National

152 Teams Compete in Royal Cup Sepak Takraw Championship to Crown Thailand's National Champion

The 37th Royal Cup Sepak Takraw Championship will run April 28–May 4 in Bangkok, featuring 152 teams across seven categories competing to crown Thailand's national champion. The event aims to develop athletes and scout talent for the nation

25 Apr Khaosod

On April 25, 2569, the Sepak Takraw Association of Thailand held a press conference at the Alexander Hotel in Bangkok announcing the 37th Royal Cup Sepak Takraw Championship for 2569, with Assoc. Prof. Dr. Weerrsak Wisalaphon, Vice President of the Sepak Takraw Association of Thailand, and other officials present to discuss preparations for the competition.

The championship will take place from April 28 to May 4, 2569 at Island Hall, 3rd floor of Fashion Island shopping center in Bangkok, with 152 teams participating across seven categories: 1) Men's Sepak Takraw singles (42 teams), 2) Women's Sepak Takraw singles (29 teams), 3) Men's 4-person Takraw (39 teams), 4) Women's 4-person Takraw (21 teams), 5) Thai-style Loop Takraw (5 teams), 6) International Loop Takraw men (7 teams), and 7) International Loop Takraw women (9 teams).

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Weerrsak Wisalaphon stated that this championship aims to develop athletes toward excellence and scout new talent to strengthen Thailand's national team. The association is expanding viewing access through partnership with Thai PBS, broadcasting matches live online via Thai PBS platforms and the association's Facebook and YouTube channels, with key matches also shown on television. This competition serves as a platform to develop emerging athletes for the Thai national team while promoting sepak takraw sports to a wider audience.

No. 01 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

Buddhist Amulet Circle - The P. Malakul Medal

A rare Buddhist amulet blessed by venerated Thai forest masters Luang Pu Man and Luang Pu Fuen in 1949 was created by Sakon Nakhon's education department to honor donors supporting P. Malakul School. The article explores several consecrated

25 Apr Khaosod

"Understanding turmoil first leads to peace," according to the dharmic blessing from Luang Pho Cha Subhatto at Wat Nong Pa Phong in Ubon Ratchathani. Luang Pu Man Bhuraridatta, a pioneering master of Thailand's forest tradition, blessed the P. Malakul School medal, a unique amulet created around early 1949 by the Sakon Nakhon provincial education department at Wat Pa Ban Nong Phuea. The medal was distributed as recognition to donors who contributed funds to support education at P. Malakul School in Sakon Nakhon. The amulet features a five-sided bell-shaped design with a loop handle, depicting Buddha in meditation pose on the front. The reverse reads "In commemoration of the P. Malakul School celebration, Sakon Nakhon, B.E. 2492." After Luang Pu Man blessed it, Luang Pu Fuen Acharo of Wat Pa Udom Sompon performed additional consecration, making it exceptionally rare and highly treasured by collectors.

Another notable amulet is the Flicking Water Blessing Bell created by Luang Pho Ngoen of Wat Don Yai Hom in 1962 to raise funds for building a public school at the temple. This floating bell-shaped amulet depicts Buddha in a blessing gesture, with a water bowl beneath the palm, detailed facial features, and mystical yantra inscriptions on the back that bring prosperity to its owner.

The Maha Prab Luang Pu Suk medal was created in 2012 by Phra Racha Suddhisophorn while serving as abbot of Wat Pak Khlong Makham Tao in Chai Nat province. The anchor-shaped amulet features Luang Pu Suk standing with a staff surrounded by a 108-yantra circle, with Khmer script and protective yantras on the back, making it a popular collectible from Chai Nat.

The Luang Pu Hok amulet from Wat Rasat Rueng Suk in Chonburi was created in 2011 to support the construction of a new ordination hall. This bullet-shaped charm displays Buddha in meditation on a lotus, with sacred heart syllables and yantras inscribed on both sides, representing another highly sought-after addition to amulet collections.

No. 02 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Regional

Rising Star Yodtaenakeng Faces Off Against Saenleiang in KP Sunday Fight Headliner

Rising boxing prospects Yodtaenakeng S. Chokmeejai and Saenleiang Petchnongkee will compete in the main event of KP Sunday Fight on April 26th, broadcast live on True Vision NOW. The 119-pound bout features two talented 16-year-old fighters with contrasting styles—Yodtaenakeng's power and reach advantage against Saenleiang's clever ring tactics and technique.

25 Apr Khaosod

Two rising boxing talents will clash in the main event of KP Sunday Fight on Sunday, April 26th, 2569, as Rajadamnern Stadium prepares an exciting card. The main event features Yodtaenakeng S. Chokmeejai against Saenleiang Petchnongkee at 119 pounds, with the broadcast airing live on True Vision NOW from 8:15 PM onwards.

Yodtaenakeng S. Chokmeejai is a 16-year-old boxing prospect from Songkhla Province, known for his complete arsenal of techniques and punching power. His tall frame gives him a clear advantage in reach and fighting distance, with an impressive track record that marks him as a fighter with bright future prospects.

His opponent, Saenleiang Petchnongkee, is also 16 years old and hails from Buriram Province. Though seemingly at a disadvantage in reach, Saenleiang compensates with clever ring intelligence and flashy boxing technique, particularly excelling in strategic planning, counter-attacks, and dangerous elbow strikes. He represents a difficult-to-read fighting style with the ability to turn the tide at any moment.

This matchup clearly pits two different fighting styles against each other: Yodtaenakeng's fresh power and physical advantage versus Saenleiang's cunning ring craft. Boxing fans seeking excitement cannot miss this live broadcast on True Vision NOW on Sunday, April 26th starting at 8:15 PM.

Fans can watch the live broadcast on TrueVisions NOW. Subscribe to the Now Muay Thai package for 99 baht per month to enjoy live boxing daily throughout the week, plus access to extensive video archives and never miss important moments in Thai boxing.

No. 03 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Abhisit Hints at Interested Candidates for Bangkok Governor Position Under Democrat Party Banner, Including Both Approached and Self-Nominated Candidates

The Democrat Party is vetting multiple candidates for Bangkok Governor under its party banner, with both self-nominated and party-approached individuals in consideration. Party leader Abhisit Vejjajiva aims to unveil the party's candidate by early May, ahead of mid-May registration deadlines as the current governor's term concludes.

25 Apr Khaosod

Abhisit Vejjajiva, Democrat Party leader and list MP, indicated that the party is actively vetting multiple candidates interested in running for Bangkok Governor under the Democrat banner. The party aims to announce its candidate by early May, with registration expected mid-May, as the current governor's term is nearing completion. When pressed on whether the potential candidate would be from within the party, Abhisit laughed and said, "They'll be a party member soon enough." Asked whether an early May announcement was feasible, he confirmed the party would work to achieve this timeline given that registration would occur in mid-May.

No. 04 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Tourism

Temple Visits and Holidays – Paying Respects to 'Luang Pho Mai Kaen Chanthorn,' the Wooden Buddha Image of Khon Buri District

Wat Talingchan temple in Khon Buri District houses a century-old wooden Buddha image called "Luang Pho Mai Kaen Chanthorn" that locals revere as a protective guardian spirit granting blessings. The sacred temple also features a scenic viewp

25 Apr Khaosod

Wat Talingchan in Jrakhaihan Subdistrict, Khon Buri District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province is home to an intricately carved wooden Buddha image known as "Luang Pho Mai Kaen Chanthorn," estimated to be over 100 years old. Installed within the ordination hall, it is held in high reverence by locals who consider it a sacred protective deity that grants blessings and fulfills desires. The main image stands approximately 90 centimeters tall with a shoulder width of about 30 centimeters, depicted in a meditative seated posture with hands resting on the knees. Two smaller companion images, carved from what appears to be the same wood, flank the main figure.

Adding to the temple's spiritual significance is a remarkable giant tamarind tree in front of the ordination hall, requiring two to three people to embrace its trunk. At its base is a natural relief-like formation resembling a figure raising hands in reverence to the ordination hall, creating an aura of sanctity. According to Phra Athikan Bunpring Tewdhamma, the temple's abbot, community records indicate the Buddha image likely dates back well over a century. Documentary evidence of the temple's establishment includes sangha boundary marking records from 1943, suggesting the temple's founding predates this formal demarcation by many years.

Locals believe Luang Pho Mai Kaen Chanthorn serves as the village guardian spirit, with devotees petitioning for fortune, prosperity, and the fulfillment of wishes. The image is typically locked away securely and displayed only during important ceremonial occasions. The temple also offers stunning viewpoints overlooking the Mun Dam reservoir, with golden-peaked Chom Thong Mountain in the background, nicknamed "Fuji Khon Buri" for its resemblance to Japan's Mount Fuji. The viewpoint provides glimpses of the picturesque local lifestyle.

Previously, government agencies and the community collaborated to develop this viewpoint as a key tourist attraction for Khon Buri District, initially constructing a bamboo platform extending into the river above the dam. However, deterioration prompted renovation using durable hardwood to ensure longevity and safety for visitors.

No. 05 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

After last year's fighting with Thailand, Cambodia readies new conscription law for men aged 18-25

Cambodia's government approved mandatory military conscription for men aged 18-25, requiring two years of service following deadly border clashes with Thailand last year that killed about 100 soldiers and civilians.

25 Apr Khaosod

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (AP) — A law requiring Cambodian males aged 18 to 25 to serve in the military for two years has gained Cabinet approval following two spates of deadly combat last year with neighboring Thailand.

The new draft law on conscription will replace an existing law dating from 2006 that was never implemented and no longer addresses current and future needs, a government spokesperson said Friday.

The existing law specified 30 as the maximum call-up age. Women will be allowed to serve on a voluntary basis.

Spokesperson Pen Bona said the draft law, with eight chapters and 20 articles, was adopted by the Cabinet at its meeting on Thursday.

Fighting between Cambodia and Thailand flared twice last year over contending claims to territory along their shared border. Hundreds of thousands of people in both countries were displaced and about 100 Cambodian soldiers and civilians lost their lives. There has been no new fighting since a December ceasefire, though tensions remain high.

A government statement described military service as an essential duty and a great honor allowing the Cambodian people to contribute to national development and defend the motherland.

Prime Minister Hun Manet said in July last year when relations with Thailand were deteriorating that Cambodia would implement conscription this year. He said that soldiers joining through conscription are more effective and professional than a voluntary force, and that conscription will be used to fill shortages and upgrade military capabilities.

The legislation will be sent to the National Assembly and the Senate for approval, and become law once King Norodom Sihamoni signs it.

No. 06 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

Art and Culture Landmark – 1,000 Beloved Pet Portraits in One Day

MMAD and MunMun Srinakarin shopping center is showcasing the "1 Day, 1,000 Images: Pawtrait" exhibition, featuring 1,000 carefully curated pet photographs selected from over 12,500 submissions. The exhibition celebrates the bond between pet owners and their animals through diverse photographic perspectives and runs through May 31, 2025, in a pet-friendly space open to the public.

25 Apr Khaosod

With the pet parent lifestyle trend surging, MMAD and MunMun Srinakarin (MunMun Srinakarin shopping center) invite pet owners to discover the human-animal connection through 1,000 carefully selected photographs in the "1 Day, 1,000 Images: Pawtrait" exhibition.

This charming showcase curates 1,000 pet photography moments selected from over 12,500 submissions by more than 1,700 photographers. The images capture the personalities, identities, and bonds between pet owners and their animals from diverse perspectives. Presented as a large-scale photographic installation, the exhibition reflects the broader pet-loving community through the lens of photographers from various backgrounds.

Prepare to bring your dogs and cats to check in and share your cute lifestyle moments in a pet-friendly area. The exhibition runs today through May 31, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM (free admission) on the first floor of MMAD, MunMun Srinakarin (CentralWorld).

Stay updated on new ideas and join the art and design community with MMAD, MunMun Srinakarin (CentralWorld) on Facebook and Instagram: MMAD – MunMun Art Destination and MunMun Srinakarin.

No. 07 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

Commemorating 166 Years Since the Birth of Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa

A merit-making ceremony was held on April 12, 2569, to commemorate the 166th anniversary of the birth of Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa, a pioneering figure in Thai Buddhist education and the 10th Supreme Patriarch of Bangkok. Born as a son of Rama IV, he established educational curricula for monks, founded Maha Makut Rajvidyalai, and laid the foundation for Thailand's primary education system. UNESCO recognized him as a significant world figure in education, public service, humanities, and religion.

25 Apr Khaosod

On Sunday, April 12, 2569, Somdet Phra Maha Veerawong (Suchin Akkachino), a committee member of the Maha Therasmakom and director of Mae Kong Tham Sanam Luang, presided over a merit-making ceremony dedicated to Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa on the 166th anniversary of his birth, along with offerings to former leaders of Mae Kong Tham Sanam Luang. The ceremony took place at the Conference Room of the Education Council Building at Maha Makut Rajvidyalai in Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, Phra Nakhon District, Bangkok.

Mae Kong Tham Sanam Luang arranged the merit-making ceremony with dedicatory offerings to Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa and former masters to show gratitude to him as a pioneer in establishing Buddhist education and the lineage of senior monks who have continuously managed Pali scriptural studies to the present day.

Foundation manager Thang Thong Chantarangsuk of Maha Makut Rajvidyalai Foundation under Royal Patronage and foundation staff participated in this merit-making ceremony dedicated to former leaders of Mae Kong Tham Sanam Luang.

Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa was a son of Rama IV and served as the 10th Supreme Patriarch of Bangkok, as well as the 3rd Abbot of Wat Bowonniwet Vihara.

Phra Ajarn Man Phuritatto recounted that the most venerable figure of Rama IV's reign was Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa, the King's own son, who was the first to begin this path. He commenced studying Pali language at the age of eight, eventually becoming able to translate Buddhist texts. When Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Pawesvarig Langkorn, the 8th Supreme Patriarch of Bangkok, passed away in 1891, King Rama V graciously appointed Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa to continue administering Wat Bowonniwet Vihara, making him the 3rd Abbot.

Later, in 1893, King Rama V graciously promoted his monastic rank to Somdet Phra Rajakhana, Chief of the Thammayut Order. He then began developing Buddhist activities by supporting newly ordained monks and novices in studying Thai Buddhist doctrine and establishing this as an educational curriculum for the Sangha called 'Nak Tham' studies, which remains the foundational monastic education curriculum to the present day.

He established Maha Makut Rajvidyalai in 1893 as a pioneering initiative in new monastic education—combining Pali scriptural studies with other practical subjects conducive to Buddhist teaching—and designated it as an educational institution for both monks and novices.

In 1894, he published the journal 'Tham Chaksu' and expanded monastic education throughout the kingdom by making temples into schools with monks as teachers. This represented the establishment of Thailand's primary education system. Later, in 1910, he was graciously appointed as Somdet Phra Sangkharaj, the 10th Supreme Patriarch of Bangkok.

Somdet Phra Maha Samana Chao Krom Phraya Wachiryananvarorsa suffered from tuberculosis and passed away on August 2, 1921, at Wat Bowonniwet Vihara in Bangkok at the age of 61. Through his exceptional wisdom and immeasurable contributions, UNESCO recognized him as an important figure of the world in the fields of education, public service, humanities, and religion in 2021.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Community

Weekly Horoscope – Probability Trends for the Week (April 26 – May 2, 2025) Check Your Charm with the Public, Financial Loss from Construction Projects, Avoid Signing Important Documents

This weekly horoscope by Sethaput Lakna provides probability trends and astrological guidance for different zodiac signs from April 26 to May 2, 2025. Each sign receives specific advice on fortune, financial matters, relationships, and potential challenges to navigate during the week. The forecast emphasizes caution in financial dealings, careful communication, and patience during difficult circumstances.

25 Apr Khaosod

Weekly probability trends (April 26 – May 2, 2025) by Sethaput Lakna.

Aries natives will have sharp wit and many livelihood opportunities this week. You'll find unexpected income from beauty, art, communication work, or serving as a special instructor at various institutions. This is a favorable period where your communications benefit yourself and help resolve immediate problems for your group. However, enemies will be very close during this time, and past mistakes may become tools for them to attack you when opportunity arises. Family members may cause loss of benefits or distance themselves temporarily. Nevertheless, you'll need to exercise greater patience than others.

Taurus natives will have charm with the general public this week. Most matters you bring to authority figures will succeed, but awaited negotiations and business dealings may disappoint. Your wit may not match competitors and those around you. Sometimes sensitivity prevents you from solving both personal and public problems. You may become tired of relatives' improper conduct or wish to temporarily relocate far away. Enemies will naturally separate from you without requiring action on your part, and this is a good opportunity to turn enemies into friends, even if they've caused you hardship before. You should speak less during this period.

Gemini natives will gain benefits from travel or experience good fortune during journeys this week. However, don't expect gains from distant contacts or foreign language speakers. Avoid involvement with modern equipment or high technology. Abandoned ventures may resurface to discredit or embarrass you. Don't delegate important tasks to subordinates or dependents without close supervision, as you're prone to trouble from people with inferior qualifications and maturity. Nevertheless, your current business will progress further after May 2025 ends.

Cancer natives will need to endure diverse situations this week and may face crises requiring greater composure and prudence than usual, even learning to smile in the face of danger. Don't panic or overreact to mistakes, as when your time comes, you'll benefit from your own actions without extra effort. Beware of theft of important documents or valuable contracts. Education and exams at all levels may require more effort to match others' performance. You may have to leave your residence unwillingly.

Leo natives will have sharp thinking this week. You'll be able to invest in major ventures with proper support from authorities and knowledgeable people. You'll spend money on construction or home improvements to better suit work and communication, or happily spend on family members' comfort. Acting as a broker or mediator in disputes will bring success and benefits. You'll solve various problems with intelligence and understanding. However, you shouldn't let others see or display ostentatious behavior, especially regarding opposite sex or romantic matters.

Virgo natives will have good fortune this week...

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Research Shows 'Something You Might Already Be Doing' Can Reduce Premature Death Risk by 45%

A new study found that elderly voters had up to 45% lower mortality risk in the five years following the 2008 U.S. presidential election, with benefits persisting for up to 15 years, suggesting voting may have protective health effects beyo

25 Apr Khaosod

New research is opening an intriguing perspective that voting may not just be a democratic responsibility but could also affect human health and lifespan, particularly among elderly people. Scientists built on previous research about altruistic behaviors such as volunteering, which have already been shown to benefit health, but this time they wanted to see whether voting behavior would have preventive health effects.

Results published in the Journals of Gerontology found that among elderly people, voting in the 2008 U.S. presidential election was associated with reduced risk of premature death and could be linked to increased longevity of up to 15 years. Researchers tracked health data of participants, comparing those who voted with those who didn't, and analyzed mortality risk over 5, 10, and 15 years following the election.

Results showed that the voting group had significantly lower mortality risk, with reductions of up to 45% in the first five years, and these benefits persisted long-term. Notably, those who benefited most were people with poor baseline health who still went to vote, showing continued positive effects lasting up to 15 years.

Researchers explained that these results cannot be explained by common factors like income, education level, social participation, or even political affiliation, suggesting there are more complex behavioral and social factors at play.

Overall, scholars view voting as part of a cycle connecting health and public policy, since health affects voting while election results influence laws and policies that impact public health, such as infrastructure, pedestrian safety, and access to public spaces.

Researchers thus propose that promoting voting access should not be viewed solely as a political matter but could also be part of public health promotion, especially in aging societies that need greater participation and social connection.

No. 10 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Police

Joint Drug Enforcement Task Force Intercepts Major Methamphetamine Smuggling Operation Across Mekong River in Tha Uthen District, Seizes 500 Kilograms of Ice

Thai security forces seized over 500 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine during an interception operation along the Mekong River in Tha Uthen District, Nakhon Phanom Province on April 24. Two suspects managed to escape back to Laos by boat when authorities attempted to apprehend them. The confiscated drugs, valued at a substantial amount, were transferred to police for legal action and investigation.

25 Apr Khaosod

Security forces under the Northeast Border Drug Suppression and Control Command, operating through Nakhon Phanom Province's Drug Control Center and Tha Uthen District's Operation Center in coordination with local volunteer territorial defense units, successfully intercepted a drug trafficking network crossing the Mekong River. Officers seized a large shipment of crystal methamphetamine (ice) weighing approximately 500 kilograms across 12 sacks with substantial market value. Two suspects quickly fled back to Laos by boat when officers revealed themselves for inspection.

The operation occurred on the evening of April 24 after authorities received intelligence about an illegal drug shipment being transported across the Mekong River near Tha Uthen village. Officers established surveillance patrols and detected a suspicious boat arriving from across the border with two individuals, who were placing sacks on the riverbank stairs. When confronted, the suspects immediately escaped by boat to Laos.

All confiscated drugs were transported to Tha Uthen District office for detailed inventory before being handed to Tha Uthen Police Station for legal proceedings. Authorities are pursuing the fleeing suspects. This incident reflects ongoing drug trafficking networks' continued use of the Mekong River border as a smuggling corridor, prompting officials to intensify patrol and interception operations in the area.

No. 11 of ∞ Read at source → Next