National

Chulabhorn Royal Academy Showcases Excellence in Health Science Education

Chulabhorn Royal Academy showcased six health science and medical programs at Bangkok's TCAS Fair 2026, including new offerings in health data science, biomedical engineering, and medical food technology designed to address Thailand's healt

29 Apr Khaosod

Chulabhorn Royal Academy, a leading institution in health science education and medical technology, participated in the Dek-D's TCAS Fair 2026 held at Bangkok Convention and Exhibition Center (BITEC), Bangna on April 25-26. The event attracted significant interest from high school students and parents, reflecting the institution's vital role in producing medical and health science professionals to meet Thailand's public health needs in the digital era.

This marks the academy's third consecutive year of participation, with six faculties providing educational guidance and presenting cutting-edge curricula tailored to address workforce shortages in critical health professions. Expert faculty and senior students shared preparation techniques to help students prepare confidently for university.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Peerud Chearawich, instructor at the Faculty of Medicine Srisavarangchai, highlighted the faculty's two programs: a seven-year Doctor of Medicine curriculum leading to two degrees (M.D. and a specialized master's degree), and a four-year Health Data Science curriculum developed jointly with King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi's Faculty of Engineering.

Asst. Prof. Chattraporn Ruengtong from the Faculty of Health Science Technology described three programs: Health and Movement Science (the first and only undergraduate degree in this field), Emergency Medicine, and Radiologic Technology, emphasizing practical skills to produce qualified professionals capable of mentoring others.

Dr. Charu Techalertsaipal from the Faculty of Science highlighted the Medical Science Innovation curriculum, integrating medical science knowledge with innovation to develop solutions improving Thais' quality of life.

Asst. Prof. Atth Khemthong from the Faculty of Food Innovation and Nutrition presented the Medical and Health Food Technology curriculum, which integrates food technology, nutrition, and health science with innovation and AI applications.

Asst. Prof. Trisak Yaemsoad from the Faculty of Engineering described the Biomedical Engineering program as an interdisciplinary curriculum integrating engineering and health science, developed in collaboration with medical and engineering networks including Chulabhorn Hospital, Oncology Center, government agencies, and private organizations.

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Regional

Laundry Shops and Cafes in Buriram Scramble to Survive New Tiered Electricity Rates, Say Profits Insufficient to Cover Rising Bills

Small business owners in Buriram's laundry and cafe sector fear the government's new tiered electricity rates will force them to close, as their high energy consumption already costs thousands monthly with insufficient profits to absorb fur

29 Apr Khaosod

Small business owners operating laundry services and cafes in Chalermphra Kiart District, Buriram Province are scrambling to find ways to survive the government's new tiered electricity rate system, which charges progressively higher rates for increased consumption. With monthly usage exceeding 500 kilowatt-hours—the threshold established by the Energy Ministry—these businesses worry they won't be able to continue operating once the policy takes effect.

Siripon, 39, owner of a laundry pressing shop, explains that she operates five washing machines and six dryers, paying approximately 3,000-4,000 baht monthly in electricity costs—already well above the 500-unit threshold. She fears her bills will rise substantially under the new system. Installing solar panels, she notes, would cost over 150,000 baht, an expense far too high for her limited-profit business. She appeals to the government to consider small operators like herself who necessarily consume high amounts of electricity.

Similarly, Jirawat, 32, who owns a cafe, says the energy ministry's policy initially seemed promising but his business doesn't generate enough profit to absorb higher electricity bills. Despite already removing all non-essential electrical appliances, his monthly bill still exceeds 10,000 baht. He urges the government to recognize the struggles of small business operators in this situation.

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National

Thai Men's 3×3 Basketball Team Falls Short Against Qatar, Claims Silver Medal at Asian Beach Games

Thailand's men's 3×3 basketball team won silver at the Asian Beach Games in China after losing to Qatar in the final, while the women's team claimed bronze with a victory over Singapore.

29 Apr Khaosod

In the 6th Asian Beach Games 3×3 basketball competition held in China on April 29, 2025, Thailand's men's team advanced to the championship final after defeating the Philippines in the semifinals. However, the Thai men's basketball team came up short against Qatar, fighting valiantly but ultimately succumbing to their opponents' superior strength with a final score of 10-21, earning the silver medal. In the women's division, Thailand's female 3×3 basketball team competed for the bronze medal against Singapore and emerged victorious with a convincing 17-8 victory, successfully claiming the bronze medal.

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National

Army Tracks Progress of Royal Charitable Fund Project in Kantharalak District

The Thai Army is overseeing the construction of civilian shelters and military fortifications under the Royal Charitable Fund project in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province, currently 90 percent complete. Phase One has been finished with 50 fighting positions and 10 public shelters across multiple provinces, while Phase Two is underway to construct an additional 278 positions, expected to finish by mid-2025. The project aims to enhance security and surveillance capabilities along Thailand's border regions while providing protection for civilians and military personnel.

29 Apr Khaosod

April 28, 2025 – Army Spokesperson Colonel Windthai Suwanee announced that the Thai Army is implementing and supporting the 'Royal Charitable Fund' project initiated by Her Royal Highness Princess Chulabhorn Walailak in constructing civilian shelters with a capacity of 40 people and individual fighting positions for military forces to enhance security. Today, Army Commander General Pana Khlaew Plod Tuk has assigned General Anupap Sirimondul, Chief of the Commander's Staff, to lead a team to Kantharalak District in Sisaket Province to monitor project progress, review work results, and inspect shelter and fortification construction along the border.

The team received a briefing from the Second Army Region (engineering units from the Second Army Development Division and Suranari Force) on the project's advancement covering Ubon Ratchathani, Sisaket, Surin, and Buriram provinces. Phase One included constructing 40 individual fighting positions and 7 civilian shelters—all completed and already utilized by local residents and village security volunteers during recent incidents. Phase Two is currently underway to construct an additional 216 individual fighting positions, with 104 completed and 112 in progress, showing 87.90 percent advancement.

The Second Army Region also presented plans to strengthen Thailand-Cambodia border security, covering transportation, water resources, electricity, communications, personnel and civilian safety, food security, and area management. The team then visited Ban Sok Kham Pom in Phu Pha Mok Sub-district to inspect a civilian shelter, followed by Sao Thang Chai Sub-district to monitor fortified position construction in the Phu Ma Khiao area for troop safety and border surveillance.

Overall, the Royal Charitable Fund project by the Thai Army is divided into two phases, with plans to construct 328 individual fighting positions and 10 civilian shelters. Phase One has been completed with 50 individual fighting positions (10 in the First Army Region and 40 in the Second Army Region) and 10 civilian shelters (3 in the First Army Region and 7 in the Second Army Region). Phase Two is currently constructing an additional 278 individual fighting positions (62 in the First Army Region and 216 in the Second Army Region) to enhance security and border surveillance, expected to be completed by mid-year. Army Commander emphasizes the importance of civilian and military personnel safety along the border and has directed all units to accelerate implementation to achieve concrete results meeting public needs and strengthening national security.

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National

Private Sector Donates 2 Million Baht to Veterans Hospital, Visits Injured Soldiers

Private sector company Sino-Pacific Trading donated 2 million baht to Veterans Hospital on April 28, supporting operations and patient care while executives visited wounded soldiers to offer encouragement and gifts.

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 28, 2025, at the Veterans Hospital, Lt. Gen. Saree Sukunthamalai, Deputy Director of the Veterans Organization, received a donation of 2 million baht from Ekchai Setwetsombat, Managing Director of Sino-Pacific Trading (Thailand) Co., Ltd., and his delegation. The funds will support hospital operations and employee welfare. Following the donation ceremony, hospital officials toured the rehabilitation and vocational training center for veterans, which provides care and recovery services for patients. Ekchai and his team then visited 73 wounded veterans recovering on the fourth floor of Building 2, offering words of encouragement and support. The visitors provided lunch and distributed monetary gifts to boost morale among those who sacrificed for the nation. This corporate support plays an important role in improving the quality of care and enhancing the quality of life for disabled veterans.

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National

Physical Education Department Launches Kickoff Campaign, Inviting Thais to Compete in Line Dancing for Royal Trophy

The Thai Physical Education Department launched a nationwide 'KICK OFF MOVE TOGETHER' campaign promoting line dancing as a fun, accessible form of exercise for all ages. The campaign, held on April 29, 2026, featured participation from over 1,000 people at the National Stadium and simultaneous participants from all 76 provinces. A line dancing competition is being organized for 2026 with registration open until May 20, offering royal trophies and prize money for winning teams.

29 Apr Khaosod

The Physical Education Department under the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, in collaboration with network partner agencies, organized the 'KICK OFF MOVE TOGETHER Strong Together, Healthy Thailand' campaign to promote exercise as a lifestyle in response to royal policies on sports promotion for national development. The campaign was held at Phra Phon Badi Field, National Stadium, and online across the country, launching a line dancing initiative that is accessible and fun, combining music with low-impact rhythmic movements suitable for the general public. This physical activity promotes body and mental development across all systems.

The campaign chose line dancing because it is easy for the public to follow, reduces injury risk, improves balance, builds muscle strength, supports cardiovascular health, reduces stress, and strengthens community bonds. Over 1,000 people participated at the national stadium, with participants from all 76 provinces dancing simultaneously.

The Physical Education Department is also organizing a 2026 line dancing competition for general public teams aged 25 and above. The grand prize winner receives a royal trophy with certificate and 25,000 baht. First runner-up receives a trophy with certificate and 15,000 baht; second runner-up receives a trophy with certificate and 10,000 baht; and consolation prizes of 5,000 baht each (two awards). Registration closes May 20, 2026, with regional representatives announced by June 26, 2026. The final competition will be held July 23-24, 2026, at Nimit Buthorn Sports Building, Physical Education Department.

Natthareeya Theeviwong stated that this campaign aims to implement the policy promoting exercise and sports among people of all ages in communities, following the sports promotion project for national development. The goal is to instill a love of exercise and sports in youth and people of all genders and ages, creating a strong society with good health, free from drug abuse and social ills. The campaign is expected to transform from a promotional activity into a community participation system that builds nationwide strength and health, prevents chronic diseases, and reduces national healthcare costs.

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Breaking

Thermal Insulation Factory Destroyed by Fire on Suksa Waset 51 Road; 20 Fire Trucks Mobilized; Damage Estimated at 10 Million Baht

A thermal insulation factory in Samut Prakan was destroyed by fire on April 29, with 20 fire trucks responding to contain the blaze in a warehouse containing flammable materials like foam and chemicals; damage reached 10 million baht.

29 Apr Khaosod

At 3:40 p.m. on April 29, 2025, Sergeant Theerasak Chaimanee from Phra Pradaeng Police Station received notification of a fire at a thermal insulation factory located on Suksa Waset 51 Road in Bang Jak Subdistrict, Phra Pradaeng District, Samut Prakan Province. He immediately proceeded to the scene with Anon Buranapackdi, the Phra Pradaeng District Chief, and Sophea Meesamrit, Mayor of Lad Luang Municipality.

Firefighting equipment and foam tanker trucks were coordinated from multiple municipalities including Lad Luang, Phra Pradaeng, Pu Chao Saeng Prai, Laem Fa Pha Subdistrict, and Phra Samut Chedi Subdistrict, along with over 20 volunteer emergency relief personnel. The facility, spanning nearly 5 rai, manufactures thermal insulation materials. The fire originated in a storage warehouse containing flammable materials such as plastic foam, turpentine, cooking gas cylinders, fiberglass, paint drums, plywood, and plastic sheets. Thick black smoke billowed into the sky as the fire raged.

Firefighters urgently deployed water hoses to prevent the flames from spreading to adjacent buildings and a Thai-style wooden structure under construction. The site was further complicated by the presence of over 10 large chemical tanks nearby, requiring the use of chemical foam rather than water for firefighting. The fire was accompanied by periodic explosions and took over 2 hours to extinguish. Initial assessment revealed the warehouse was completely destroyed with the roof collapsed.

Upon questioning the factory manager, approximately 10 workers were employed, but none were present at the time of the incident. The manager and remaining workers detected a burning smell and entered to investigate, discovering heavy smoke and rapidly spreading flames. Fortunately, no workers were inside the warehouse when the fire ignited. Police have secured the area and restricted access pending detailed forensic examination. One minor injury was reported, and preliminary damage estimates total 10 million baht.

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National

BCPG Clarifies Transparent Investment in Petroleum Storage and Port Terminal in Phetchaburi Province

BCPG clarified its petroleum storage and port terminal investment in Phetchaburi as a standard business transaction structured to isolate acquired assets from past liabilities while generating approximately 900 million baht in annual revenu

29 Apr Khaosod

BCPG has clarified its investment in petroleum storage facilities and port terminal in Phetchaburi province as a standard business transaction, with buyers and sellers operating independently with no direct or indirect connections.

In response to media reports regarding BCPG Public Company Limited's investment in the petroleum storage and port terminal project in Phetchaburi province, the company provides the following clarification:

The company invested in the project through a business acquisition structure, requiring the seller to establish a new company called Asia Link Terminal Limited (ALT) and transfer only the assets, rights, and contracts related to the petroleum storage and port terminal business to ALT. This transaction structure aims to isolate the acquired business from only those assets and rights directly related to the operation, while separating any liabilities or risks from the seller's past operations. This ensures that post-investment valuation and business performance reflect the true potential of the business without being mixed with historical burdens.

Following the transfer, BCPG Energy Logistics Limited, a subsidiary company, acquired all shares of ALT, which contains only the assets, rights, and contracts related to the business.

The investment valuation follows standard business investment principles, based on the company's ability to generate cash flows from serviceable assets and long-term warehouse lease contracts that provide future revenue. The investment is therefore evaluated based on cash flows and revenue the business can generate, not the physical value of assets. Currently, ALT generates approximately 900 million baht annually, demonstrating its capability to operate continuously and generate cash flows.

Under accounting principles, the company completed a fair value assessment according to accounting standards in the second quarter of 2567, within the required 12-month period from transaction completion. This fair value assessment is separate from determining the investment valuation.

This investment is part of a strategy to develop energy infrastructure business to generate long-term revenue. The petroleum storage and port terminal business generates cash flows and serves as revenue support during the period when Thailand's solar energy project concessions expire.

This transaction is a standard business transaction with both buyer and seller operating independently with no direct or indirect relationships. The company remains committed to conducting business under good corporate governance principles, emphasizing transparency, auditability, and strict compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Digital Economy Ministry and Transport Department Set to Take Action Against Major Ride-Sharing App Following Driver Deception of Female Student; Threaten Legal Action and App Shutdown

Thai authorities are escalating enforcement against ride-sharing apps following a driver's assault on a female passenger, threatening legal action and platform shutdowns for companies failing to comply with registration and safety standards

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2025, Pachon Anantsila, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy for Society (DE), chaired a press conference announcing control measures for ride-sharing platform providers following an incident involving malicious conduct toward a service user. He was joined by Dr. Chaichana Mitpan, Director of the Electronic Transactions Development Office (ETDA), Sarapong Paituryapong, Director-General of the Department of Land Transport (DLT), Major General Chanannut Saratwalpaichaya, Commander of the Technology Crime Suppression Division (TCSD), Police Colonel Kongsak Pannoi from Nong Khaem Police Station, and Nattadanai Suksitanan, General Manager of Bolt Thailand.

Permanent Secretary Pachon stated that following Digital Economy Minister Chaiyachok Chidchob's directive to expedite control measures for public transport platform providers, the incident represents conduct that should never occur had the platform complied with standards set by the DE Ministry, ETDA, and the DLT. All ride-sharing service providers must register vehicles under the public transport vehicle system (Form 17/Form 18) and drivers must hold public transport driving licenses. The previous registration deadline of March 31, 2025 has now passed, and full legal enforcement will begin moving forward.

The DE Permanent Secretary stated that the ministry regrets the incident and will take full enforcement action against platforms that fail to comply with regulations and negligently allow misconduct to occur. Enhanced legal enforcement mechanisms may be implemented, particularly for platforms lacking proper risk management and user safety systems as defined by the DE and Transport ministries.

Enforcement may include both civil and criminal proceedings to suspend or revoke platform operations, and may invoke the Computer Crime Act Section 20 to block non-compliant platforms. Chaichana Mitpan, ETDA Director, stated that the ride-sharing incident highlights the necessity to "elevate the intensity of supervision and legal enforcement" to build user confidence. ETDA has been conducting parallel operations with serious legal enforcement and continuous consultations with the DLT and related agencies.

Platform providers have been instructed to ensure operations comply with the "Electronic Transactions Commission Announcement Concerning Other Operations for Public Transport Ride-Sharing Platform Business" effective March 31, 2025. Chaichana noted that monitoring revealed some platforms have "insufficiently rigorous" verification procedures, particularly regarding driver identity verification. ETDA has therefore issued orders for stricter compliance.

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Police

Deputy Minister Nikorn Assigns Chanin to Monitor Case of 14-Year-Old Boy Accused of Sexual Assault on 8-Year-Old Girl, Orders Protection for Both Parties

A 14-year-old boy in Pathum Thani has been accused of sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl, prompting the Deputy Minister to assign officials to monitor the case and ensure psychological support for both the victim and the accused minor f

29 Apr Khaosod

Deputy Minister Nikorn Somklang of the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security has assigned ministerial advisor Chanin Rungthanakiart to closely monitor the case of a 14-year-old boy accused of sexually assaulting an 8-year-old girl in Pathum Thani province. The boy had recently completed his detention at a juvenile facility when he allegedly lured the victim into a wooded area behind a residential community.

Channin reported that the Pathum Thani Office of Social Development and Human Security has safely placed the victim girl under care at a child welfare facility for psychological rehabilitation. Police have scheduled an interview with the victim, to be conducted jointly with a multidisciplinary team in accordance with criminal procedure law, on April 30, 2025, to ensure the legal process is thorough while minimizing psychological trauma to the child.

Regarding the victim's family situation, the Pathum Thani Emergency Welfare Center found that the girl's mother is a drug user and unable to provide adequate care. The girl has been placed under temporary welfare protection at the Pathum Thani Child and Family Care Center, while her mother has been referred to drug treatment programs.

Chanin stated that the 14-year-old perpetrator exhibits aggressive behavior, recently completed his juvenile detention, and comes from a family with a history of drug use. Officials have ordered his swift removal from society through proper procedures. A multidisciplinary team will assess his family situation, and he will be temporarily placed under the care of institutions under the Ministry of Social Development while police investigations and court proceedings continue.

"The ministry is deeply concerned about this incident," Chanin said. "We recognize that both the perpetrator and victim are youth from vulnerable families, so we must proceed appropriately. We have instructed all relevant agencies to provide close psychological care and rehabilitation support for the victim."

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National

Thailand Discusses Agricultural Cooperation with ASEAN Ministers to Address Middle East Crisis

Thailand led a special ASEAN agriculture ministers' meeting to discuss coordinated responses to the Middle East crisis's impact on regional food security and agricultural supply chains. The Thai delegation outlined proactive measures including improved fertilizer management, promotion of sustainable farming practices, and soil quality research. Thailand emphasized the importance of maintaining smooth trade flows and avoiding protectionist measures to safeguard ASEAN's role in global food security.

29 Apr Khaosod

Thailand joined a special ASEAN agriculture and forestry ministers' meeting to discuss cooperation in reinforcing agricultural security in response to the Middle East situation. Winayadej Thrupsuksok, permanent secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives, headed the Thai delegation in the online Special ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) Meeting on The Latest Situation in The Middle East. The delegation included Deputy Permanent Secretary Narumol Songwanwong, ministry officials, and relevant staff participating from the Agriculture and Cooperatives ministry conference room.

The permanent secretary addressed the meeting to exchange Thailand's perspectives and adaptation strategies, noting that the Middle East crisis has impacted global food security, agricultural production, and the stability of input supply chains, particularly fertilizers. These disruptions have negatively affected vulnerable groups in the ASEAN region, increasing production costs and food prices for member states.

The ministry has implemented proactive measures to ensure adequate fertilizer supplies domestically while promoting the combined use of chemical, organic, and biological fertilizers to reduce production costs and maintain efficiency. Thailand is also promoting knowledge transfer suited to different crop types and soil conditions, supporting research and development in soil quality improvement, and developing sustainable agricultural systems.

Thailand emphasized support for agricultural market stability and developing resilient and sustainable agriculture aligned with the ASEAN Vision 2045 and relevant cooperation frameworks. The meeting included discussions on current situations, preparedness measures, and emergency response plans, with agreement to strengthen regional coordination and joint actions supporting ASEAN food security.

The meeting stressed the importance of maintaining smooth circulation of food, fertilizers, and agricultural inputs, while agreeing to avoid unnecessary trade restrictions that could worsen food insecurity and increase market volatility. Enhanced regional cooperation was emphasized to strengthen capacity in addressing external crises.

The meeting reflected Thailand's commitment to upgrading agriculture through ecosystem-conscious approaches that enhance flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability while supporting global food security. Thailand emphasized the necessity of concrete cooperation among ASEAN members to enable the region to maintain its leadership role and remain a trusted partner in global food security forums.

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