National

Deputy Education Minister Backs National Cybersecurity Committee to Build Digital Defenses and Strengthen AI Security for 2026

Thailand's Deputy Education Minister and the National Cybersecurity Committee launched a nationwide training program on April 28, 2026, aimed at building cybersecurity expertise among over 16,000 education personnel. The initiative focuses on digital defense building and AI security, covering topics from cyber threat prevention to safe artificial intelligence usage. The collaboration represents a significant national effort to transform educators into knowledge advocates who can foster cybersecurity awareness across Thai communities.

28 Apr Khaosod

On April 28, 2026, Deputy Education Minister Akkhranon Kanngittinun joined an online opening ceremony to encourage participants in the training program "Enhancing Knowledge and Understanding of Cybersecurity Learning Activity Curriculum." He emphasized the critical importance of developing cybersecurity skills and expressed confidence that participants would apply their knowledge practically, while indicating plans for future in-person regional visits.

The Department of Learning Promotion (DLP) Director Dr. Kestitip Supbwanit presided over the training in collaboration with the National Cybersecurity Committee (NCC). The event included NCC Secretary-General Gen. Omorn Chomchoy and attracted over 16,000 educators and administrators nationwide.

Operating under the 2023 Learning Promotion Act, the DLP aims to provide citizens with "access to accurate knowledge" anytime and anywhere. As the digital world becomes integral to daily life, cybersecurity awareness has become a national priority. The collaboration between DLP and NCC represents a unified effort to build "digital immunity" among education personnel, who will serve as key disseminators of knowledge throughout communities.

The training curriculum covers both theory and practical applications, including digital technology fundamentals and cybersecurity, daily cyber threat prevention, safe AI usage, and digital fraud awareness. The Deputy Education Minister emphasized that DLP personnel must evolve from "technology users" to "knowledge practitioners" and "cybersecurity community builders" through enhanced digital skills and lifelong learning. This collaborative initiative with the NCC's experts marks an important foundation for creating a Thai society that is "digitally aware, secure, and uses technology creatively" while adapting sustainably to the digital era.

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Police

Singapore Means Business! French Teen Charged Over Licking Vending Machine Straw Stunt, Faces Up to 2 Years in Prison

An 18-year-old French student in Singapore faces up to two years in prison after posting a video of himself contaminating a vending machine's straws, forcing the operator to replace 500 units.

28 Apr Khaosod

Singapore authorities have charged 18-year-old French national Didier Gaspard Owen Maximilien with property damage and causing public nuisance after he posted a video of himself licking a straw from an automatic orange juice vending machine and placing it back in the dispenser on March 12 at a shopping mall. Local media reports that Maximilien, a student at ESSEC Business School's Singapore campus, posted the video on Instagram with a caption reading "city is not safe," which sparked widespread criticism on social media. The vending machine operator iJooz revealed it had to replace all 500 straws in the dispenser following the incident. If found guilty on both counts, Maximilien faces over two years imprisonment and fines amounting to several thousand dollars. ESSEC Business School confirmed it is conducting an internal investigation into the matter. Maximilien's attorney stated that his parents have arrived in Singapore and that a representative from ESSEC has provided bail during court proceedings, with the next hearing scheduled for May 22.

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National

Supachai Puts Brakes on 1,000 Baht Fee for Thai Travelers Abroad, Awaits Tourism Minister Discussion

Deputy PM Supachai halted a proposed 1,000 baht fee on Thai travelers abroad, saying the Tourism Minister must first discuss details with her before cabinet consideration.

28 Apr Khaosod

Deputy PM Supachai Puts Brakes on 1,000 Baht International Travel Fee Proposal, Emphasizes Careful Review

At 1:00 PM on April 28, 2025 at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthammaphand, overseeing the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, commented after a cabinet meeting on Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Pantcharoenworrakul's proposal to collect a 1,000 baht fee from Thai citizens traveling abroad. Surasak must first present the proposal to her before it can be brought to cabinet discussion.

When asked whether she found the proposal appropriate, Supachai said she has not yet reviewed the details and needs to first discuss the specifics with Surasak, emphasizing the need for thorough and careful consideration.

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National

Snooker Legend Calls for Ban on Ronnie O'Sullivan's Old Cue Chalk, Citing Outdated and Dirty Equipment

Former world snooker champion Neil Robertson has called for a ban on the old Triangle brand cue chalk used by Ronnie O'Sullivan, arguing that it leaves marks on the table and causes gameplay problems that modern Taom chalk does not. The controversy emerged during a recent World Snooker Championship match where O'Sullivan's chalk allegedly affected his opponent's ability to control the cue ball, though no rule currently prohibits its use. Multiple professional players and even some snooker clubs support banning the outdated chalk, with Robertson comparing the situation to creating artwork on the felt rather than playing fair sport.

28 Apr Khaosod

Former world snooker champion Neil Robertson has called for a ban on the cue chalk used by legendary snooker player Ronnie O'Sullivan, stating that most players "hate it" and it "makes the table dirty and messy."

The chalk issue arose during a match where John Higgins defeated Ronnie O'Sullivan 13-12 in the World Snooker Championship Round of 16. During the match, Higgins encountered problems while shooting, with the cue ball not traveling in the intended direction. Despite pocketing the red ball successfully, the white ball positioning was unfavorable. This occurred because O'Sullivan continues to use the old Triangle brand chalk, which leaves marks on the felt, while most snooker players use the modern Taom brand chalk, which reduces "miscues" (unintended contact) and leaves no residue on the table. However, there is currently no rule against this chalk in professional snooker, meaning O'Sullivan has not violated any regulations.

Robertson, who faces Higgins in the quarterfinals, expressed relief at not facing O'Sullivan due to the chalk issue. "I'd rather play John because I won't have to deal with the chalk Ronnie uses, which should be banned from the sport entirely. I don't understand how they allow it. No professional would ever allow anyone to use Triangle chalk on their own table," Robertson stated.

The 2010 world champion elaborated: "Every player hates it. It ruins the game. It causes miscues, makes balls jump, and dirties the table considerably. I know Ronnie is friends with artist Damien Hirst, but it's like he's creating artwork with chalk on the felt. I don't think he's trying to upset anyone—he's not that type of person—but he's almost the last person on the tour still using this chalk. I hope they announce a ban eventually."

Robertson also noted that he doesn't even allow practice partners to use this type of chalk. "This is something that should be discussed because it ruins the game and is unfair to other players. Shaun Murphy and I would like to see it disappear altogether," he said, jokingly referring to the incident as "Chalkgate." He noted that several snooker clubs have already banned it because it damages the felt.

Seven-time world champion Stephen Hendry weighed in on the issue, saying: "Ronnie uses very old chalk that leaves heavy marks on the table, both on the cloth and along the rails. When the ball hits these marks, it can cause unpredictable bounces. The table feels heavier than normal, which other players aren't accustomed to because everyone uses modern chalk that doesn't leave marks and doesn't cause miscues. Recently, new chalk technology has come out that significantly reduces contact errors. Almost everyone has switched to it because it's superior. You don't have to wipe the cue ball as often, it leaves no residue, but Ronnie chooses to use the old chalk he's familiar with."

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National

What a Great Older Brother! Fort Nuttawut Treats His Sister's Birthday and Supports Her Every Step of the Way

Actor and singer Fort Nuttawut is having a busy year with the release of his new single "Stay With Me," his first-ever solo concert, and multiple television and theater projects. The hardworking entertainer also showed his caring side by treating his younger sister to a gold birthday gift, demonstrating his supportive nature both professionally and personally.

28 Apr Khaosod

What a great older brother! Fort Nuttawut treated his younger sister to a birthday gift and showed unwavering support. He revealed his packed schedule this year and expressed excitement about his upcoming first solo concert.

Fort recently released a new single called "Stay With Me," and his first-ever solo concert is coming this year. Fans can look forward to seeing Fort in various capacities—through his acting performances, music, solo concerts, and theater productions. On April 27th, Fort appeared at an Oxe'Cure event as the new brand representative for acne care, updating fans on his busy year ahead.

Fort shared that his 2024 schedule is packed with music releases, series, a solo concert, and theater work. The newly released "Stay With Me" is a sweet, easy-to-listen-to track, and for his first solo concert, he admitted feeling quite nervous since it's a new challenge for him. He's committed to delivering his best performance and giving fans a complete show experience.

He also revealed a touching moment about his relationship with his younger sister—he gave her gold as a birthday present. He described himself as both protective and caring, but doesn't pressure or restrict her choices. Whatever she needs, her older brother is ready to support her.

Regarding the new song release, Fort shared that he hadn't memorized the lyrics yet since he'd been focused on filming series. The music video features actress Prim, and he was delighted she participated. The song has a sweet, affectionate vibe with lyrics like "stay with me, can you stay with me until morning?" He joked that the song captures his true personality as someone who's a bit clingy, especially with his mother.

On his first solo concert, Fort expressed nervousness mixed with excitement. This is his first time headlining alone, which he sees as stepping out of his comfort zone. He's uncertain how fans will respond to seeing him as a solo artist rather than in group performances. He wants fans to enjoy a fulfilling show experience.

He acknowledged that his year is demanding with theater, series, and concerts, but he's determined to do his best and show fans different sides of himself. His packed schedule includes a romance series called "Scarlet Heart" and theater productions later in the year, so fans won't have time to miss him. Though he does grab rest when filming breaks allow, like the two-day break he recently had.

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Police

Man with Mental Illness Stabs Police Officer While Being Taken to Hospital

A 37-year-old man with mental illness stabbed a police officer in the abdomen during a welfare check in Phatthalung Province on April 28, as officers attempted to take him to the hospital at his mother's request.

28 Apr Khaosod

On April 28, 2025, police officers from Muang Phatthalung Police Station responded to a report of a man with mental illness acting erratically inside a home in Chai Buri Subdistrict, Muang District, Phatthalung Province. The man's mother requested assistance in transporting her 37-year-old son to Phatthalung Hospital for treatment.

When officers arrived, they found the patient barricaded in his bedroom refusing to open the door. At the mother's request, officers attempted to break down the door. As they entered, the patient suddenly burst out and lunged at Police Officer Somphorn Ketdaeng, the substation chief, stabbing him once in the left abdomen beneath his protective vest. Officers immediately transported Somphorn to Phatthalung Hospital, where his condition was initially reported as stable. Other police units successfully restrained the suspect without further incident.

The man's mother tearfully explained that her son has suffered from mental illness for years with frequent episodes requiring police intervention. Although the family has continuously sought treatment, the high costs of psychiatric care have made it impossible to afford proper care due to their financial hardship. She stated that the previous night, her son isolated himself in his room, speaking to himself and showing unusual behavior, prompting her to call for help. She had hoped to have him admitted to the hospital, but when officers entered, he apparently panicked as his condition worsened, leading him to attack the officer.

Major Sompracha Kankanant, superintendent of Muang Phatthalung Police Station, confirmed that the suspect is a psychiatric patient currently undergoing legal proceedings. Authorities are coordinating with relevant agencies for his continued care and treatment.

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National

Workers Tighten Their Belts: Labor Day Spending Hits First Decline in 5 Years

Thailand's Labor Day spending fell 3% to 2.1 billion baht, marking the first decline in five years as consumers grow cautious about economic conditions and rising costs. Worker incomes remain stagnant while overtime is shrinking and household debt climbs to nearly 500,000 baht per household, reflecting broader economic slowdown. The government is being urged to implement grassroots stimulus measures as the economy faces growth forecasts of just 1.1-1.5% for the year.

28 Apr Khaosod

The Thai Chamber of Commerce's forecasting center points to weakening purchasing power following Songkran, with overall Labor Day spending this year reaching approximately 2.1 billion baht—a 3% decrease marking the first decline in five years. Worker incomes remain flat, overtime is shrinking, and household debt has surged to nearly 500,000 baht per household, leading authorities to urge accelerated grassroots economic stimulus measures.

Thanaworth Polvichaya, rector of the Thai Chamber of Commerce University and chair of the university's economic and business forecasting center, revealed that this year's Labor Day spending patterns clearly reflect a slowing Thai economy, particularly in consumer spending that has continued declining since Songkran. When counting only Labor Day period spending and excluding the extended holiday period, the sample group showed a clear trend toward less travel, resulting in total spending of approximately 2.1 billion baht—down 3%, representing the first negative growth in five years and the lowest expansion rate in five years.

However, the spending decline isn't dramatic, but rather signals that people are becoming more cautious with money due to concerns about economic conditions, energy prices, and international developments. A key positive factor preventing economic collapse is that the conflict situation hasn't intensified beyond forecasted parameters. If oil prices don't exceed $100-110 per barrel and conflicts resolve within three months, Thailand's economy still has room to move within projected frameworks.

Regarding U.S.-Iran tensions, despite failed negotiations in Pakistan's second round, there are no signs of escalation and diplomatic channels remain open, keeping oil price and global economic risks within original estimates. The forecast for Thailand's 2024 economic growth remains at 1.1-1.5%, down from the previously projected 2%, aligning with the government's estimate of 1.4% growth.

Currently, no signs of severe business liquidity crises, widespread closures, or mass layoffs are visible. However, the labor sector is beginning to feel impacts through stagnant wages, reduced overtime opportunities, and potentially shortened working hours to align with slowing business sales.

"We haven't seen signals of mass layoffs or widespread salary cuts, but what's beginning to emerge is reduced opportunities for overtime work, with potentially fewer working hours and overtime—reflecting economic slowdown but not yet severe crisis," the center stated.

Surveys also reveal worker anxiety about future income, particularly the possibility of earnings declining and employment concerns. While no clear signs of unemployment or layoffs are evident yet, a key survey finding is the changing spending behavior of workers. Most respondents reported spending equal to or less than their earned income, reflecting increased caution with expenditures.

High oil prices and war uncertainty carry dual implications: first, people's new income isn't increasing because business sales are down, reducing overtime and supplementary work opportunities; second, some entrepreneurs are adjusting operational costs for utilities, transportation, and certain goods, which dampens consumer confidence. However, surveys don't yet show living costs dramatically exceeding income, but rather indicate people and workers are choosing to save more.

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Police

Cambodian police raid scammer centre in Poipet

Cambodian police raided an online scam operation in the border city of Poipet on Sunday, detaining multiple suspects including foreign nationals amid international pressure to combat cybercrime networks.

28 Apr Khaosod

Cambodian police raided a suspected online scam operation in the border city of Poipet on Sunday, detaining multiple individuals as authorities face mounting international pressure to crack down on cybercrime networks. The Cambodian National Police said the operation took place at 17:00 in Balelay 2 village, Poipet commune, in cooperation with Banteay Meanchey provincial police and the Poipet City Administration. Officers searched the premises and arrested several suspects, including foreign nationals, while seizing evidence. Authorities said those detained remain under investigation, with legal proceedings pending. The crackdown comes as Cambodia faces heightened scrutiny from the international community over its efforts to dismantle scam compounds operating within its borders. During a recent visit, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised concerns over online scam networks in talks with Cambodian leaders, urging stronger enforcement. Meanwhile, the United States has imposed sanctions on a Cambodian senator accused of links to scam operations, adding further pressure on Phnom Penh to act.

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Tourism

Outrage as tourists expose themselves on Phuket tuk-tuk

Foreign tourists faced backlash after being photographed exposing themselves aboard a moving tuk-tuk in Phuket's Karon area, prompting calls for authorities to investigate and consider deportation.

28 Apr Khaosod

PHUKET — April 28, 2026. A group of foreign tourists has sparked widespread online criticism after images showed them engaging in inappropriate behavior aboard a moving tuk-tuk in Phuket, according to authorities. Photos shared by a local Facebook page depict several women on the vehicle traveling along Patak Road in Karon subdistrict, Muang district, heading toward Karon Circle. The images appear to show the tourists taking turns removing their underwear and exposing themselves toward vehicles behind them, in full view of other road users and pedestrians. The post quickly generated a wave of social media reactions, with many users condemning the behavior and calling on authorities to take action, including imposing fines or issuing deportation orders. Dashcam footage from a vehicle traveling behind the tuk-tuk reportedly captured the incident clearly. As of April 28, there were no confirmed reports that officials had launched an investigation or identified those involved. The incident has renewed calls for stricter enforcement measures to prevent inappropriate conduct in key tourist areas.

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National

Beyond Rhetoric: What Russia Really Brings to ASEAN

Russia and Vietnam signed an agreement to build Southeast Asia's first nuclear power plant in Ninh Thuan, with Russia offering advanced technology and expertise in small modular reactors to address the region's growing energy demands.

28 Apr Khaosod

This article was written by H.E. Mr. Evgeny Tomikhin, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom of Thailand.

On April 20–21, 2026, the Russian city of Kazan hosted the 22nd Russia-ASEAN Senior Officials' Meeting, a regular event in the evolving dialogue between Russia and the Association. This meeting took place in a symbolic year: 2026 marks the 35th Anniversary of Russia-ASEAN relations – a partnership that had matured alongside profound transformations in the global order.

Anniversaries often invited reflection. Yet beyond ceremonial language, a more important question arose: what is the real substance of Russia-ASEAN cooperation today? And, more pointedly, does Russia indeed "have little to offer" Southeast Asia, as some commentators suggested?

Such claims tend to overlook a fundamental shift in how international partnerships are evaluated. ASEAN countries consistently emphasized pragmatism, strategic autonomy, and diversification. In this context, Russia's role should not be measured by comparison with any single external actor, but by the concrete value it brought across multiple domains.

Energy cooperation provides perhaps the clearest answer. On March 23, 2026, Russia and Vietnam signed an intergovernmental agreement to construct the Ninh Thuan 1 nuclear power plant – the first such facility in Southeast Asia. This is not a symbolic project. It involves advanced technology, long-term investment, workforce training, and the development of an entire ecosystem around peaceful nuclear energy. For a region facing rising energy demand, climate challenges, and the need for reliable baseload power, such cooperation speaks directly to ASEAN's priorities.

Russia possesses advanced and practical expertise in the field of small modular reactors (SMRs). Unlike many other countries where such technologies remain at the design stage, Russia already operates real, functioning solutions – including the world's first floating nuclear power plant, Akademik Lomonosov. These developments offer flexible, safe and cost-effective energy solutions, particularly relevant for archipelagic and remote areas. There is genuine interest in SMRs across ASEAN, and Russia stands ready to share its technologies and experience on a mutually beneficial basis.

Importantly, this project also illustrates a broader point: Russia's comparative advantage lies in sectors that require long-term commitment, technological depth, and respect for national development strategies. Nuclear energy, hydrocarbons, transport infrastructure, and food security are not areas of short-term engagement. They are foundational elements of economic sovereignty – something ASEAN states value highly.

Since 2024, Russia is also an ASEAN Digital Partner. Russian expertise in e-governance, digital public services, fintech solutions, and IT infrastructure development provides additional avenues for cooperation.

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Tourism

Head to Bangkok's CentralWorld to Scan and Claim Your Boyfriend (Just Kidding)! PunPun Put 100 Roses to the Test for a Line Confession—I'm Going All In on This Mystical Method!

Thai celebrity PunPun's viral matchmaking ritual at Bangkok's CentralWorld—praying with 100 roses at the Trimurti statue—claimed to attract a Line message from her soulmate within moments, sparking a social media trend among single visitors

28 Apr Khaosod

Looking for love in Bangkok? Thai celebrity PunPun is sharing her unconventional matchmaking method that's taking social media by storm. According to PunPun, a fortune teller once told her she had everything in life except a husband, so she was directed to pray at the Trimurti statue outside CentralWorld with 100 red roses in hand. She stood before the statue and earnestly prayed: "Please let my soulmate find me quickly, and keep the wrong people away." To her amazement, her Line app buzzed with a message almost immediately after she finished praying—a response so quick that even professional matchmakers would be jealous. The story has inspired hordes of single Bangkok visitors to flock to CentralWorld's entrance with their own roses, hoping to replicate PunPun's success. Beyond shopping and dining, tourists are now adding a spiritual romantic quest to their Bangkok itinerary. PunPun invites her followers to share their own romantic aspirations and spread the word, wishing everyone to find their perfect match in 2026.

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