National

Susco Pushes Ahead with Pump Expansion, Adding 10 More Stations This Year with Focus on Smart Energy and EV

Fuel distributor Susco posted 7.1 billion baht in Q1 revenue while expanding its gas station network by 10 new stations this year, betting on electric vehicles and renewable energy to drive future growth.

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Susco released Q1/2026 results showing combined revenue of 7,067 million baht and net profit of 92.47 million baht. The company is moving forward with gas station expansion and non-oil business growth with high margins, targeting Smart Energy and EV to create a new S-curve for growth.

Chairitthit Simarojon, Managing Director of Susco Public Company Limited, a fuel distributor and energy business operator, revealed that despite facing multiple challenges from both domestic and international factors in the first quarter of 2026 (ended March 31, 2026), the company maintained strong performance through efficient management, cost control, branch administration, new business expansion, and careful strategic planning. The company is pushing to become a comprehensive Smart Energy & Mobility Solutions provider, confident this will support 8% revenue growth this year.

On branch expansion, the company targets opening 10 additional gas stations this year to meet growing demand, with plans to reach 280 total stations within two years.

The non-oil business continues generating steady returns, particularly the SUSCO SQUARE project currently operating at 4 locations. The Pinklao branch, launched in early 2026, serves as a model for future expansion. This business generates revenue from rental contracts while increasing customer numbers and service usage at gas stations, strengthening long-term revenue and customer base.

The company's electric vehicle (EV) business showed strong growth, with 2025 sales jumping 60% to 3,758 vehicles. The company forecasts Thailand's EV market will grow another 5.5-6% this year amid the clean energy transition and government support. Susco plans to expand EV leasing and financing services by at least 500 vehicles over the next two years, establishing these as important new S-curves for long-term growth and new revenue streams.

Meanwhile, the company continues expanding EV charger installations and solar rooftop projects to manage costs and develop energy business. Currently, 58 gas stations have EV chargers installed (143 charging points) and 53 stations have solar rooftops. Beyond supporting EV user growth and reducing long-term energy costs, these installations create additional energy service revenue opportunities and reinforce the company's clean energy business image.

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Weather

National Water Resources Office Reports Usable Water Down to 39% Nationwide—Central and Eastern Regions in Critical Condition

Thailand's water reserves have dropped to critical levels, with usable water nationwide at just 39% capacity and the central region at only 32%, as the country braces for heavy rainfall and flooding risks through mid-May.

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On May 15, 2569, the National Water Resources Office (NWRO) reported data as of May 14 showing total water volume across Thailand at 46,169 million cubic meters, with only 22,061 million cubic meters available for use—representing 39% capacity.

The central region has usable water reserves at just 32%, while the eastern region stands at 36%, both classified as critical levels. The western region maintains 66% and the southern region 61%, faring better by comparison. In the past 24 hours, Phang Nga Province recorded the heaviest rainfall at 154mm, followed by Chiang Rai at 96mm and Nakhon Phanom at 42mm.

Areas at risk of cumulative heavy rainfall over a three-day forecast period (May 14-16) exceeding 200mm include Amnat Charoen Province (Pathum Ratchawongsa and Mueang districts), Ubon Ratchathani Province (Kutkhaopun and Trakaerpheuchol districts), and Chiang Mai Province (Kalyaniwitthaya district).

Authorities urge residents in these areas to closely monitor weather forecasts and prepare for flash floods and flash flooding.

Hazard Warning Alert

The National Water Resources Office is issuing warnings for heavy rainfall areas from May 15-18 due to a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal combined with strengthening southwest monsoon winds, bringing increased rainfall across many Thai regions.

Particularly affected are the northern, northeastern, central, western, eastern, and southern regions. Residents should be alert to flooding, flash floods, mudslides, and impacts on agricultural areas, as well as disruptions to urban transportation.

Additionally, from May 17-21, warnings are in place for high tides in the Chao Phraya, Mae Klong, and Tachin river areas, which may cause water to overflow into low-lying areas along riverbanks, communities outside flood barriers, and certain transportation routes. Monitor for saltwater intrusion that could affect water quality for consumption and agricultural use in Bangkok and surrounding provinces, as well as nearby coastal areas.

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National

KTB, AIS, and OR to Launch CLICX Virtual Bank This June

Thailand's first virtual bank, CLICX, launches in June 2026 through a partnership between KTB, AIS, and OR, targeting gig workers, freelancers, and small business owners underserved by traditional banking. The platform uses AI and alternati

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KTB, AIS, and OR are preparing to launch CLICX Virtual Bank in June 2026, specifically targeting people with irregular income, daily wage workers, freelancers, delivery riders, taxi drivers, recent graduates, students, online merchants, and small business owners. On May 15, 2026, CLICX Virtual Bank announced that it has received authorization from the Bank of Thailand on May 14, 2026, becoming Thailand's first virtual bank born from collaboration among three Thai partners. The platform will combine strengths from three critical dimensions: digital technology connecting people widely, stable and reliable financial expertise, and an ecosystem integrated closely with consumers' daily lives.

CLICX is not merely a new banking app but rather a platform connecting finance to real life through embedded banking. Operating under the concept of "Bank in One," CLICX transcends being a mere digital bank to become a "Beyond Banking" service that seamlessly integrates financial services into everyday life. Development includes AI applications to enhance customer experience, analysis of real-life usage behavior, and alternative data to create comprehensive financial perspectives and better understand users—whether their lifestyle, communication, travel, or service usage patterns. Leveraging the Bank of Thailand's open data policy for consumer empowerment, CLICX will develop new credit assessment models using alternative data to expand financial access for all Thai people and businesses while improving debt repayment capability assessment beyond current models.

CLICX's core mission is driving financial inclusion by ensuring all Thai groups have equal access to services, especially those underserved by traditional finance—including people with irregular income, daily wage workers, freelancers, riders, taxi drivers, recent graduates, students, online merchants, and small entrepreneurs. These groups often face limitations with income documentation, financial history, or income formats. Alternative data revealing real behavioral patterns within their ecosystem enables better credit assessment. While not direct financial data, this helps reduce informal debt problems and informal economies while promoting financial literacy and positive financial behavior through behavioral finance concepts to encourage savings and long-term financial security.

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National

Election Commission Begins Hearing Major Senate Dissolution Cases; Weekly Monday Meetings Scheduled Despite Substantial Evidence and Documents

The Election Commission has begun hearings on major Senate dissolution cases, dedicating full Mondays to reviewing thousands of complaints and substantial evidence, with no specific completion timeline announced.

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On May 15, 2026, at the Tree City Five hotel in Pattaya, Sawaeng Boonmee, secretary general of the Election Commission (EC), announced that the commission has begun deliberating on major cases related to Senate dissolution. The EC is currently handling nearly 5,000 complaints, having already completed processing over 2,500 cases with 2,500 remaining to be resolved within one year.

Sawaeng confirmed that EC cases have never missed their statute of limitations except in special circumstances requiring time extensions, such as the Senate dissolution cases, which the commission is working to resolve as quickly, accurately, and fairly as possible. He explained that the EC has designated one full day per week for Senate dissolution case hearings—specifically every Monday—with Tuesday meetings reserved for administrative and general matters, and additional Wednesday sessions as needed.

The full-day meeting requirement for Senate cases is necessary due to the substantial volume of documents and evidence requiring careful review, though no specific completion date has been confirmed. Sawaeng acknowledged that while some may perceive the EC's progress as unclear, particularly in corruption cases that have already reached court, public perception often moves faster than actual legal procedures. He cited the scammer case as an example, noting that despite public pressure for immediate action, the EC must follow legal processes and await court decisions, which require time.

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National

Nail Salon Owner Speaks Out on Influencer Controversy, Defends Personal Choice

Nail salon owner Kamalwan defends influencer Nat Nissamanee's decision to quit gel nails, calling it a personal choice that won't harm the industry and arguing that technicians should respect differing opinions rather than criticize custome

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Online drama erupted after influencer Nat Nissamanee, known as "Nat Sabadprung," announced she was quitting gel nails to reduce chemical exposure and improve nail health. She emphasized this was a personal decision, not a recommendation for others. However, some nail technicians took offense, worried that the influencer's large following could negatively impact consumer views and their livelihoods, sparking heated online debates. Others countered that choosing whether to get nails done is a fundamental consumer right that shouldn't become drama.

On May 15, 2025, at 1:30 PM, Kamalwan, known as "Guk Gik," owner of Originail studio and representative of nail technicians, spoke with online media. She expressed that the issue wouldn't severely damage the industry as many feared, since it's a basic consumer right to decide whether to get nails done. She noted that whether an influencer or regular person shares an opinion, they have every right to do so. She believed it unlikely that people would quit nails simply following one influencer, since nail care is a matter of personal preference and taste that no single person can influence across entire society. She compared it to how someone might enjoy eating basil one day but change their mind the next—it's personal choice.

Regarding some technicians' posts criticizing the influencer, Kamalwan said it's irrelevant since customers ultimately decide for themselves. However, if technicians disrespect others' opinions, it could harm the industry's image and make people view technicians as closed-minded or dismissive of others' rights. She noted the nail industry is quite sensitive; even technicians and salon owners frequently had drama and arguments among themselves, but these weren't publicly shared until now, exposing internal issues to wider society.

Respect for differing opinions could improve Thailand's nail art community. If technicians and clients respected each other, the industry could gain greater international recognition, similar to beauty industries in other countries that developed by embracing diverse perspectives. Regarding the chemical concerns the influencer raised, Kamalwan argued that humans unavoidably encounter chemicals daily through food and environment—it's about the amount and protection methods. Complete chemical avoidance is impossible, so no one should be prevented from making health choices.

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National

Hudson Wants to Test Thailand's Attacking Play in Kuwait-China Warm-Up Matches

Coach Anthony Hudson selected only three defenders for Thailand's squad to test attacking play in June warm-up matches against Kuwait and China, while introducing new players Theerapat Prue Thong and Erawan Garnier to the senior team.

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Thai national team head coach Anthony Hudson revealed he selected only three defenders for the squad to test the Elephants' attacking play in the Kuwait-China warm-up matches. Thailand announced a final 23-player roster for FIFA warm-up matches in June against Kuwait and China, featuring new faces Theerapat Prue Thong from Consadole Sapporo and Erawan Garnier from France making their senior debut. Hudson stated: "This selection had several important factors. First, we're resting some players after a long league season just ended. Some are exhausted physically and mentally, while others have nagging injuries. We're using this opportunity for them to fully recover and give chances to other players to prove themselves and become future options, especially for the Asian Cup, so we have more depth. That's the selection criteria this time." "For the defender position, we selected only three players with the goal of adding more options to our attacking play. Left-back had very limited options, and some players needed rest from accumulated injuries throughout the season. We saw this as an opportunity for change. Importantly, I'm confident all three will meet the team's needs. The key is keeping some players fresh for future camps." "For center-back, Pelatpetch Arttangtham has been playing very well with Port FC, while Adisorn Promruk hasn't played much, but when given chances at Ratchaburi, I was impressed by his mentality and attitude when he played. I haven't had the chance to work with him before, so this is a good opportunity." "For midfield, I want to mention Weeratep Pom Phanthong and Thitiphand Puang Janthorn who got the call this time. I regret not calling them earlier for various reasons, but this is a good opportunity and both deserve it because I know they have quality and ability. This is a great chance to work together." "The attacking midfielders are mostly young players, and I'm excited about all of them. These young men have energy and hunger to play, plus a prepared game plan when not in possession. I think everyone will meet expectations and each has good form. Everyone has enough potential to play attacking football, attack, or disrupt the opponent's defense." "For Theerapat Prue Thong and Erawan Garnier, it's my job to help them understand how we play and what we'll do. I'll try my best in every way. We expect them to perform in our style, both in possession and out of possession, including off the field matters. This is my main responsibility to make them understand the game as much as possible." "For the forwards, Teerasil Dangda is clearly important. I always say a camp must have senior-level players who set standards and are good examples for younger and new players. In the previous two camps we tried to call Teerasil, but due to various reasons and nagging injuries, this time he's important as an example for everyone regarding composure and atmosphere of serving the nation, including what he does with his club. Teerasil's quality will elevate and set standards, creating an example for younger players.

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Police

Arrest of Former Chiang Dao District Official for Forging Registry Documents for Ming Chen Sun

Former Chiang Dao District official arrested for forging registry documents linked to a suspect charged with illegal weapons possession. The arrest was made during the Dragon Shadow Operation involving multiple anti-corruption and investiga

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Authorities have arrested a former Chiang Dao District official for fabricating registry documents on behalf of Ming Chen Sun, a suspect facing charges of illegal possession of military weapons and explosives. Deputy Interior Minister Ject Taisedsai is scheduled to announce the results of the Dragon Shadow Operation at 4 p.m. on May 15, 2569. The arrest followed a coordinated operation involving the Registry Security Threat Task Force (DOPA N.I.C.E.) under the Department of Local Administration, the Central Investigation Police Bureau (CIB), the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), the National Counter Corruption Commission (NCCC), and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI). The former district official was apprehended at the NACC Region 5 office in Chiang Mai City, Chiang Mai Province.

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National

Consumer Protection Panel to Propose Increased Lottery Prizes, Boosting First Prize to 10 Million Baht

A Consumer Protection Committee MP is proposing to nearly double government lottery prizes, including raising the first prize from 6 million to 10 million baht, citing the Lottery Office's strong profits and a decade without increases.

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On May 15, 2025, at parliament, Boonruay Yamchinda, a list MP from the United Thai Community Party and vice chair of the Consumer Protection Committee, announced the panel's first meeting agenda following a press conference. The committee aims to address consumer complaints and grievances, with Yamchinda personally pushing for increased government lottery prizes to be presented at the May 21 meeting.

"The proposal is to increase two-digit prizes from 2,000 baht to 5,000 baht, three-digit prizes from 4,000 baht to 10,000 baht, and the first prize from 6 million baht to 10 million baht," Yamchinda stated. "This falls within the committee's scope since it addresses public complaints from consumers who want higher prizes. The lottery has not increased prizes in 10 years, yet the Lottery Office generates massive profits annually. We should review prize money to ensure fairness to consumers."

Yamchinda added that if the committee approves, they will push forward aggressively by summoning the Lottery Office director to provide revenue and profit data for each year. The goal is to share profits with the public through increased social welfare programs, such as expanded education funds for poor students and increased school meal allowances currently set at just 20 baht per child.

"The Lottery Office should not take advantage of people whose prizes have not increased in years," Yamchinda said. "This appeals to the public because many Thais enjoy gambling. Increasing prizes is not spoiling people—it's a commercial matter that could also help reduce illegal underground lottery operations."

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Breaking

DSI Submits Over 10,000 Pages of Documents in Online Gambling, Money Laundering Case Against High-Profile MP Network

The DSI submitted over 10,800 pages of evidence against 27 suspects, including a Songkhla MP, for operating illegal online gambling networks and laundering proceeds across multiple countries.

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On May 15, 2025, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) compiled and submitted case documents to prosecutors at the Special Cases Office, consisting of 69 document items across 24 files totaling 10,866 pages. The submission seeks prosecution of those involved in charges including operating illegal gambling operations, money laundering, loan sharking, and conducting transnational organized crime activities for the Attorney General's consideration.

The case stems from Special Investigation Case No. 150/2568, which involves 27 suspects, including a national-level politician serving as a Member of Parliament. Through evidence collection, financial trail analysis, and transaction investigations, authorities found that the suspect group acted collectively as financiers and operators of illegal online gambling networks across multiple websites. The group laundered proceeds from online gambling offenses while employing deliberate strategies to obscure financial trails and avoid state agency detection. They utilized bank accounts opened by hired individuals and ordinary citizens to receive and transfer money related to the crimes, violating the Gambling Act of 1935 and the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 1999.

According to reports, of the 27 suspects named in arrest warrants, authorities have apprehended one female suspect who served as an online gambling website administrator, currently held in custody. This leaves 25 suspects still at large.

The remaining suspect is Chonnaphat Nakshan, MP from Songkhla representing the Palang Prachath Party, who enjoys parliamentary immunity. The DSI has coordinated with the Speaker of the House of Representatives to request bringing the suspect in for further questioning, as investigation revealed the establishment of gambling operation offices in neighboring countries. Due to his parliamentary immunity protection, Chonnaphat is not currently required to appear before special prosecutors. However, should the Speaker approve waiving his immunity, he would then be subject to further interrogation.

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National

Panel Discussion Highlights Sports Ministry as Response to Changing Context

Kasem Bundit University hosted a forum advocating for Thailand to establish a dedicated Sports Ministry, with international Olympic Committee member Patama Leeswadthiphuk arguing that separate governance would strengthen athlete development

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On May 14th, Kasem Bundit University's Center for Human Capital Innovation Development, partnering with network organizations, hosted an academic forum on "Thailand and the Future Sports Ministry" at the Pathamnart Room, Anoma Grand Hotel in Bangkok. The distinguished event featured Patama Leeswadthiphuk, International Olympic Committee member and World Badminton Federation president, as opening chair, alongside renowned experts in social affairs, political economy, sports management, and representatives from all divisions of the Tourism and Sports Ministry, attracting enthusiastic participation.

Associate Professor Rathpongse Bunyanuwat, director of Kasem Bundit University's Center for Human Capital Innovation Development, outlined the forum's objective to support government policy while creating meaningful public engagement and awareness through expert insights.

Patama Leeswadthiphuk presented Thailand's case for establishing a dedicated Sports Ministry, highlighting its benefits and added value, while citing successful international examples of how dedicated sports governance drives athletic development and excellence. She emphasized that successful sports development requires responsible support systems for athletes competing at Olympic and world levels.

Crucially, Patama stressed that sports matter as a crucible shaping youth who will become the nation's future. With each country maintaining different sports development structures, she argued Thailand needs a comprehensive sports development system. Establishing a separate Sports Ministry would represent a critical step in determining strategic policies to advance Thai sports across youth, community, professional, elite, and scientific levels, while also benefiting the national economy. A dedicated ministry would provide clear direction and ensure athlete welfare and support services before and after competition, while emphasizing good governance and ethical standards.

Moderated by Yuttapong Vichaydisit, former director of Thai Radio Station FM.99 and senior journalist, the forum invited multiple speakers presenting diverse perspectives.

Seksan Ngomsuwon, Deputy Secretary of the Tourism and Sports Ministry, noted that establishing a separate Sports Ministry is government policy, with the Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Pancharoen forming a working committee to study feasibility by examining international models before implementation. He highlighted that sports development is essential alongside economic development, with plans to separate tourism from culture.

Associate Professor Somchai Phakphasanvivat, independent economist and political scholar, observed that sports is a global signature and supports separating the Sports Ministry as a dedicated entity, linking it with youth activities to strengthen society and communities with concrete, tangible results. A Thai Sports Ministry would significantly benefit society and national development, particularly in human development including youth and all sectors.

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National

Director-General of Local Administration Launches 'Thais Helping Thais: Reducing Cost of Living Through Mobile Retail Network' Nationwide

Thailand launched a nationwide mobile retail program Friday to deliver affordable goods to communities and reduce living costs through cooperation between government agencies and private retailers.

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On Friday, May 15, 2569 at 10:00 AM at Samkok District Office in Pathum Thani Province, the Department of Local Administration under the Ministry of Interior officially launched the 'Thais Helping Thais: Reducing Cost of Living Through Mobile Retail Network' initiative simultaneously across all district offices nationwide. The program seeks to advance government assistance policies, reduce living costs, and enhance access to quality consumer goods at affordable prices in communities through the mobile retail network, an important mechanism for distributing goods to people across various areas.

The ceremony was presided over by Nuchcha Khothasiwilai, Director-General of the Department of Local Administration, accompanied by Ekavit Meepian, Pathum Thani Provincial Governor, government officials, local administrators, village headmen, private sector representatives, media, and local residents.

The Director-General explained the objective of the initiative in advancing this government policy, stating it operates through cooperation between the Department of Local Administration, Ministry of Interior; Department of Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce; Thailand Post; and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. The aim is to distribute essential goods at affordable prices to all citizens through the mobile retail network, an important mechanism for reaching people in villages and communities.

In Samkok District, approximately 10 mobile retail operators participated in the program, selling consumer goods at special prices to help reduce residents' expenses. The effort also received cooperation from modern wholesale and retail stores, as well as community enterprises in the area, offering discounted products throughout the event.

Following this, the Director-General and management team visited the 'Thais Helping Thais' product booths, met with mobile retailers, and launched the retail convoy before traveling to sell goods in Bang Toey Community, Samkok District, Pathum Thani Province.

The 'Thais Helping Thais: Reducing Cost of Living Through Mobile Retail Network' program has a key objective to help citizens access quality goods at reasonable prices, reduce living expenses, and sustainably strengthen grassroots community economics.

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