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National

Abhisit reveals opposition submits today for Constitutional Court to interpret 400 billion baht loan decree, questioning Ekniti's true target

Thailand's opposition parties petition the Constitutional Court to review a 400 billion baht energy decree, arguing it exceeds constitutional limits for emergency spending when economic indicators remain positive.

11 May Khaosod

At 10:00 AM on May 11, 2025, Abhisit Vejjajiva, leader of the Democratic Party (DP), announced that the opposition will submit a request to the Constitutional Court at noon to rule on whether the 400 billion baht royal decree for addressing the energy crisis and transitioning to clean energy violates the constitution.

Abhisit stated that representatives from the Democratic Party met with the Pheu Thai Party on May 10 to discuss the petition, arguing that issuing the decree did not comply with constitutional conditions, which would only be justified for economic security reasons.

Abhisit highlighted the main issues: At least 200 billion baht of projects related to energy have little connection to current economic security needs. Comparing current economic indicators as of end-March from the Bank of Thailand's latest announcement—year-on-year exports are positive, investment is positive, consumption is positive, and the overall economy remains positive, including revenue collection through February meeting targets.

Abhisit emphasized that this is not about economic security and reaffirmed the party's position: While they acknowledge the economy is struggling due to war-driven oil price increases affecting production costs, the government's solution of spending 200 billion baht over four months is inefficient. He suggested that reducing excise tax for four months would cost only 60 billion baht, achieving the same result without violating constitutional conditions.

Abhisit criticized Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithaprasarn's dismissal of the excise tax cut as unfocused assistance, questioning what Ekniti really means by targeting and pointing out that the government itself hasn't opposed targeted measures like credit transfers through the state welfare card.

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National

Jeff Satur Reveals He Received Compensation from Series Producer, Emphasizes Everyone Should Protect Their Rights and Keep Contracts Clear

Thai singer Jeff Satur announced he has received compensation from a series producer after a legal dispute over unpaid wages and unauthorized use of his promotional image. He emphasized the importance of keeping all work agreements in writing and protecting one's rights before starting any project. Satur also teased an upcoming concert reunion called THE TITANS CONCERT featuring four talented artists.

11 May Khaosod

Jeff Satur Reveals He Received Compensation from Series Producer, Emphasizes Everyone Should Protect Their Rights and Keep Contracts Clear; Hints at THE TITANS CONCERT Reunion with Four Artists

Previously, Jeff Satur disclosed that he faced unfair work practices, including unauthorized use of his image for series promotion and unpaid wages from the producer, which led him to pursue legal action.

Most recently at the MITH event launching the new "LEGEND" fragrance at Central World shopping mall, Jeff Satur appeared as a new presenter. He then gave an interview about the contract dispute drama.

Will the Golden Throat trio reunite?

"I've wanted to perform with Nun and Kin for a long time. Back then we sang together casually but it turned out great. Once we actually performed together, I wanted to keep doing it. As a singer who gets to perform with two talented artists like them, it's really enjoyable. There are still many songs we haven't performed together."

Who selected the songs?

"The team chose them. They picked songs that fit perfectly as closing numbers."

How did the series situation turn out?

"Everything was settled legally. The compensation payment is approved. (Relieved?) Yes, it ended in the best way for everyone."

How long did it take to resolve?

"About a year, it dragged on quite a bit. (How did fans react?) They were happy. They got to see what they'd been waiting for."

Is this a lesson for future projects to pay more attention to details?

"Actually, since then I've learned that everything must be finalized on paper before starting any work. There won't be disputes during the job about whether this is the agreed-upon work or if this is what was settled on. Everything must be finalized on paper first. Many people think contracts are important—they really are the most important thing. Everything must be finalized on paper, then you do the work. I'm someone who's very strict about contracts, but once everything is settled, I'm very easy to work with during the actual job. Everything is already specified."

Were there any previous conflicts?

"Basically, I'm an easygoing person, but when circumstances become difficult, I have to protect myself. Everyone comes to work for their own interests, so I need boundaries. If something goes too far, I have to speak up. That's why everyone has the right to protect their own interests, and no one should violate those rights. I'm quite serious about protecting my rights. I used to be the type who would agree to anything, but ultimately that wasn't easy either. So I came to resolve these issues. Everything you think about must be written down. Don't be vague about anything. Everything must be clear."

The four-artist concert?

"It's a gathering of talented people like P'P, Bamb Baem, and Tham Thai. Each of them excels in their own way. Bringing us together will create something new and cool that we can do together."

Tickets are already on sale, right?

"Yes. I haven't really checked much yet. I was at the sports day event yesterday."

The concert sounds heavy and intense. Will there be cute and lovely concert moments?

"They won't let me go to heaven. I'm not sure what my character is like, but I kind of like it, honestly. It might suit my character. Let's stay in hell then. (laughs)"

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Community

Insurance Sales Agent Exceeds Quota, Sponsors Classical Dance Performance as Merit-Making Offering to Phra Rahu

Bangkok insurance agent Ms. Thidaratana sponsored a classical dance performance at Wat Srisathon in Nakhon Pathom as a merit-making offering after exceeding her sales quota, fulfilling a vow to Phra Rahu.

11 May Khaosod

At 9:09 AM on May 11, 2026, at Wat Srisathon in Nakhon Pathom province, home to a revered statue of Phra Rahu, crowds gathered to pay respects and seek blessings. Most presented eight black-colored offerings including chicken extract soup, black liquor, black coffee, honey, black beans, sticky rice, glutinous rice cakes, and duck eggs arranged on trays with black incense and black roses, after which the statue is covered with gold leaf. The atmosphere was lively with musical performances and dancers in traditional costumes performing at the sponsor's request.

Ms. Thidaratana, 35, an insurance sales agent from Bangkok's Sirirach area, explained that she travels monthly to pay respects to Phra Rahu and sponsors dance performances. She had made a vow that if her sales targets were met, she would commission a dance offering. Her quota was indeed exceeded, and she plans to sponsor another performance if next month's sales are equally strong. Before leaving, she donated 100-baht banknotes with the serial number 5 D 0 1 6 4 9 4 8, believing it to be an auspicious number for lottery play.

Wat Srisathon is renowned as the originator of Phra Rahu worship and houses the first and largest Phra Rahu statue. The temple was pioneered by the revered late abbot Luang Por Noi, known for developing the single-eyed amulet. Believers hold that paying respects to Phra Rahu dispels misfortune, enhances merit, and brings prosperity and good fortune in work.

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National

Globlex Sets Thai Stock Market Range at 1,470-1,545 Points in May; Recommends Accumulating Retail Stocks Amid 'Thailand Helping Thailand Plus' Stimulus

Globlex Securities forecasts Thailand's stock market will trade between 1,470-1,545 points in May 2025 amid Middle East tensions and global uncertainty, though the country is emerging as a safe haven amid improving economic fundamentals. The brokerage recommends investing in retail stocks such as CPAXT, BJC, TNP, and MOTHER, supported by government stimulus measures and revised GDP growth forecasts. Key economic indicators scheduled for May release, including Q1 GDP data and corporate earnings, will be crucial indicators for market direction.

11 May Khaosod

Globlex Securities (GBS) projects the Thai stock index will experience volatility within the 1,470-1,545 point range throughout May 2025, driven by Middle East tensions particularly around the Strait of Hormuz and uncertainty in US-Iran peace negotiations, which continue to create global investment uncertainty and oil price volatility. However, Thailand is positioning itself as an attractive safe haven, with Moody's rating the country as better prepared than many emerging markets to withstand future global economic shocks, reflecting improved risk balance for the Thai economy.

Domestically, optimism is bolstered by a revised GDP growth forecast from the Bank of Thailand following the government's authorization of a 400 billion baht borrowing decree, raising 2025 GDP growth estimates to 2.1% from 1.5%, while 2026 projections are lowered to 1.6% from 2% due to high base effects. Global markets remain supported by strong performance from Wall Street's technology and AI sectors, which drove S&P 500 profits to multi-year highs, while a US trade court ruling partially invalidating tariffs provides additional tailwinds to global trade.

Key domestic events investors should monitor this month include May 15 (first quarter 2025 financial statement deadline), mid-May investor confidence surveys, May 18 (Q1 2025 GDP announcement), the third week (automotive production and export figures), May 29 (Bank of Thailand economic report), and late May releases from the Commerce Ministry on international trade and various economic indices. Internationally, China's April consumer and producer price indices on May 11 will provide important economic signals during this volatile period.

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Breaking

Residents Alarmed as Crocodile-like Creature Spotted Floating in Lii River

A crocodile-like creature spotted floating in Lamphun's Lii River has alarmed residents, though authorities have yet to confirm its identity. Villagers are warned to avoid the river until officials complete an investigation.

11 May Khaosod

Residents in Lamphun are alarmed after discovering what appears to be a crocodile-like creature floating in the Lii River. Images of the mysterious animal, which resembles a crocodile's head and body, have been widely shared on social media, causing considerable concern among locals who suspect it may be a real crocodile. However, no official confirmation has been made by relevant authorities regarding the creature's actual identity.

Village leaders have issued warnings urging residents living near the Lii River to exercise caution and avoid swimming or approaching the area where the creature was sighted until a thorough investigation is completed. Residents are encouraged to report any additional sightings to local authorities or rescue personnel for immediate investigation.

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National

PM Chairs Meeting to Prepare for Thailand's World Bank-IMF Conference Hosting

Thailand will host the World Bank and IMF annual meetings in October, expecting 15,000 participants from 200 nations, with Prime Minister Anutin chairing preparations to maximize investment opportunities and ensure proper security and servi

11 May Khaosod

At 10:00 AM on May 11, 2025, at the Phakdi Bodin Building at Government House, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister chaired a national committee meeting to prepare for the annual meetings of the World Bank Group's Board of Governors and the International Monetary Fund's Board of Governors.

The Prime Minister stated that Thailand's hosting of these annual meetings in October represents a major undertaking comparable to the financial Olympics of the world. The conference is expected to draw approximately 15,000 participants from 200 member nations, including national leaders and high-level economic and financial policymakers ranging from finance ministers to central bank governors, financial institution representatives, and senior executives. This makes it an important forum for international economic and financial discussions.

The PM noted that Thailand's selection as host demonstrates the international community's confidence in Thailand within the global financial sector, and emphasized the need for cooperation from all relevant parties. He highlighted the significance of leveraging the event to attract international capital and investment into Thailand.

"The World Bank meeting brings the world's money holders to our country, so it's crucial that we maximize the opportunities to keep as much of that capital flowing into Thailand as possible," the PM said. He stressed the importance of welcoming these important figures, facilitating their needs, and ensuring their security throughout their stay, noting that some attendees hold positions as heads of state. He emphasized the need for cooperation from security agencies, police, military, and administrative officials.

The PM recalled that Thailand previously hosted such a conference 35 years ago in 1992 (B.E. 2534), and observed how Thailand has since elevated its status in the global financial sphere, opening up to international finance markets, capital markets, and financial instruments—developments that followed that first World Bank meeting.

For this year's event, held under the theme "Thailand's New Horizons: Empowering People, Building Resilience," the PM said Thailand will incorporate the principles of the Sufficiency Economy, which has significant value and worldwide recognition, presenting new opportunities for the country.

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National

Nani Hiranyakrit Lends Voice to Global Film "The Mandalorian and Grogu"

Thai actor Nani Hiranyakrit voices a character in the blockbuster "The Mandalorian and Grogu," premiering May 21st, describing the voice-acting role as a challenging commitment.

11 May Khaosod

Actor Nani Hiranyakrit provides voice acting for the blockbuster film "The Mandalorian and Grogu," opening up about the behind-the-scenes challenges.

M STUDIO studio is bringing a slate of acclaimed films to the Cannes Film Festival in France. Surachet Asuwareuanganan, M STUDIO's CEO, states: "Going to Cannes this year, M STUDIO is fully prepared. We're going to announce the potential of the Thai film industry, with 'Smingkao Kwang' representing production work that transcends previous limitations, and 'Kham Sarapap of Mor Pee' emphasizing the intensity of script and performance. Combined with projects like 'God Skin,' 'Suk Sud Tai,' 'Of Khek 2,' and 'Exchange Rian Laek Phi,' we're confident of receiving excellent reception from international partners."

Voice actor Nani Hiranyakrit, working on the blockbuster "The Mandalorian and Grogu" premiering May 21st, shares: "This is another challenging step for me, and I'm fully committed to this voice-acting work. I hope everyone will enjoy it and have fun along with me."

Yod Body Slam has entered the world of four-legged friends and is besotted with his new furry family member Solo, who recently transitioned from street dog to household pet. "Solo is now 10 months old. I take him to cafés, concerts—I want to spend as much time with him as possible. Wherever the stage goes, I take him along. The stage now calls for Solo, not me anymore. Fans even bring blankets, dolls, and necklaces for the dog instead. I've started a TikTok channel for him called 'Solo Tales' and an Instagram account 'Iamsolotales'—please follow! We're visiting dog parks and reviewing pet-friendly venues. Solo's becoming an influencer next," he laughs.

Bangkok Airways is organizing a half-marathon competition for 2026 titled "Bangkok Airways Boutique Series 2026," launching its first event in Trat with "Bangkok Airways Trat Half Marathon 2026" on May 23-24, 2026, at Trat Provincial Sports Stadium. Actress Green Asdaporn will join to add color and run alongside participants. Those interested can register at https://www.sansatan.com/bangkokairwaysrun

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National

Suchart Opens National Mangrove Seminar, Driving 'Blue Carbon' Toward Sustainability

Minister Suchart opened Thailand's 16th National Mangrove Seminar, emphasizing mangroves as a strategic resource for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 through blue carbon mechanisms. The event featured ecosystem restoration activities an

11 May Khaosod

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment hosted the 16th National Mangrove Seminar for 2025 under the theme "From Royal Grace to People: The Mangrove Botanical Garden" to commemorate National Mangrove Day. Minister Suchart Chamklin opened the event and led participants in ecosystem enhancement activities, planting over 10 plant species and releasing approximately 9,999 aquatic animals, while visiting exhibitions from Thailand Mangrove Alliance partners including PTT, SCG, and Dow Thailand, as well as research networks and community product booths from Chanthaburi province.

The seminar served as a national-level mangrove academic forum, featuring special presentations from Prof. Dr. Sanit Aksornkoae, chairman of the International Society for Mangrove Ecosystems (ISME), and Dr. Pinsak Surasawadee, director of the marine and coastal resources department. Minister Suchart emphasized that the government considers mangroves a "strategic resource" and is leveraging blue carbon mechanisms as a key tool to achieve Thailand's net-zero emissions target by 2050, reflecting the nation's readiness in knowledge, research, and public participation to develop a sustainable blue economy. Mangrove ecosystems serve as critical nature-based infrastructure that maintains the land-sea interface balance, reduces wave and wind severity, filters pollution, and functions as a powerful global carbon storage system.

Prof. Dr. Sanit Aksornkoae noted that mangroves today face multifaceted challenges from climate change, rising sea levels, and unsustainable resource use, requiring integrated mechanisms combining academic knowledge with proper management, and crucially, "building awareness and participation across all sectors" from local to international levels. He stressed that creating correct understanding and awareness of mangrove values forms the foundation for sustainable conservation and use.

Dr. Pinsak Surasawadee added that the department remains committed to rigorous and continuous mangrove conservation, restoration, and protection against encroachment.

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Regional

Panomdongruek residents celebrate rising cassava prices after border checkpoint closure blocks Cambodian imports

Residents in Panomdongruek district, Surin province are benefiting from the closed Thailand-Cambodia border checkpoint, which has pushed cassava prices up from 1 baht to over 2 baht per kilogram by blocking Cambodian imports. Local farmers, including a husband-and-wife team, are actively harvesting and preparing to plant more cassava, and they're requesting the government keep the border permanently closed and accelerate fence construction. Though concerned about potential renewed conflict that could damage their crops, residents have adapted to the border situation and recognize that keeping the checkpoint closed provides economic relief for local agriculture.

11 May Khaosod

Surin — May 11, 2026 — A reporter traveled to the Thai-Cambodian border area of Ban Thai Santisouk in Bak Dai subdistrict, Panomdongruek district, Surin province and found that residents are currently preparing for agricultural activities and harvesting crops for sale, particularly cassava. Cassava prices have risen from around 1 baht to over 2 baht per kilogram following the border checkpoint closure due to the recent Thai-Cambodian fighting and the government's decision under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to close the checkpoint and cancel the MOU 44 agreement.

Pranee Kamjaydpai and Sombat Malikaew, a husband-and-wife farming couple, reported they are urgently harvesting cassava from their 4-rai plot and preparing to plant cassava again next season. However, cassava seedlings are scarce and expensive this year, selling for 3-4 baht per plant or 40-50 baht per bunch, because residents planted fewer cassava last year due to having to evacuate twice during the border conflict.

Despite ongoing concerns about the border situation, residents have become accustomed to the challenges. They emphasize that worrying constantly won't help them make a living. Previously, when they planted long beans before evacuating, the crops were lost completely.

Residents are requesting the government keep the border checkpoint closed permanently, as it has positively affected agricultural prices—particularly cassava, which doubled from 1 baht to over 2 baht. With no Cambodian cassava entering Thailand, farmers can sustain themselves. They ask that if fighting breaks out a third time, residents be given time to finish harvesting.

Residents also support the government's cancellation of MOU 44 and severing relations with Cambodia by keeping the checkpoint closed, and they want the government to accelerate border fence construction.

Currently, the border area remains peaceful and under constant surveillance. Residents are living safely, though they remain concerned about potential future fighting that could damage their crops. Without proper care during evacuations, agricultural products suffer significant losses, reducing yields and income.

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National

Foreign Traders Delighted: Canada Loves Thai Jasmine Rice for Its Soft, Aromatic Character

Thai jasmine rice attracted strong buyer interest at Canada's largest food trade show in April, with international visitors praising its soft texture and aroma as Canada becomes a key market for premium Thai rice varieties.

11 May Khaosod

The Department of Foreign Trade revealed that Thai rice garnered strong interest at SIAL Canada 2026, Canada's largest international food and beverage trade show held April 29 - May 1. The event attracted over 850 exhibitors from 55 countries and 23,000 visitors from 78 countries, including importers, wholesalers, retailers, distributors, and restaurant operators.

Department Director General Arada Fuengtong explained that the trade delegation elevated Thailand's rice presentation under the concept "Think Rice Think Thailand," focusing on showcasing the distinctive qualities of Thai rice in terms of quality and standards while connecting Thai rice to the country's renowned food culture. The presentation highlighted how Thai rice serves as the foundation of Thai cuisine and can be adapted to international dishes.

The booth displayed diverse Thai rice varieties alongside popular Thai menu images, emphasizing "Thai Rice: The Heart of Thai Cuisine" while promoting Thai jasmine rice certification marks to build consumer confidence in quality and standards. Special attention was given to health-conscious options including brown rice and riceberry, which attracted over 1,000 visitors from multiple countries including Canada, the United States, Germany, France, China, South Korea, South Africa, and Ghana.

Visitors praised Thai rice, particularly Thai jasmine rice, for its excellent taste, soft texture, and aroma. They noted that Thai rice is readily available in Canadian supermarkets and Asian specialty shops. There was significant interest in health-oriented rice varieties like brown rice and riceberry due to their high nutritional value.

Arada noted that Canada is a major import market for Thai rice, especially premium varieties like jasmine rice. In 2025, Thailand ranked third in jasmine rice exports to Canada. Rice consumption in Canada is expanding due to growing Asian-Canadian populations and the popularity of Thai restaurants. Tourism also plays a key role, as travelers who experience Thai food during visits to Thailand increasingly purchase Thai rice domestically.

Canada represents a high-potential market with strong purchasing power and growing health consciousness among consumers. Thailand's diverse rice offerings—from premium jasmine rice to health-focused varieties—position Thai rice for continued growth in the Canadian market.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Ing Posts Family Photo with Thaksin and Shinawatra Family, Thanking Father for Never Letting Them Down During Difficult Times

Yingluck Shinawatra posted a family photo with former PM Thaksin, expressing gratitude for their unwavering support through legal troubles and difficult times.

11 May Khaosod

On May 11, 2025, Yingluck Shinawatra, former prime minister, posted an Instagram photo with Thaksin Shinawatra, former prime minister, and other family members including Panthongthaem Shinawatra, Pintongta Shinawatra, Pitthok Suksawat, Naththa Poungkham, and Nathpong Kunakornwong. In her caption, she wrote that the most important thing is that they have each other today. She expressed gratitude to her father for never making them feel burdened, even while facing his own most difficult circumstances. She thanked her siblings and in-laws for standing firmly together, and paid respects to her mother, now in her seventies, who continues to be their pillar of support and provides warm comfort for them to survive peacefully. She also thanked friends, fellow Pheu Thai party members, and the people who have stood beside them during their most difficult times, saying it means so much to them. The photo was taken at Chandad Saeng Home after Thaksin received his sentence reduction and returned home.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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