Khuay Saep Show."

When asked how they felt about signing with Love Is, Nireen expressed excitement: "I'm so thrilled, and I'm grateful that P'Jib (Thepayut Kawinanan) sees us. We auditioned at many agencies, but P'Jib believed in us and gave us this opportunity."

Saendee admitted she didn't expect to pass: "At first I didn't think we'd make it because the audition didn't feel good. P'Jib was in the audition room with us, and he signed us on the spot. I was so grateful to P'Jib."

The pair revealed the pressure they faced during auditions. Nireen described feeling pressure because she only wanted this label, while Saendee was nervous when P'Jib called in other staff members to watch her perform, eventually showcasing 5-6 songs.

Both girls are balancing training with their studies. Saendee said P'Jib is very supportive of education and agreed to schedule practice sessions after school hours. Nireen noted that on weekends they train full-time, and P'Jib even told her mother that grades cannot be compromised.

While they love being in the agency and feel the team is like family, both admitted to crying from pressure when they felt they weren't improving fast enough. Saendee also struggled with feeling like an outsider when first joining and cried to her mother about it.

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National

Throwing Punches in the Corner – Anusit Style

PM Anusit dismisses critics as inexperienced while facing scrutiny over a 400 billion baht emergency loan, with opposition questioning whether 180 billion baht designated for a poor citizens card program should come from regular budgets ins

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Prime Minister Anusit Chanyaveerakul has adopted a distinctive response pattern when facing various criticisms, typically dismissing critics as lacking knowledge and government management experience. This approach has surfaced regarding the 400 billion baht emergency loan decree, where the first 200 billion was allocated for relief under the "Thai Helping Thai" program. However, opposition investigation revealed that 180 billion baht within the details was designated for the Pracharath Fund to finance the poor citizens card—raising questions about whether such funding should come from regular budgets rather than emergency loans justified by urgent necessity, clearly violating financial discipline standards. Were another government facing complaints to independent agencies, they would likely face serious scrutiny and risk removal from office, as has repeatedly occurred. Yet for this government, Prime Minister Anusit countered by framing it as a matter of experienced practitioners versus inexperienced critics, insisting the 5-page 400 billion baht loan request reflects efficiency. However, society awaits clarification because this 400 billion baht loan will ultimately be repaid not by Anusit or the cabinet, but by Thai citizens nationwide, making expectations for transparent and efficient fund management entirely reasonable. Subsequently, nine advisors met with the Prime Minister regarding disaster prevention coordination with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, which drew criticism from the Democrat Party regarding democratic principles with the monarchy as head of state. This prompted a heated rebuttal from Prime Minister Anusit, stating: "You don't even know how to manage a country, yet you dare criticize? This shows your lack of wisdom and maturity." This reflects confidence in 'country management' through 'Anusit style'—the belief that this is the correct and appropriate approach. Notably, whether this represents the secret to stable country governance remains to be seen. We'll have to watch and wait.

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National

Thaeng Reaffirms Stance Against Expanding Constitutional Court Powers Over Ethics Violations Following Sereepisthavet's Criticism of Democrat Party's Refusal to Support Anutin Probe

Democrat Party leader Nattapong Ruengpanyavutthi defended his party's refusal to support an ethics investigation against Prime Minister Anutin, citing concerns about expanding the Constitutional Court's powers over political matters. He mai

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On May 23, 2025, at 2:05 PM at Udomrangsee Temple in Bangkok's Nong Khem district, Democrat Party leader Nattapong Ruengpanyavutthi responded to criticism from Pol. Gen. Sereepisthavet Temiyawest and Free Thai Party regarding the Democrat Party's decision not to co-sponsor an ethics investigation motion against Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in the loan scandal case. Nattapong stated his willingness to discuss the matter openly with all opposition parties and acknowledged Sereepisthavet's good intentions to pursue the investigation, noting the Free Thai leader wanted Democrat support as well.

Nattapong explained that the Democrat Party has repeatedly stated it is not opposed to investigations and is prepared for thorough government scrutiny. However, the party must be cautious about using mechanisms like the Constitutional Court, which could expand its powers. He emphasized that the Democrat Party has consistently maintained a position against using ethics violation procedures to have the Constitutional Court rule that elected politicians violated ethics standards, arguing that ethics matters should be reviewed internally by each organization and party rather than treated as legal issues requiring court intervention.

When asked if Sereepisthavet's social media post suggesting hidden motives would hinder their ability to work together, Nattapong responded that he can work with anyone but prefers not to air disagreements publicly on media, since they are opposition allies who should discuss matters privately to understand each other's positions.

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National

Mew Gee Praiya Fires Back! After Being Linked to Net Idol Gambling Debt Drama, Challenges Critics to Produce Evidence

Influencer Mew Gee Praiya denies being linked to a gambling debt scandal involving a net idol, challenging critics to provide evidence while clarifying she supports her family and has no outstanding debts.

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Mew Gee Praiya Fires Back! After Being Linked to Net Idol Gambling Debt Drama, Denies All Involvement and Challenges Critics to Produce Evidence

Trouble continues for "Mew Gee Praiya" after several popular pages alleged that a well-known net idol is struggling with gambling debts, with friends waiting for bill settlements. The allegations claim she says she has no money but gambles every day, refuses to pay debts, and has sold off everything including birth control pills. Online users began connecting the initials to her.

Now the influencer herself has compiled headlines and issued a detailed clarification, denying any involvement and countering all allegations about debt, gambling, and asset sales amid intense online discussion.

She stated: "It's not me, thank you all for your concern.

1. I don't owe any friends money. #If anyone is owed money, report it in the comments below. 2. I don't gamble in any form. (You can investigate.) 3. I did sell assets, but the money went to support my family and the company during the crisis. 4. I'm confident about this – I don't take any birth control pills because I'm allergic!

Online users are now commenting with the abbreviation 'MK' (referring to another person). I'm not making excuses, but it's not me! This kind of thing can be investigated, you know.

Working to support my children, mother, siblings, nieces, nephews, and junior staff has exhausted me. It's okay if people don't love me, but please don't keep adding more false accusations. I understand the phrase now – don't kick someone when they're down. Kicking when someone's already fallen is real cruelty. I've experienced it. Thank you for all your encouragement and support."

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Community

Doctor Reveals 5 Tips for Public Transit Users to Reduce Disease Risk

A specialist doctor shares five practical tips for public transit users to minimize disease risk, including avoiding vehicle exhaust, keeping distance from sick passengers, sanitizing hands after touching shared surfaces, and bathing prompt

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A specialist doctor has unveiled five important tips for people using buses and public transportation to protect themselves during travel and minimize the risk of pathogen exposure.

Public transit today presents more than just traffic problems—it carries hidden health risks, particularly respiratory diseases that many people don't anticipate. Dust, smoke, pollution, and spending time in enclosed spaces with large crowds all increase the likelihood of contracting infections. Experts suggest that making small behavioral adjustments during travel can reduce illness risk far more than many realize. Dr. Hu Haochun, an ear, nose, and throat specialist from Fu Jen University Hospital, has shared five self-protection strategies for public transit users.

Five Ways to Protect Yourself During Travel and Reduce Disease Risk

1. Avoid Standing Near Vehicle Exhaust Pipes When waiting for the bus, don't stand too close to the road edge or directly behind vehicles, as these are points of direct exposure to exhaust fumes and dust. On high-pollution days, wearing a mask helps filter pollutants and better reduce respiratory irritation.

2. Choose Seating or Standing Positions Away from Sick Passengers Once on the bus, avoid crowded areas. If you notice a passenger coughing or sneezing, change your position immediately. Even small distances in enclosed spaces can significantly reduce airborne transmission risk.

3. Be Cautious of Handrails and Shared Contact Points Handles, pull cords, and card readers are major repositories of pathogens. Wash your hands or use alcohol sanitizer immediately after getting off. Avoid touching your face, rubbing your eyes, or touching your nose and mouth before washing your hands.

4. Bathe Promptly Upon Arriving Home After exposure to dust and pollution throughout the day, quickly wash your face, shower, or clean your nasal passages to prevent accumulation of fine particles and debris that could trigger respiratory inflammation.

5. Wear a Mask If You Start Feeling Ill If you develop a cough, sore throat, or nasal discharge, even if symptoms are mild, wear a mask during transit. This not only reduces transmission to others but also protects you from additional exposure in crowded areas.

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Tourism

Tourism Authority of Thailand Partners with 9 Organizations to Launch 'Village to the World' Initiative for Sustainable Tourism

Thailand's Tourism Authority launched Village to the World Season 5, partnering with nine organizations to develop sustainable tourism routes across royal project areas and model communities nationwide. The initiative aims to create communi

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The Tourism Authority of Thailand is advancing Village to the World Season 5 at the Sajouk-Sakiang Royal Agricultural Station in Nan Province by partnering with 9 major organizations to link 9 royal project areas and model communities across Thailand toward establishing a community-based tourism ecosystem.

On May 23, 2025, TAT Governor Thapanee Kiarti Paibul announced that Village to the World Season 5 represents TAT's continued commitment to promoting community-based tourism aligned with international ESG standards. The initiative emphasizes creating shared value among businesses, communities, and natural resources for sustainable growth. In its fifth year, TAT is bringing Her late Majesty Queen Sirikit's conservation vision to life through partnerships with 9 co-host organizations that will develop 9 sustainable tourism routes nationwide.

The project exemplifies Public-Private-Community Partnership, prioritizing meaningful experiences that cater to diverse interests while creating value for all visitors. It shifts Thai tourism toward quality, value, and sustainability.

The partnerships have resulted in 9 designed sustainable tourism routes nationwide:

1. TAT with Sajouk-Sakiang Royal Agricultural Station in Nan Province develops tourism attractions and homestays while promoting sustainable agricultural tourism for community self-reliance.

2. SE Thailand Association partners with the Royal Thai Navy's Sea Turtle Conservation Center in Sattahip, Chachoengsao to enhance sea turtle conservation and local fishing communities, linking them with social enterprises and promoting marine environmental sustainability.

3. Krungsri Bank collaborates with Koh Kret Arts and Crafts Center and Ayutthaya Province communities to preserve local wisdom and traditional crafts as part of Her late Majesty's conservation vision, ensuring Thai cultural identity endures.

4. PTT Energy and Thai Coffee Brand support Doi Buamoei Royal Agricultural Station in Chiang Mai by providing Arabica coffee seedlings and expertise to farmers, while developing nature-based and cultural tourism routes to strengthen highland communities.

5. PTT Global Chemical partners with the Mae Fa Luang Foundation to elevate the Thong Phitaksop Forest conservation project in Amnat Charoen Province into an ecological and cultural tourism route with a "Low Carbon Destination" learning area.

6. NEXTOPIA Siam Paragon collaborates with the Baan Lek Nai Payan Royal Project in Doi Dam, Chiang Rai to develop sustainable tourism routes in the forest community.

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Community

Pa Laong, Famous Used Shoe Vendor, Fights On: Heavy Rains Devastate Rocket Festival Sales, Turns Crisis into 'Free Hat Collection' Drive

Legendary used shoe vendor Pa Laong turned devastating Rocket Festival losses into a community triumph by offering free shoes with voluntary donations to cover her fuel costs home to Ang Thong Province.

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Pa Laong, a celebrated used shoe vendor who refuses to give up, has turned a devastating setback into an outpouring of community support after torrential rains destroyed her sales during the Rocket Festival in Kalasin Province. With all her capital tied up in inventory and travel costs, and no money for fuel or truck rental to return her unsold stock to Ang Thong Province, she relocated her operation and attempted to sell from a new spot. When sales stalled despite her efforts, Pa Laong made an unconventional decision on May 23, 2025: she would give away three pairs of free shoes to anyone who needed them, asking only for donations according to each person's means to cover her fuel and transport costs home.

Pa Laong is no stranger to hardship—she previously made national headlines after thieves completely cleaned out her used shoe shop in Udon Thani Province, yet she persevered and continued her honest livelihood. This time, her compassionate pivot transformed a crisis into a heartwarming community moment. On the morning she implemented her free distribution plan, locals from Khao Wong District and surrounding areas descended on her shop in continuous waves, not just to collect free shoes but to donate generously. The scene overflowed with warmth as residents contributed what they could, with many donating above the standard price, offering words of encouragement, and embodying the spirit of mutual support. The initiative revealed the best of community spirit—people giving freely to help Pa Laong return home with dignity.

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