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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Charoensakdi Denies Taking Advance Payment From Muang Thong

Former Muang Thong United manager Charoensakdi Vongkran denied receiving advance payment from the club, clarifying his return was based on mutual agreement rather than financial incentives. He expressed support for players seeking unpaid wa

12h ago Khaosod

Charoensakdi Vongkran posted on his personal Facebook account to clarify the circumstances surrounding his return to Muang Thong United. "I need to address claims circulating on social media and elsewhere that I signed a contract and received advance payment," he wrote. "This is completely untrue. Such talk reflects badly on both me and the club. This contract signing was a mutual agreement, with discussions focused solely on building the team for the upcoming season."

Charoensakdi emphasized his genuine commitment to the club, stating he is not motivated by money alone. "I understand the current situation where some players are demanding unpaid wages, and I support their cause because they have the right to compensation for work performed," he said. He called on the club to resolve these wage disputes promptly, acknowledging that all players have financial responsibilities and families to support.

He concluded by reaffirming his full commitment to Muang Thong United, saying there was no reason to worry about his dedication despite the club's current financial issues. "I made this decision entirely of my own volition, and I'm ready to fight for the team," Charoensakdi stated.

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National

South Korea Coach Appointment Lacks Proper Selection Process

A South Korean committee member claims the appointment of Hong Myung-bo as 2026 World Cup coach bypassed proper selection procedures and favored him solely for being Korean over more qualified international candidates.

12h ago Khaosod

Park Chu-ho, a former South Korean national team player, has exposed the appointment of Hong Myung-bo as the 2026 World Cup coach, alleging the decision was predetermined and bypassed legitimate selection procedures. As a member of the committee tasked with evaluating, selecting, and recommending the national team manager, Park Chu-ho stated that Hong Myung-bo's appointment did not follow proper procedure. The committee thoroughly reviewed coaching candidates from both South Korea and abroad over five months, but the association ultimately selected Hong Myung-bo over Jürgen Klinsmann without any formal evaluation, choosing him solely because he is Korean, disregarding the fact that his tactical methods are outdated for contemporary football.

The Korean Football Association (KFA) insists that Hong's appointment followed correct procedures and has warned Park Chu-ho that it is considering legal action. However, Park Ji-sung, a former national team player and Manchester United legend, has supported Park Chu-ho's stance, stating: "I believe people have lost faith in the KFA, and it will take a very long time for the association to regain that trust. I don't expect things to change after this interview, but I felt I should at least voice my opinion."

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National

Thailand Reviews 693 Billion Baht Budget as Inflation Looms

Thailand's parliament is reviewing a 693.88 billion baht budget for fiscal 2570 amid inflation concerns exceeding 4%, with the Bank of Thailand projecting modest economic growth of 2.3% this year buoyed by AI investment and technology expor

12h ago Khaosod

On July 3, 2569, Natthadittha Thepsutin, a Pheu Thai party list MP and spokesperson for the special budget committee, announced the committee's review of the fiscal year 2570 spending budget bill. The meeting began examining the central budget under Section 6, totaling 693.88 billion baht.

The committee consulted four economic agencies to assess the country's overall economic situation: the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Thailand, and the Budget Bureau.

Thepsutin reported that the Bank of Thailand estimates Thailand's economy will expand in the short term despite negative pressures from Middle East conflicts, which have driven up commodity and oil prices. This has created inflationary pressure, with inflation potentially exceeding 4% in the fourth quarter before gradually declining next year.

Rising inflation may slow household consumption in the latter half of 2024, though government measures like the "Thailand Helps Thailand Plus" program are supporting the economy and private sector spending in the third quarter.

Thepsutin noted that artificial intelligence investment represents a significant positive factor, expanding globally and boosting demand for Thailand's technology exports. Technology product exports grew 34.2% in 2568 and are forecast to grow 43.8% this year and 17.2% next year, demonstrating AI's critical role in driving Thailand's economy.

"Despite inflation's impact on consumption, investment and AI industry momentum should help Thailand's economy grow 2.3% this year and 1.8% next year, though consumer spending and government measures require close monitoring," Thepsutin said.

The committee also questioned the National Development Council about economic impacts from Thailand-Cambodia tensions and contingency plans. The council clarified that while economic impact assessments have been conducted, cross-border trade volume is insufficient to significantly affect the nation's overall economy.

Thepsutin added that the committee will begin reviewing the Prime Minister's Office budget next on July 6.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

PTTEP Reuses Entire Oil Platform in Thailand First

PTTEP has become the first company in Thailand to fully reuse a decommissioned oil platform, reducing construction time by 70% and cutting costs by 35-50% while slashing emissions by 3,270 tons of CO2 equivalent.

12h ago Khaosod

Bangkok, July 3, 2026 – PTTEP has successfully reused an entire decommissioned petroleum wellhead platform structure for the first time in Thailand, maximizing resource management by reducing operational timelines, lowering costs, and cutting greenhouse gas emissions in line with circular economy principles and the company's sustainability practices.

CEO Montri Rawaloaichaikul of PTTEP Exploration and Production Public Company Limited explained that when petroleum reserves at a field deplete, wellhead platforms that remain structurally sound and safe can be repurposed for maximum benefit. PTTEP applied circular economy concepts combined with modern construction engineering and technology to fully reuse the petroleum wellhead platform structure.

The company executed this initiative first at the Jakrawalpak (JKWK) wellhead platform in the Funan field under Project G 1/61, relocating the topside, jacket structure, and selected pile sections for new installation at the same field. This approach reduced construction and installation time from approximately 20 months to just six months—a 70% reduction—and slashed construction costs by 35–50% compared to building a completely new platform.

The project also achieved significant environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 3,270 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent per platform through reduced steel and equipment production. PTTEP deployed modern construction engineering techniques, including wet towing of the jacket structure to the new location, which minimized energy consumption and reduced impacts on marine life inhabiting the jacket structure.

"This success demonstrates concrete application of circular economy principles in our petroleum exploration and production operations—a first for Thailand in fully reusing a wellhead platform structure," Rawaloaichaikul stated. "It reflects efficient resource management that reduces operational timelines, minimizes consumption of new materials, and cuts greenhouse gas emissions, creating value across economic, energy security, and environmental dimensions simultaneously."

PTTEP plans to continue and expand this initiative, with programs in 2027–2029 targeting the refurbishment and redeployment of approximately 10 additional structurally sound and safety-assessed wellhead platforms. The company aims to enhance resource efficiency, advance circular economy practices, and continue balancing business operations with environmental stewardship according to its sustainability commitments.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Multi-Vehicle Crash Injures Six on Petchkasem Highway

A Bangkok-bound passenger bus collided with a truck on Petchkasem Highway in Prachuap Khiri Khan on July 3, injuring six people including one seriously; heavy rain and road construction contributed to the multi-vehicle crash.

12h ago Khaosod

A chaotic multi-vehicle collision unfolded on July 3, 2026 at 1:10 PM on the Bangkok-bound lane of Petchkasem Highway in Bo Nok subdistrict, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Deputy Superintendent Rattanapon Thongjin of Prachuap Khiri Khan City Police Station received reports of a Bangkok-Ranong passenger bus swerving into a truck, followed by a pickup truck striking the rear of the truck. Multiple injuries were reported, prompting an immediate response from police led by Station Commander Phaithul Prom and rescue personnel.

At the scene, officers found a blue Bangkok-Ranong route bus with severe damage to the right rear section. A parked truck showed debris from the bus lodged on its left side, while a pickup truck registered in Nakhon Si Thammarat had damage to its front end. Six people were injured—five bus passengers and one pickup driver—with one sustaining serious injuries requiring hospitalization.

Initial investigation revealed that as the truck slowed due to road construction ahead, the bus driver attempted to swerve left but failed to avoid collision with the truck's side. The pickup truck behind couldn't brake in time and struck the truck again. Heavy rain at the time made the highway slippery, contributing to the accident. Police collected evidence from the scene, cleared vehicles from traffic, and proceeded with legal proceedings.

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Community

Ko Niyom Residents Block Road Over Garbage Truck Stench

Over 20 residents in Kamphaengphet Province blocked a road with tractors to protest garbage trucks leaking foul-smelling waste through their community. Authorities negotiated a deal requiring the recycling facility to change its route withi

12h ago Khaosod

Over 20 residents from Moo 6, Ban Khao Niyom, Pran Krat Subdistrict in Kamphaengphet Province blocked traffic on July 3, 2025, by positioning two tractors at a junction near Khao Niyom Police Station. The action was designed to pressure authorities to resolve serious issues caused by garbage trucks traveling through the community to a recycling plant. These trucks leak leachate onto roads and emit strong odors that significantly disrupt residents' lives, especially during afternoon peak traffic hours.

Ms. Somchai (surname withheld), a community representative, explained that the problem has persisted for a long time without concrete solutions. Residents have demanded the factory cease all operations through Ban Khao Niyom immediately, and called for authorities to shut down the facility if the factory violates this ban. They also want the facility to accelerate waste burial procedures to reduce odor impact on homes.

Factory representatives responded by explaining their improvement plans, including sealing all trucks with silicone to prevent leakage and covering waste with soil after daily operations. They acknowledged ongoing odor issues but attributed them to the natural characteristics of garbage, which they said smells stronger during the day and lighter at night. The facility operates five trucks daily, though eight other local government organizations also use the same route.

After negotiations, Chalermpon Chinara, Deputy District Officer of Pran Krat, mediated an agreement between both parties. Residents will file a complaint with Pran Krat Subdistrict Municipality to pursue legal action against the factory. Police officials confirmed they will impose ongoing fines according to law, and the factory promised to change its truck route within two days to minimize community impact.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Former Buddhist Affairs Chief Charged Over Temple Kickback Scheme

Former National Office of Buddhism director Panom Srasil was charged with embezzling 2.3 million baht in temple subsidy funds in Narathiwat, with the NACC finding he and associates created fake committee approvals to allocate money to templ

12h ago Khaosod

On July 3, 2025, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) found former National Office of Buddhism Director Panom Srasil and associates guilty of embezzling subsidy funds intended for Buddhist activities at Wat Sittisarn Prasit in Takling District, Narathiwat, during the 2015 fiscal year.

In 2015, Panom Srasil ordered the formation of a committee to allocate subsidy funds for Buddhism promotion projects, with himself as advisor and Deputy Director Pranomm Kongpikul as committee chair. The committee was tasked with reviewing criteria and disbursing funds to Buddhist institutions.

Provincial Buddhism Office Director Sathian Damrangkadirat coordinated with Narathiwat's chief monk to compile a list of temples interested in hosting Buddhist holiday events. However, there was a hidden condition: temples receiving funds would have to return a portion to the central office.

Wat Sittisarn Prasit, which had never applied for support, was allocated 3 million baht. The NACC discovered the committee never actually met. Instead, the allocation was processed through backdated meeting minutes prepared by Pattana Suammatmontri, with Pranomm's direction, and approved by Panom Srasil without proper authorization procedures.

After receiving 2,999,970 baht, the temple was pressured to withdraw 2.3 million baht, which was passed to Sathian and eventually to Pranomm. Following Sathian's arrest in a related case involving temple kickbacks across three southern border provinces, Pranomm returned cash to authorities for restitution.

The NACC charged Panom Srasil with both criminal and serious disciplinary violations. Pranomm Kongpikul, Prasang Chakkam, and Pattana Suammatmontri face criminal and serious disciplinary charges. Some charges against certain officials were dismissed due to statute of limitations. Sathian and Surachet Charoenmettatham were found guilty of supporting state officials in wrongdoing and serious disciplinary violations.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

26 Tons Of Illegal Meat Seized At Samut Sakhon Cold Storage

Authorities seized 26 tons of illegally imported beef, buffalo meat, and organ parts from a cold storage facility in Samut Sakhon province, with no valid import documentation found on the premises.

12h ago Khaosod

On July 3, 2569, Agriculture and Cooperatives Minister Suriya Chungrungruekjit and Secretary Sarawut Neuangcamnong, acting as commander of the Phra Phirun Center, ordered Deputy Commander Sranyasand Veerapakulsunthon to lead a task force raid on a cold storage facility in Mueang district, Samut Sakhon province. The operation involved the Department of Livestock, provincial authorities, police, and customs officials.

Authorities discovered intelligence indicating that the facility housed illegally imported frozen beef, buffalo meat, and organ parts from Argentina, India, and China without proper authorization. During the raid, officers found two pickup trucks parked outside the cold storage, each loaded with approximately 3 tons of meat prepared for delivery to customers.

Inside the facility, inspectors discovered Argentine beef, Indian buffalo meat, and organ parts including beef tongue, intestines, and cheeks, totaling approximately 20 tons according to the facility operator's verbal account. However, no import documentation was found for any of the seized goods.

Deputy Commander Sranyasand stated that the operation resulted in the seizure of 26 tons of illegally imported meat and organ parts. The facility operator could not produce valid import permits, and therefore faces legal prosecution. The confiscated goods have been impounded for further investigation.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Understanding Autism: Children Are Not Bad

A pediatrician urges public understanding of autism, clarifying that autistic children are not inherently "bad" and emphasizing the condition is a neurodevelopmental difference, not a behavioral flaw. Dr. Mod stresses that autism varies wid

12h ago Khaosod

Dr. Mod calls for public understanding, emphasizing that "special needs children" does not equal "all autistic children," and "autistic children" does not equal "bad children." One incident alone should not define an entire group.

On July 3, 2026, Dr. Mod's Facebook page "The Storytelling Pediatrician" posted this message. Recent news coverage has prompted increased discussion about "special needs" and "autism," terms that are often conflated. While Dr. Mod believes most people don't intentionally misunderstand, these two terms are frequently used interchangeably. Today, he invites everyone to understand six important points:

1. "Special needs" does not always mean "autism." The term "special needs" refers to children who require specialized care, learning, or support beyond the norm. It is not a disease name and does not exclusively mean "autism." Special needs can refer to autistic children, children with ADHD, children with learning disabilities, children with intellectual disabilities, children with cerebral palsy, or various other conditions.

Early news reports used the term "special needs," which initially left the specific condition unclear. However, recent confirmation indicates the child in question is autistic. Therefore, Dr. Mod wants everyone to understand "autism" correctly.

2. What is autism? Autism is a neurodevelopmental difference, not a habit, parenting outcome, or insult. Key characteristics of autistic children include: - Difficulty communicating and socializing, such as reading facial expressions, tone, or social cues—harder than for typical people - Repetitive or specific behaviors and interests - Sensitivity to sound, light, smell, or touch - Preference for routines; sudden changes may cause more stress than in typical people

None of this results from poor parenting or the child being "bad."

3. Each autistic child is very different. Many assume all autistic children are alike, but the reality is far more diverse. In medicine, we call this diversity the Autism Spectrum: - Some cannot speak - Some speak excellently - Some have intellectual disabilities - Some complete university and work successfully - Some have families and children - Some have even completed medical school and practice as doctors

Therefore, two autistic individuals may differ greatly despite sharing the same diagnosis.

4. Autistic children have different support needs. In medicine, we categorize autism into Levels 1, 2, and 3. These levels don't indicate which child is smarter or less capable, but rather how much "support" each child needs. Some require guidance only in certain areas, some need assistance with learning or daily living, and some require close supervision.

5. Autism does not mean intellectual disability. Many mistakenly believe autistic children cannot excel academically or drive. This is incorrect. While some autistic individuals do have intellectual disabilities, many have normal IQ, excel academically, work successfully, and have exceptional abilities in mathematics, music, art, or detail retention. Many are highly intelligent, even surpassing typical peers.

Do not be surprised to meet autistic children who excel academically—it happens.

6. One incident cannot define an entire group. When negative events occur, we should analyze the facts of that specific incident without using one person's actions to judge hundreds of thousands of others. Medically, autism is not a label.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Launches Climate Adaptation Report Consultation Forum

Thailand held a public consultation on its draft climate report, with officials warning that the country's vulnerability to extreme weather has surged dramatically, ranking 17th globally in 2024 compared to 69th the previous year.

12h ago Khaosod

Thailand's climate change and environment department partnered with UNDP to hold a public hearing on the draft Fifth National Report and the second Biennial Transparency Report (NC5/BTR2), specifically focusing on Chapter 4 regarding climate change impacts and adaptation. Dr. Pirun Saiyasitpanich, Director-General of the Department of Climate Change and Environment, chaired the July 3 consultation meeting at Pullman King Power Bangkok, bringing together stakeholders from all sectors to gather expert feedback and sectoral data. The goal is to develop a comprehensive, accurate national report that fully reflects Thailand's climate vulnerabilities.

Dr. Pirun highlighted that current climate conditions are intensifying and fluctuating rapidly. The World Meteorological Organization has warned of a "super El Niño" phenomenon raising sea surface temperatures 2 degrees Celsius above normal with critical global impacts. According to the 2026 Climate Risk Index by Germanwatch, Thailand's vulnerability to extreme weather has dramatically increased, ranking 17th globally in 2024—a sharp rise from 69th in 2023. This poses direct threats to national security across food, water, health, tourism, investment sectors, and the nation's competitiveness, particularly for vulnerable populations with limited adaptive capacity.

"Developing the NC5/BTR2 report, especially Chapter 4 on impacts and adaptation, is a critical strategic priority for Thailand," Dr. Pirun stated. "It fulfills our international commitments under the Paris Agreement and UNFCCC framework while serving as an essential tool to assess progress on Thailand's National Adaptation Plan, strengthening our mechanisms to protect rights and build sustainable economic and social resilience."

Ms. Niamh Collier-Smith, UNDP Thailand representative, emphasized international cooperation, noting the project receives support from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) to advance the Enhanced Transparency Framework (ETF). The working team presented draft baseline framework documents and data reference sheets to standardize how partner agencies collect and report climate adaptation metrics.

The department invited government agencies, private sector organizations, educational institutions, and civil society to review the draft report and submit feedback, statistics, and case studies via Google Form or email (adapt.btr@gmail.com). The report aims to comprehensively address gender equality and social inclusion in Thailand's climate adaptation efforts.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Housing Authority Offers Up To 20% Discount And Zero Interest First Year

The Government Housing Bank launched a nationwide campaign offering discounts up to 20% on ready-to-move housing and zero interest in the first year, targeting low-income earners and vulnerable groups through September 2025.

12h ago Khaosod

The Government Housing Bank (GHB) has launched the "GHB Helps Thais: Easy Purchase, Easy Installment" campaign, offering ready-to-move-in residences across the country with discounts up to 20% and credit benefits to vulnerable groups.

Taveepong Wichaidit, GHB Governor, stated that the campaign brings the Social Development Ministry's policy into practical action. The initiative covers over 69 projects nationwide, including 37 affordable housing projects, providing maximum 20% discounts with special lending benefits. The campaign specifically targets low-income earners, elderly citizens, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups, enabling them to access quality housing at affordable prices.

The special tiered interest rate structure includes: 0% interest in the first year, 2.50% in years 2-3, 4.00% in years 4-5, 6.50% in years 6-10, and 6.75% in years 11-40. Those rejected by commercial banks can directly enter hire-purchase agreements with GHB. Renters seeking to reduce debt burden may increase monthly installments to settle accounts faster. Credit bureau checks are waived for affordable housing, community housing, social housing development, and Light Rail Transit Pedestrian Line 3 projects, with decisions based on Credit Score instead.

The campaign runs through September 30, 2025. GHB also allows existing tenants to convert to hire-purchase agreements (Walk-in), with minimum deposits of 1,000 baht for social projects, 5,000 baht for commercial projects, and 10,000 baht for Light Rail Transit Line 3 projects, plus special 2.50% interest rates in the first year.

All participating projects will be renovated and repaired to move-in condition before handover. Alternatively, buyers can choose to renovate themselves and receive a discount equivalent to repair costs. This campaign not only helps Thais own homes more easily but also advances social development policy while stimulating the real estate and national economy sustainably.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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