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National

Bedrock Analytics Drives Thai Municipalities Toward Smart Cities with AI and Big Data Solutions

Bedrock Analytics showcased AI and Big Data solutions at Thailand's Municipal Association conference aimed at transforming local governments into "Smart Cities" equipped to manage disasters and revenues more efficiently. The technology inte

5 May Khaosod

Bedrock Analytics (Bedrock Analytics) is advancing the capabilities of Thai local government organizations by demonstrating the potential of AI and Big Data technology at the Thai Municipal Association's 1/2569 conference, with the goal of transforming municipalities across the country into "Smart Cities" that are prepared to handle disasters promptly and manage local revenue efficiently.

Bedrock Analytics Limited, a subsidiary of AI and Robotics Ventures Limited (ARV), specializes in developing data management infrastructure and providing artificial intelligence platforms and location intelligence services. The company showcased its technology and innovations at the Thai Municipal Association's (TMA) first academic seminar of 2569 at Impact Challenger in Muang Thonburi, with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul serving as the keynote speaker, alongside numerous municipal administrators and personnel from municipalities nationwide.

Amidst mounting and unpredictable disaster challenges, Bedrock Analytics recognizes the urgent need to place data at the center of city management, elevating municipal capacity as the frontline organizations closest to citizens. The goal is to shift from reactive problem-solving to precise and timely proactive planning.

Veeravat Rattanavaraaha, co-founder of Bedrock Analytics Limited, stated: "It's undeniable that we currently live in an era of climate variability and intensifying disasters. Reactive municipal management that waits for problems to occur before solving them is no longer viable. Bedrock Analytics aims to revolutionize city management into a new era, viewing 'data' as the best protective shield. We've integrated AI technology with location intelligence analysis to work together in real-time, enabling local agencies to accurately forecast risks, issue warnings, and develop proactive response plans. The key to advancing toward a 'Smart City' isn't just cutting-edge technology—it's the readiness to genuinely protect people's lives and property."

During the event, Bedrock Analytics presented solutions and digital platforms that enable municipalities to use data as the foundation for decision-making in city management, from disaster management to urban data analysis and local revenue collection optimization, including:

Comprehensive Smart Disaster Management Technology This technology transforms how local agencies handle flooding through a more systematic approach, supporting the complete cycle from preparedness before incidents through emergency response to post-flood recovery. The system's strength lies in integrating smart telemetry data with advanced area survey technology, processing and displaying comprehensive information through a single command center. This enables real-time risk assessment and disaster alerts while supporting emergency route planning and infrastructure damage assessment with efficiency and precision.

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National

Krung Thai Bank Launches 18 New Depositary Receipts Focused on Global-Class Companies and Alternative Assets

Krung Thai Bank is launching 18 new Depositary Receipts covering technology, rare earth minerals, and consumer goods to give Thai investors easier access to global companies. Trading begins May 13, 2025.

5 May Khaosod

Krung Thai Bank is preparing to debut 18 new Depositary Receipts (DRs) covering technology, rare earth minerals, consumer goods, and future industries, providing Thai investors with convenient access to world-class companies.

Executive Ravint Bunyanusasn from Krung Thai Bank's Money Market and Capital Market Business Group stated that the bank is committed to developing investment products that make it easier for Thai investors to access quality global companies through the Thai stock market.

Most recently, the bank has issued 18 new Depositary Receipts for foreign securities, carefully selecting assets aligned with long-term growth mega-trends including digital technology, clean energy, modern consumption, and rare earth minerals that are crucial to future industries. The offering also includes alternative assets and gold-backed funds to help diversify risk and increase portfolio flexibility.

The new DR package covers 18 leading securities across four major industry groups:

Technology Group (4 securities): Led by SoftBank Group Corp. (SOFTBANK80), a Japanese telecommunications company that has expanded its role into global technology investments through SoftBank Vision Fund, holding stakes in OpenAI and major AI projects like Project Stargate. Also included are Arista Networks (ANET80), SanDisk Corporation (SNDK80), and Montage Technology (MONTAGE80).

Energy and Rare Earth Group (6 securities): Led by MP Materials Corp. (MP80), the only rare earth mining operator in the United States with government support to reduce dependence on China. Also included are NextEra Energy (NEE80), GE Vernova (GEV80), JL Mag Rare-Earth (JLMAG80), China Northern Rare Earth (Group) High-Tech (CNRE80), and SPDR® Gold Shares ETF (GOLDUS80).

Global Consumer Products Group (4 securities): Led by Midea Group (MIDEA80), a leading Chinese electrical appliance manufacturer expanding into robotics and industrial automation. Also included are Kweichow Moutai (MOUTAI80), Mao Geping Cosmetics (MAOGEP80), and Mixue Group (MIXUE80).

Future Industries Group (4 securities): Led by Coinbase Global (COIN80), a leading U.S. digital asset trading platform serving as both exchange and custodian for over 1,000 financial institutions worldwide. Also included are AbbVie (ABBV80), Rocket Lab Corporation (RKLB80), and The Boeing Company (BOEING80).

"The launch of these new DRs enhances opportunities for convenient, transparent, and standardized access to foreign investments, addressing Thai investors' needs at all market conditions. It enables investors to plan confidently and achieve their long-term financial goals," said Ravint.

Existing securities account holders can invest in Thai baht through the Streaming application immediately without pre-subscription. Those without securities accounts can open one independently through KTX on the Krungthai NEXT application, receiving the same benefits as direct foreign investment.

Trading of all 18 DRs will commence on May 13, 2025. DRs referencing Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Japanese stocks can be traded between 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM. DRs referencing U.S. stocks and U.S. ETFs can be traded in two sessions: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM and 7:00 PM – 2:45 AM (T+1).

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Community

The 1 Day Mini Showcase: Artists Bring Entertainment Through Mini Concerts Across Four Regions of Thailand

The 1, Thailand's leading digital lifestyle platform, is hosting "The 1 Day Mini Showcase" across four Central malls in May 2026 with mini concerts from popular artists PERSES, RYUJIN x PATJI, PIXXIE, and LATTE x KIM. The 1 members can enjoy exclusive activities, prizes, and discount coupons from partner retailers by showing their membership status at participating venues throughout the month.

5 May Khaosod

The 1, Thailand's number one digital lifestyle and loyalty platform under Central Group, is launching "The 1 Day Mini Showcase," a four-region nationwide tour under the "The 1 Day 2026" campaign—the year's biggest shopping phenomenon with month-long deals. Events will be held at Central Pattaya, Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek, Central Chiangmai, and Central Udon, featuring mini concerts from PERSES, RYUJIN x PATJI, PIXXIE, and LATTE x KIM, along with activity booths, prizes, and discount coupons from Central malls, Tops, GO Wholesale, Thai Watsadu X BnB Home, Supersports, and Power Buy throughout May.

The 1 members simply need to show their membership status on The 1 APP or present their Central The One credit card to access special seating zones and enjoy exclusive activities during May 2026.

Schedule: - May 3: PERSES at Central Pattaya, 4:00 PM - May 9: RYUJIN x PATJI at Robinson Lifestyle Ratchaphruek, 4:00 PM - May 16: PIXXIE at Central Chiangmai, 4:00 PM - May 24: LATTE x KIM at Central Udon, 4:00 PM

Download The 1 APP from App Store, Play Store, and Huawei AppGallery to stay updated on news, promotions, and exclusive member benefits.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Fireworks Factory Explosion in Liuyang Kills 21, Injures Over 60

A major explosion at a fireworks factory in Liuyang, central China killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others on May 4th. Rescue teams evacuated residents within a 3-kilometer radius and deployed nearly 500 personnel along with robots to search for survivors, while authorities investigate the cause and pursue accountability measures. The blast highlighted ongoing safety concerns in China's fireworks industry, following another deadly explosion at a fireworks facility in February.

5 May Khaosod

A devastating explosion at the Huasheng Fireworks factory in Liuyang, Hunan Province, has claimed at least 21 lives and injured 61 others. Nearly 500 rescue personnel were mobilized to search for survivors and treat the wounded, with robots deployed to help locate workers potentially trapped inside the facility. Authorities evacuated all residents within a 3-kilometer radius of the plant as a precaution. Police are investigating the cause and will pursue strict accountability measures against company officials responsible for the blast. Officials identified two gunpowder storage warehouses within the factory as high-risk areas and implemented safety measures including area humidification to prevent secondary explosions during rescue operations. The force of the blast was so powerful that windows in nearby residential buildings were shattered. Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for an expedited search and rescue effort and ordered a thorough investigation to hold those responsible accountable. Liuyang, known as the world's largest fireworks manufacturing hub, has experienced repeated industrial accidents. In February, another fireworks shop explosion in Hunan Province killed 12 people and caused numerous injuries.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Wife Heartbroken: Buddhist Monk Has Affair with Her Husband, Intimate Chats Revealed, Even Proposes Three-Person Relationship

A woman discovered her husband of 23 years was having an affair with a Buddhist monk after finding intimate chats and explicit photos on his phone; the monk even proposed they live together as a polyamorous trio, forcing her to leave with j

5 May Khaosod

According to a report, a popular talk show discussed the case of a woman whose marriage collapsed after 23 years of marriage when she discovered her husband was secretly involved with a Buddhist monk. She was even pressured to accept a three-person relationship arrangement, causing immense pain. She left home with only 6,000 baht and sought help from a lawyer named Pattana for housing assistance.

The woman, known as Jah, explained that she had known her husband for 23 years and been legally married for about 5-6 years. Throughout their relationship, her husband had been caring and responsible, supporting their children well. He worked as a factory employee and later drove for a ride-sharing app. He was known as a kind and beloved person with no history of infidelity—until November 2568 (2025).

Her husband asked to borrow the car to pick up and drop off a monk for two consecutive days, claiming it was for a client. On the second day, he called her via video and sent a photo of the monk to confirm he had taken him to the temple in Korat. She didn't suspect anything then.

The truth emerged on New Year's Day when Jah saw her husband secretly chatting with someone, using the word "darling" and expressing affection. When she secretly checked his phone, the profile showed a man in a suit, but the messages contained New Year's wishes and declarations of deep love. She began monitoring his chats whenever he went to the bathroom. Initially, she thought it might be a woman using a man's photo, but by mid-January, she confirmed from photos and the profile's timeline that he was actually communicating with a Buddhist monk.

When she confronted her husband about the person's identity, he claimed it was a friend and said that saying "I love you" to the monk was an expression of faith, as the monk was a good person to talk to about everything. He admitted he no longer loved her.

Jah noted that her husband normally spoke to her casually using "I-you" language, but when talking to the monk, he spoke sweetly and referred to himself differently. She also had evidence of chats from February-March showing a clear sexual relationship, including explicit photos and sexual toy selections sent by the monk. Her husband responded: "Just touching yours would make me unable to control myself," which legal experts and the program host viewed as clear evidence of sexual activity.

Further evidence included photos of the monk wearing her husband's shirt while they went out to eat together. According to monastic discipline, this constitutes a violation known as "cross-dressing" or emulating a lay person's appearance, though it may not technically constitute disrobing unless there's intent to remain as a layperson.

The most shocking revelation was that the monk proposed they all live together as a polyamorous trio. Her husband told her that if she couldn't accept this, she would have to divorce and leave the house. Jah confirmed she is determined to fight for her dignity and rights.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Fantastic News! Suchart Celebrates Ao Kuak's Recognition as One of the World's Top 10 Beaches in 2026, Vows to Maintain Standards

Ao Kuak beach in Phang Nga's Similan Islands National Park ranked 10th globally in the 2026 World's 50 Best Beaches list, with Thailand's environment minister pledging to maintain strict conservation standards to preserve the site's pristin

5 May Khaosod

Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed delight and pride in the success of Ao Kuak within the Similan Islands National Park being ranked among the world's top 10 beaches for 2026. He thanked park officials for their strong natural resource management and emphasized maintaining strict management standards to preserve this world-class beauty sustainably.

On May 5, 2026, the global rankings of "The World's 50 Best Beaches 2026" were announced by a network of over 1,000 tourism experts worldwide. Ao Kuak (Donald Duck Bay) within the Similan Islands National Park achieved the 10th position globally.

This recognition reflects the bay's outstanding natural beauty, complete ecosystem integrity, and unique characteristics acknowledged on the international stage.

Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed his joy and pride in this success, thanking the Department of National Parks staff and all relevant parties for their strong commitment to natural resource management. He emphasized maintaining strict management standards and using this achievement as a model to elevate national parks throughout the country, promoting Thailand's conservation-based tourism for sustainable growth and international recognition.

Athitpol Charoenchansri, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, noted this success as a point of national pride, reflecting the effectiveness of proactive management measures including visitor capacity limits, seasonal resource rehabilitation closures, and strict waste management, which help maintain high-level marine and coastal ecosystem integrity.

Sirivat Supsai, Director of Similan Islands National Park, explained that Ao Kuak on Eighth Island (Similan Island) features crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and the distinctive "Sailing Stone" rock formation that attracts visitors worldwide. Balancing tourism with conservation and cooperation from operators and visitors have been key factors in gaining international recognition.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation affirmed its commitment to conserving and protecting invaluable natural resources, ensuring this world-class beauty remains for Thailand and future generations in a sustainable manner.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

First-time cannabis use leaves Chinese man in distress at Pattaya shop

A 35-year-old Chinese tourist suffered a severe medical emergency at a Pattaya cannabis shop after using the substance for the first time, experiencing muscle spasms, breathing difficulties, and persistent vomiting. Emergency responders arrived at the "Bow Thailand" shop and provided initial treatment with ammonia inhalants, though the man refused hospitalization. Health authorities have warned that first-time and inexperienced cannabis users, particularly those trying potent strains, face heightened risks of adverse reactions.

5 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — A Chinese man reportedly suffered severe adverse symptoms after trying cannabis for the first time, prompting an emergency response at a Pattaya shop. The incident was reported at 01:30 to the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Centre. Responders were dispatched to a cannabis shop identified as "Bow Thailand" in Soi 15, Pattaya Second Road, South Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district.

At the scene, a 35-year-old Chinese national was found experiencing muscle spasms, laboured breathing, chest tightness and persistent vomiting. Friends had attempted to assist by applying cold compresses, but his condition did not improve.

Rescue personnel provided initial assistance, including the use of ammonia inhalants in an attempt to revive him. However, the man refused further treatment and declined transport to hospital, leading responders to stand down.

According to Mr. Suriya Chamnan-yom, a volunteer with the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya unit, the call initially reported chest tightness at a cannabis shop on Pattaya Second Road. Upon arrival, responders found the patient in distress with convulsions and continuous vomiting.

Staff at the shop said the group had purchased cannabis and the man began experiencing symptoms shortly after taking a single inhalation. He was reported to have no known underlying medical conditions.

Health authorities note that while cannabis is widely used, first-time and inexperienced users may experience adverse effects, particularly with higher doses or potent strains. Experts generally advise first-time users to start with a very low dose, avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances, and use cannabis in a safe, supervised environment. Individuals with underlying health conditions or sensitivity to psychoactive substances may face higher risks.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Tourist attacks Thai man after beach cannabis warning

A fight broke out on Pattaya beach when a foreign tourist attacked a Thai man named Kittipong Sa-ardchandee, 29, after being asked to stop smoking cannabis in public. The tourist allegedly became aggressive and assaulted the visitor from behind, and had apparently attacked other Thai diners earlier with similar complaints. Municipal officers intervened and ordered the tourist back to his accommodation to prevent further escalation.

5 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — May 4, 2026. A fight erupted on Pattaya beach after a foreign tourist allegedly assaulted a Thai man who had asked him to stop smoking cannabis in a public area, according to police reports.

Kittipong Sa-ardchandee, 29, the victim, said he had been relaxing and eating with relatives by the beachfront when a group of foreign tourists at a nearby table began smoking cannabis, with the smell drifting to other visitors.

He said he approached them politely to ask that they not smoke in a public space. Despite the tourist's Thai girlfriend attempting to intervene, the man reportedly became angered.

Kittipong said that as he turned to walk back to his table, the foreign tourist adopted a fighting stance and attacked him from behind, triggering a scuffle. The assailant allegedly claimed to be a boxer.

The victim added that earlier, another group of Thai diners had also warned the same tourist and were similarly assaulted.

Municipal officers quickly intervened to stop the incident, but the foreign tourist continued to provoke the group, pacing near the scene and making obscene gestures. Authorities eventually ordered him to return to his accommodation and instructed both parties to disperse to prevent further escalation.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Palang Pracharath Party Disciplines Committee Eyes Punishment for Pandith Over Blanket Drug Allegations Against Village Headmen

Thailand's Palang Pracharath party has launched disciplinary proceedings against Bangkok MP Pandith Nuamchaim over his remarks about drug issues that broadly implicated village headmen and community leaders. Party spokesman Prirsth Wachrsindu stated that while Pandith has apologized publicly, the party will impose disciplinary measures proportionate to his inappropriate blanket accusations, with a final decision expected on May 6. The incident highlights growing scrutiny of the party's messaging as it seeks to differentiate itself from other political parties.

5 May Khaosod

At 9:45 AM on May 5, 2025, at Parliament, Prirsth Wachrsindu, a Palang Pracharath party-list MP, spoke about the party's apology statement regarding MP Pandith Nuamchaim's controversial remarks on drug issues and his implicit references to village headmen and community leaders. Wachrsindu stated that the party's primary concern was Pandith's blanket accusations, which the party views as inappropriate despite understanding the speaker's intent to highlight the drug problem. Pandith has been summoned into the party's disciplinary process, with a meeting scheduled for May 6 to consider proportionate sanctions. The party will clarify any further measures.

When asked about some village headmen saying an apology alone was insufficient and demanding Pandith reconsider his actions, Wachrsindu said that Pandith now acknowledges his inappropriate use of accusatory language and has publicly apologized. However, he emphasized that the party's disciplinary measures must be proportionate to the offense.

Regarding Deputy Progressive Movement Secretary Piyabutr Sangkanokkul's Facebook posts about Palang Pracharath's work, Wachrsindu explained that the party's credibility stems from clearly showing the public how Palang Pracharath differs from other political parties and how its agenda benefits the nation's future. Therefore, the party will continue presenting distinctive policy positions.

When asked if Palang Pracharath's new direction follows the correct strategy, Wachrsindu said the party held sufficient discussion at its general meeting. The party must provide clarity on personnel, present a vision for how it would govern differently if given the opportunity, and demonstrate benefits to the public. Moving forward, the party will focus on actions and proof through its opposition role in oversight, its recommendations to the government, work through shadow cabinet committees, and parliamentary committee contributions.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Senator Norrasetr Postpones Land Bridge Bill to Next Week, Expresses Concerns Over Government's Rush to Close Deal, Suggests Public Referendum

Senator Norrasetr postponed a Senate debate on the Land Bridge project to next week, citing concerns that the government is rushing to close the deal without proper scrutiny and suggesting a public referendum may be needed.

5 May Khaosod

At 9:30 a.m. on May 5, 2025, at Government House, Senator Norrasetr Prajyakorn, chairman of the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Liberties and Consumer Protection, announced the postponement of a bill requesting the government to reconsider the Land Bridge project. Although the bill had been added to the Senate agenda, numerous senators expressed strong interest in debating it and requested time to study the details. At least two Senate committees, including his own and the Transport Committee, have been studying the issue and calling relevant agencies to clarify the facts. Senators requested moving the bill to next week to allow adequate time for preparation. "After careful consideration, I believe we need sufficient time to thoroughly study the information without rushing and without debate lacking a proper factual basis. Therefore, I've decided to postpone this bill to next week so that senators can properly prepare for the discussion," Norrasetr stated. He also mentioned submitting an interpellation to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, already on the agenda, requesting him to present clarifications and answer questions confidently about how this project will drive the nation's economic development. When asked whether appointing Deputy PM and Finance Minister Ek Niti Nitithaprasop as chairman of the Land Bridge project study committee and confirming no conflicts of interest could ease concerns, Norrasetr said the concerns remain unresolved. He noted the project is extraordinarily large with significant impacts, yet was not part of the ruling party's campaign platform nor the government's policy statement—making it suspicious that such a major initiative wasn't in the government's declaration but became the first priority it pushed aggressively. "This raises a question: why the rush? Is it to solve economic problems or to rush closing a deal?" Norrasetr asked. He warned that the government's introduction of the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) law covering Chumphon, Ranong, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces should be closely monitored, as there are lessons from the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The SEC law reportedly mirrors the EEC entirely, and the EEC experience—with its powerful committee expediting environmental laws—has essentially turned the eastern region into a "zero-margin capital" zone.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

ASEAN and China Join Forces to Combat Cryptocurrency-Based Online Gambling with Digital Money Trail Tracking

ASEAN and China held a workshop in Ho Chi Minh City to train law enforcement officials on tracking cryptocurrency transactions used in online gambling operations. The May 5-6 event focused on strengthening cross-border cooperation to disman

5 May Khaosod

ASEAN and China Join Forces to Combat Cryptocurrency-Based Online Gambling with Digital Money Trail Tracking Strategy

On May 5, 2025, Deputy National Police Commissioner Trairongpipattanayon, Region 4 Police Commander Kritachaya Bamrungratanyos, and their delegations participated in an ASEAN-China workshop to exchange knowledge and expertise in combating technology-enabled crime on an international stage.

The workshop took place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from May 5-6, 2025, with the objective of enhancing law enforcement officials' capacity to address online gambling operations utilizing digital currencies as primary instruments.

The workshop curriculum emphasized knowledge transfer on cryptocurrency transaction tracing and analysis techniques, which represent the core of investigating modern online gambling networks characterized by complexity and cross-border connections.

Additionally, the forum served as a critical platform for strengthening international cooperation through information, best practice, and technology sharing to improve effectiveness in "following the money" strategies and ultimately achieve systematic arrests of criminals at the organizational level.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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