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National

Central Northville Opens To Crowds In Bangkok-Nonthaburi

Central Pattana opened Central Northville, a 4.5 billion baht mixed-use development spanning 210,000 square meters in northern Bangkok-Nonthaburi, featuring biophilic design with an indoor forest, pet zones, and outdoor recreation areas aim

14h ago Khaosod

Central Pattana launched Central Northville on July 3, 2026, one of the largest mixed-use developments in northern Bangkok and Nonthaburi, valued at 4.5 billion baht. The shopping center covers 210,000 square meters across 59 acres, designed with biophilic principles to promote well-being and longevity through sustainable quality of life. A condominium project planned for 2027 will complete the mixed-use development.

Chonwat Euowattanasukul, CEO of Central Pattana, highlighted Nonthaburi's strong economic growth and urban expansion, noting the company operates four shopping centers in the province. He emphasized that the most livable cities are those where people enjoy the highest quality of life, positioning Central Northville as Thailand's first longevity destination that integrates nature, lifestyle, health, and human experience for all age groups.

The mall features a Tropical Contemporary design with an Urban Oasis façade incorporating vertical fins, natural greenery, and water features to reduce heat and create a microclimate. Six signature zones include The Clouds, an indoor forest over 500 square meters; The Hill, a community and co-working space; Tree Grove, a relaxation area; Stone Atrium for events; Playville, an outdoor active lifestyle area with a 550-square-meter playground; and Petville, a 235-square-meter pet-friendly zone with grooming services. Additional amenities include a 450-meter jogging track and event lawn.

Nattakitti Tangpoolsindhana, Head of Marketing, stated the 4.5 billion baht investment reflects Central Pattana's commitment to developing Thailand's first longevity destination through biophilic design. The company aims to create a shopping experience that enhances quality of life, brings daily happiness, and grows sustainably alongside residents, communities, and the city.

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National

Mahachulalongkornraj University Reappoints Rector For Second Term

Mahachulalongkornraj University's rector was unanimously reappointed for a second four-year term on Wednesday, continuing his leadership of the Buddhist institution in Ayutthaya Province.

14h ago Khaosod

On Wednesday, June 24, 2026, Mahachulalongkornraj University in Wang Noi District, Ayutthaya Province, held its sixth university council meeting for 2026 to consider the succession of its rector. Phraprombat Wachiratheeracharya (Somjin Sammapanyo), the current rector whose four-year term concludes this year, was unanimously reappointed for another term. He has dedicated himself to Buddhist religious work, particularly in academic affairs, education, and monastic university development.

Now 65 years old with 44 Buddhist years of ordination, he serves as assistant abbot of Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen, deputy head of the Bali Sangha, deputy head of the 5th Buddhist region, and rector of Mahachulalongkornraj University. Originally named Somjin Vanjanthorn, he was born on September 28, 1960, in Ban Guangngoi, Lam Plai Mat District, Buriram Province. He completed primary school at age 12, then ordained at Wat Ban Kaert in 1974, later transferring to Wat Sao Hai in Saraburi Province where he studied Pali Buddhist texts and earned the titles of second and first class Tham scholar.

In 1976, he moved to Wat Chai Chumpol Chana Songkhram in Kanchanaburi to study Pali, achieving the rank of seven-verse Pali scholar. In 1978, he transferred to Wat Paknam Phasi Charoen. In 1982, after earning his nine-verse Pali scholar rank, he was ordained as a fully-fledged monk, receiving the ecclesiastical name Sammapanyo.

He later earned a Bachelor of Arts from Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University in 1989, a Master's degree in Buddhist Studies from Mahachulalongkornraj University in 1991, and a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Banaras Hindu University, India, in 1994. Upon completing his doctorate, he joined Mahachulalongkornraj University's academic affairs office. His career progressed steadily: in 1997 he became director of academic affairs, in 1998 dean of the Graduate College, and in 2006 vice rector for academic affairs.

In 2013, he was appointed professor of Buddhist Studies in the Faculty of Buddhist Studies. In 2016, he became secretary of the Bali Sangha. He has devoted himself fully to religious work, particularly academic and educational endeavors. He has authored numerous academic works and books, including "The Development of Buddhist Ethics," "The Development of Ancient Indian Thought," and "Mahayana Buddhism." He has written extensive scholarly articles on topics such as Vajrayana analysis, metaphysical problems, Monastic Discipline, Madhyamaka philosophy, and Buddhist logic. His research includes studies on Buddhist ethics, Thai Tripitaka dictionary, and Buddhist principles integration for administrative development. In 2003, he received the royal award for contributions to Buddhism.

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National

Muay Thai Community Mourns Death Of Dr. Tinakorn

Dr. Tinakorn Nambunjit, a prominent Thai Boxing Committee member who championed muay thai development, has died at 76. The committee mourned his significant contributions to the sport and Thai society.

14h ago Khaosod

The Thai Boxing Committee office has issued a statement expressing profound grief over the loss of Dr. Tinakorn Nambunjit, a distinguished committee member who devoted himself to advancing muay thai. He died peacefully at age 76.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Tinakorn played a vital role in promoting and developing the muay thai sport, while making substantial contributions to society and the nation. The committee extends heartfelt condolences to his family and close ones, celebrating his virtues and praying that his spirit finds eternal peace.

The management, staff, and employees of the Thai Boxing Committee office express their deepest sympathy.

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Police

Police Seize 6,700 Bottles In Counterfeit Liquor Crackdown

Police arrested three suspects and seized over 6,700 bottles of counterfeit foreign liquor during a coordinated operation in Chachoengsao, Bangkok, and Samut Prakan provinces that uncovered a sophisticated manufacturing and distribution rin

14h ago Khaosod

On July 3, 2569, the Criminal Investigation Bureau and Revenue Department coordinated a major operation against a counterfeit liquor network. Led by senior officials including Pol. Lt. Gen. Natthsakdi Chaovenasai and coordinated with revenue authorities, the operation announced results of investigating an illegal liquor manufacturing and distribution ring.

The investigation began when officers discovered a retail outlet in Chachoengsao province engaged in illicit counterfeit liquor sales. Deeper investigation revealed a sophisticated criminal organization with specialized divisions handling procurement, manufacturing, packaging, warehousing, and distribution to evade police detection. The counterfeit spirits were distributed to retailers across the region at suspiciously low prices.

Officers conducted searches at eight locations: five liquor retailers in Chachoengsao Province, two residential buildings in Bangkok's Bang Khun Thian and Bang Bon districts used as production facilities and money collection points, and one warehouse in Samut Prakan Province.

The operation seized over 6,700 completed bottles of counterfeit foreign brand spirits and approximately 478,054 pieces of related equipment including bottle capping machines, packaging boxes, stickers, and bottle seals.

Three suspects were arrested: Abhiwat (surname withheld), age 37; Yupha (surname withheld), age 50; and Wuthichai (surname withheld), age 54. They face charges under the Trademark Act B.E. 2534 for possessing counterfeit trademarked goods for sale. All three initially denied knowledge that the goods were counterfeit, claiming ownership of legitimate products. Investigators remain unconvinced and continue expanding the investigation to pursue other network members, including financial backers, raw material suppliers, and distributors.

Rev. Lt. Yongyut Phoompredesha noted that this successful operation resulted from close coordination between the two agencies, preventing distribution of over 6,700 bottles of illegal imported spirits. Preliminary assessment indicates the government lost approximately 2.2 million baht in tax revenue, with distribution networks identified across eastern Thailand tourist areas.

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Community

Rising Star Nooknik Marks Career Peak With First Fansign

After two decades in acting, Nooknik Pimpassorn marks her breakthrough year with award recognition for traditional drama and will host her first-ever fansign event in September following the success of her sapphic drama pairing.

14h ago Khaosod

Actress Nooknik Pimpassorn Aphilooppuhlap is experiencing what she calls a breakthrough period in her career. The close friend of celebrity Aum Patchrapa recently achieved success with the drama "Dechosurkhun Kaengaewanpkao" and was paired on-screen with actress Cat Athitya in what fans celebrated as the drama circle's first sapphic couple.

Nooknik has now received the TSM Crown Excellent Awards 2026 in the category of outstanding actress preserving and promoting Thai traditional drama. This marks her second major award of the year, following a previous honor for her contributions to traditional drama. She describes it as the most successful year of her acting career.

Following the drama's success and the fan following it generated, Nooknik will hold her first-ever fansign event, "1st Fansign Love At First Sight With Nooknik," on September 12, 2026. Speaking about the milestone, she shared: "Having fans and hosting a fansign event feels like a dream come true. After 20 years as an actress, I've mainly focused on performing. But when a group of people suddenly appreciates your work and shows this much love, it fills my journey as an actress completely. I hope everyone will continue to support us and look forward to the event."

There are also reports that the fansign may feature a surprise appearance by Aum Patchrapa, Nooknik's longtime friend. Fans noticed Aum joking with friends about attending to cheer on Nooknik, and if she appears, it would be considered a major celebrity appearance at the event.

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National

Cabinet To Split Sports Ministry From Tourism Next Week

Thailand's Cabinet is set to approve the split of the Sports Ministry from Tourism next week, creating an independent sports authority while merging tourism with the Culture Ministry.

14h ago Khaosod

The government is proceeding with structural reform of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports under Prime Minister Anupthane Chanweerakul's directive to create an independent Sports Ministry while integrating tourism operations with the Ministry of Culture.

On July 2, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phanthajareonwongkul disclosed to sports media that the establishment of a separate Sports Ministry has progressed clearly and concretely since he took office. The process has moved rapidly, and barring any setbacks, the Cabinet is expected to approve the operational framework at its Tuesday, July 7, 2026 meeting via the Office of the Civil Service Commission (OCSC). The Sports Ministry will definitely become an independent entity, though tourism's planned merger with Culture initially raised questions about the combined ministry's name—whether it would be called the "Ministry of Culture and Tourism" or "Ministry of Tourism and Culture." After careful consultation among all stakeholders and comparison with ministry structures in other countries, the decision was made to call it the "Ministry of Culture and Tourism."

Surasak further noted that while the original three-year implementation roadmap could be significantly accelerated, potentially creating an independent Sports Ministry by end of 2025, he personally believes this timeline is too ambitious. The new Sports Ministry will more likely emerge in 2026. If the sports policy reform succeeds, sports will become an exceptionally important national priority for Thailand going forward. He expressed confidence that this restructured framework represents the correct direction.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Thailand Launches SHIELD Platform to Combat Scams and Trafficking

Thailand launched SHIELD, a new intelligence-sharing platform designed to combat transnational call centre scams and human trafficking networks across Southeast Asia in real-time coordination with law enforcement from 11 countries.

14h ago Khaosod

BANGKOK — 3 July 2026, Thai police have unveiled a new technology platform dubbed SHIELD, describing it as the world's first system developed specifically to combat transnational call centre scam syndicates and human trafficking networks through real-time international intelligence sharing.

The platform was launched on Friday at the Vithes Samosorn Hall inside the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during the closing ceremony of the second consultation meeting on preventing and suppressing human trafficking linked to cybercrime. The event was jointly organised by the Royal Thai Police and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, bringing together frontline law enforcement officers and representatives from international organisations.

The ceremony was chaired by Social Development and Human Security Minister Nikorn Soemklang and attended by Pinsuda Jayanama, Director-General of the Department of International Organizations, Pol. Lt. Gen. Surapong Thanomchit, Commissioner of Provincial Police Region 8, Pol. Lt. Gen. Kritsada Kanjanalongkorn, Assistant Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police, representatives from law enforcement agencies in 11 countries and officials from several international organisations.

According to the Royal Thai Police, SHIELD is the first platform designed specifically to integrate intelligence against transnational call centre scams and human trafficking. The system enables participating agencies to exchange real-time information on scam compound locations, criminal financial networks, suspected offenders and trafficking victims, helping authorities coordinate investigations, rescue operations and cross-border enforcement more efficiently.

The launch comes as authorities continue to confront large-scale cyber scam operations linked to human trafficking networks operating across parts of Southeast Asia, particularly in border areas of Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos. Thai authorities say these criminal groups have exploited victims from numerous countries, generating billions of dollars in illicit proceeds while using neighbouring countries as operational bases and regional transit routes.

In response, the Thai government has designated the suppression of call centre scams and human trafficking as a national agenda, directing relevant agencies to strengthen prevention, law enforcement and international cooperation.

The launch also builds on discussions held during the International Conference on Global Partnerships Against Cyber-Scamming, hosted by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Bangkok in December 2025, which brought together representatives from 67 countries, international organisations, the private sector and civil society to strengthen global cooperation against cyber-enabled crime.

To date, Thai police said SHIELD has already been adopted by partners in 10 countries: Australia, China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, South Korea, the United States and Vietnam.

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Breaking

Security Guard Rescued After 8 Days Under Rubble

Venezuelan security guard Hernán Gil was rescued alive after eight days trapped under 140 tonnes of rubble from a collapsed shopping centre following devastating earthquakes on June 24. An international rescue team spent over 100 hours extr

14h ago Khaosod

CATIA LA MAR, Venezuela — A Venezuelan security guard has been rescued alive after spending eight days trapped beneath the rubble of a collapsed building following last week's devastating twin earthquakes.

The survivor, identified as Hernán Gil, was pulled from the ruins of the Galerías Playa Grande shopping centre in Catia La Mar after a rescue operation lasting more than 100 hours from the moment rescuers detected signs of life.

Gil had been trapped beneath an estimated 140 tonnes of rubble after the building collapsed during earthquakes on 24 June. Despite his ordeal, officials said he was in remarkably good condition. A Costa Rican Red Cross medic explained that Gil survived because he was inside a small concrete security booth in the basement car park when the building came down, which formed a protective pocket around him.

One rescuer reported that Gil had not even suffered a broken or torn fingernail. Another described the operation as one of the most technically complex rescue missions ever faced.

Rescue teams from Venezuela, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Mexico, Portugal and the United States participated in the effort. During the operation, crews supplied Gil with water, an IV drip, a face mask and protective goggles through a narrow opening. The rescue tunnel collapsed several times during the work, highlighting the danger faced by both Gil and the rescue workers.

A small camera eventually captured Gil looking toward rescuers, one eye reddened and his face covered by a protective mask. Despite his ordeal, Gil remained alert and even requested his preferred flavour of electrolyte drink. A Mexican Red Cross worker noted that Gil helped encourage the rescue team, telling them he was glad they had returned to stay with him.

The rescue came as Venezuela continued searching for survivors following the 24 June earthquakes, which have killed more than 2,000 people, injured thousands more and left many others missing.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Love Series 'Dawn of Horizon' Exceeds Expectations

The Thai BL series "Arun Rung: The Edge of Horizon" has exceeded expectations with stellar on-screen chemistry between leads In Chakrasindhu and Ongsa Theerachat, who credit trust and careful character preparation for their authentic portra

14h ago Khaosod

The on-screen chemistry between In Chakrasindhu and Ongsa Theerachat from "Arun Rung: The Edge of Horizon" has generated overwhelming fan excitement across social media platforms, with the series currently two episodes in. During an exclusive interview, both actors expressed their relief and happiness at the response, which exceeded all expectations. They revealed their behind-the-scenes approach, emphasizing the importance of trust and consent-based principles when filming intimate scenes, while also diving deep into period-appropriate character work set in 1932. The actors teased that upcoming episodes will be far more intense than what viewers have seen so far, guaranteeing that the relationship between their characters will keep audiences smiling, crying, and surprised throughout.

When asked about the feedback, In described it simply as "very good," while Ongsa noted being overwhelmed by the positive reception and pleased to see audiences connecting with the story from day one. In mentioned enjoying TikTok clips where fans have edited scenes, with particular praise for Kattleya's portrayal of Nuan, the mother character. Both actors confirmed they felt relieved rather than anxious after the positive response, viewing it as a reward for their dedicated effort.

Regarding character preparation, In explained that his role as Phobteer has two distinct parts—as a servant and later as a lieutenant colonel—requiring different physicality, speech patterns, and military etiquette to reflect the period and rank. He consulted with the director using a numbered scale technique and received advice from senior military contacts on proper manners and posture. Ongsa similarly divided his preparation into two aspects: understanding Thinkhon's internal emotional world and external expression. He researched the character's responsibilities and deep love for Phobteer, then adjusted his performance style—slowing his naturally quick speech and adopting the refined tone befitting the character's social class.

When asked about their chemistry and how they managed intimate scenes as first-time scene partners, Ongsa noted he didn't feel pressured to "melt" emotionally, relying instead on In's naturally warm and encouraging demeanor. In emphasized his efforts to create a comfortable, low-pressure environment during their early interactions and workshop sessions, ensuring any "magic moments" would happen naturally rather than forced.

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National

SCB Wealth Expands Global Investment Options

Siam Commercial Bank's SCB Wealth is expanding offshore investment options for wealthy clients with new US dollar-denominated foreign mutual funds and structured notes, available through its InnovestX platform to support global portfolio di

14h ago Khaosod

SCB WEALTH is advancing its "Go Global" strategy to expand world-class investment opportunities for wealthy clients. The bank is launching two new offshore investment product categories: foreign mutual funds and structured notes with embedded derivatives, denominated in US dollars. According to Sorchai Sunetta, CFA and Deputy Head of High Net Worth and Affluent Banking at Siam Commercial Bank, the initiative aims to provide WEALTH clients with convenient access to offshore assets through dedicated financial advisors trained to international standards, with comprehensive product offerings available through the InnovestX platform.

This approach reflects SCB WEALTH's commitment to elevating the international investment experience, enabling clients to manage portfolios that better mirror global asset structures across geographic diversification, currency risk management, and exposure to long-term global economic growth themes. Against a backdrop of global economic uncertainty—from Middle Eastern conflicts affecting energy-dependent economies to volatile interest rates driven by central bank policy challenges and competing pressures of inflation and economic growth—portfolios have become increasingly complex. Many countries also face elevated sovereign debt burdens, making comprehensive portfolio strategy essential.

Despite these challenges, compelling investment opportunities exist in foreign markets, particularly in sectors and countries benefiting from technology and AI advancement, most of which are located overseas. WEALTH investors can leverage offshore investment strategies to diversify currency risk through foreign-currency-denominated assets while efficiently accessing growth-oriented opportunities.

SCB WEALTH currently offers two main categories of offshore foreign asset investment products: (1) Foreign mutual funds established by global asset management companies (Offshore Funds) offering WEALTH clients access to premier global funds covering diverse assets and investment strategies in US dollars; and (2) Offshore Structured Notes—investment instruments with embedded derivatives designed to align payoff structures with market outlook and client risk tolerance, issued by foreign financial institutions and distributed through the bank's platform and InnovestX.

Example products include Callable Inverse Floaters that provide interest rate-inverse returns, Fixed Coupon Notes (FCN) paying fixed returns tied to various securities, Knock-in Knock-Out (KIKO) notes with principal and returns tied to underlying assets like stock prices, and Shark Fin Notes (SFN) offering principal protection.

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National

Bank Athit Takes On First BL Series Without Pressure

Young actor Bank Athit makes his BL series debut in "Fool in Love," losing 8kg to commit to the role, emphasizing that good acting transcends genre and the script's quality matters more than the project type.

14h ago Khaosod

Young actor Bank Athit Tung Vibulyapanich is stepping into his first BL series without hesitation, taking on the role of Ing in the romantic-drama "Fool in Love," adapted from a hugely popular novel. To fully commit to the character, Bank lost 8 kilograms in a single month. The series is produced by iQIYI Original and premieres July 3, 2025.

At a blessing ceremony held at Union Mall on July 3, 2025, Bank explained his decision to take on the role. "Acting is acting, whether it's a drama, film, or BL series," he said. "The decision wasn't difficult at all."

When asked if being a BL series gave him pause initially, Bank admitted, "At first, maybe I was a bit shy. But not anymore, especially after we did workshops together. When you actually play the role, it's no different from anything I've done before. It's just a character with scenes and emotions."

Bank revealed that he had received other offers to act in BL productions before, but this script felt different. "I've had people approach me about casting in other projects, but after reading the scripts, I didn't feel they were right for me. But with this story, the character Ing just resonated with me. I felt like I could really bring something meaningful to it, so I wanted to take this role."

He emphasized that all actors receive such offers: "Every actor gets contacted for BL, GL, and other projects. It's not about that—it's about whether the script is right. All actors can play anything. Acting doesn't differentiate between genres anymore."

When asked what he liked about Ing, Bank said, "I understand why fans of the novel love this character so much. The character has a lot of charm. Does he feel pressured? Everyone feels pressure, but I try to help the other actors relax as much as possible. I want them to let go of that stress, because if we can't relax, our performance suffers. I keep telling them, 'Don't stress too much, just relax.'"

Bank works closely with his co-stars, offering guidance without imposing his own acting style. "I want them to grow as actors in their own way, not become copies of me. I guide them but don't direct them too heavily," he explained.

He has developed a close bond with the cast through their constant work together on set and in activities. Bank has also done his homework, reading the source novel twice to understand the character and respect the expectations of fans. "Fans already have their vision of who Ing is, so I read the novel twice and gave it my all in the adaptation. At first, the other actors were nervous, but I told them not to worry. Remember how everyone had expectations for the new Harry Potter films? We made sure to do it justice, and we'll do the same here. We're committed, and we won't betray the characters."

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