National

Deputy PM Ekniti Identifies Public Procurement as Economic Engine for Asia-Pacific Region

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas opened the International Public Procurement Conference 2026, emphasizing how public procurement can serve as a strategic tool for sustainable economic growth across Asia-Pacific. The conference, bringing together over 20 countries, highlighted Thailand's commitment to reforming its procurement system through digital transformation, green procurement practices, and innovation-focused initiatives. Thailand is also prioritizing support for small and medium enterprises and promoting domestic industries through its "Made in Thailand" policy to maximize economic, social, and environmental benefits.

27 Apr Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas opened the International Public Procurement Conference 2026 (IPPC 2026) on April 27, 2025, a forum bringing together policy leaders from East Asia and the Pacific region. The conference aims to elevate public procurement from an administrative mechanism to a strategic economic tool capable of generating employment, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable economic development. The three-day event runs through April 29 at Bangkok's Millennium Hilton under the theme "Procurement for Prosperity: Driving Jobs, Innovation, and Impact in East Asia and Pacific," hosted by the Comptroller General's Department in partnership with the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and over 20 countries.

During his keynote address, Ekniti emphasized that global public procurement represents approximately 12% of world GDP and up to 20% in some developed nations, reflecting the direct impact of government spending on economic structure. He noted that improving public procurement efficiency could save up to 10% of project costs, which could be redirected toward broader and sustainable economic development. Thailand's government has adopted a "4T" policy framework—Target, Transition, Transformation, and Together—focused on resource efficiency, support for sustainable economic transition, workforce development, and enhanced public-private-civil society collaboration.

Thailand is advancing its procurement system through three pillars: digital procurement enhancing transparency and data utilization, green procurement considering long-term environmental impacts, and innovation-focused procurement prioritizing outcomes over price. The government is also improving procedures and reducing barriers for small and medium enterprises through the e-GP system linked to financing via the PromptBiz platform, while promoting the "Made in Thailand" policy to support domestic industries. These initiatives are expected to create employment, stimulate innovation, and generate positive economic, social, and environmental impacts beyond budget savings alone.

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National

Suchart Says Land Bridge Project Can Be Opposed, but Must Not Hinder National Development; Dr. Thon Clarifies Impact on 53.953 Billion Ground Organisms

Thailand's Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Choomklin defended the controversial Land Bridge infrastructure project while acknowledging it requires environmental assessments and public input. A significant discrepancy has emerged in environmental impact calculations, with estimates of affected ground organisms ranging from 1.524 billion to 53.953 billion depending on survey methods used. Experts are calling for new comprehensive surveys to clarify the data before the project advances to Cabinet approval.

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Choomklin commented on the government's plan to present the Land Bridge project to the Cabinet for consideration in June-July. He emphasized that the project must undergo environmental impact assessments and public consultations. While environmental concerns warrant opposition if adverse effects occur, such opposition must be reasoned and not obstruct national development. Suchart noted that the Land Bridge is a major project involving multiple agencies beyond his ministry alone, spanning Andaman National Park and mangrove forests under his department's supervision. When informed of 112 academics and organizations' open letter criticizing serious flaws in the EHIA, Suchart acknowledged this as an important matter and pledged to consult with relevant departments. Dr. Thon Thamrongnawasuwat, Deputy Dean of Kasetsart University's Faculty of Fisheries, highlighted a critical discrepancy: the EHIA uses 47.57 ground organisms per square meter across 32 million square meters of affected area, calculating 1.524 billion organisms. However, field surveys by marine science experts found 1,685 organisms per square meter, yielding a total loss of 53.953 billion organisms—a difference of 52.429 billion. Dr. Thon recommended new surveys by multiple agencies to clarify these figures and ensure public confidence, arguing that Thailand's government should protect national interests, maritime integrity, and fairly compensate affected communities before allowing foreign private investment.

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Police

Palang Pracharath Claims Four-Level Conspiracy Behind MP Kamolasakdi's Murder, Urges Police to Act Decisively

Palang Pracharath alleges a four-level conspiracy in the assassination of MP Kamolasakdi Liwamaung, claiming navy officers are involved beyond the five gunmen already arrested, and urges decisive police action in the Narathiwat case.

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2025, Abdulraman Molo, or Mr. Ben, Deputy Secretary-General of Palang Pracharath (PPP) party, discussed developments in the assassination case of MP Kamolasakdi Liwamaung from Narathiwat. Kamolasakdi recently filed a complaint at Ba Jao police station against two naval officers allegedly involved in the case.

Molo stated that deep investigation suggests the assassination operation involved more than the five gunmen already arrested. According to their findings, the conspiracy operates on four levels: Level 1 (the true mastermind), Level 2 (coordinators and planners), Level 3 (facilitators who provided weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and escape arrangements), and Level 4 (the five shooters already apprehended).

Molo noted that over a month has passed since the incident with no progress against individuals above the hit team, despite all testimonies being recorded. This forced Kamolasakdi to file the complaint himself to bring justice. The two navy officers named in the complaint appear to be Level 2 and 3 operatives, whose interrogation could reveal communication records leading to the top mastermind.

Molo emphasized the case's critical importance, stating that Palang Pracharath cannot claim to protect southern border stability if it cannot even protect its own MPs. He called on the government and security agencies to conduct a transparent investigation, warning that failure to arrest the masterminds would undermine confidence in the justice system and the broader peace-building efforts in the deep south pursued over 20 years.

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National

Going Viral: Chinese Pet Owners Are Raising Chickens as Beloved Companions, Dressing Them Up and Taking Them for Walks

A viral trend in China has emerged where urban residents are keeping Silkie chickens as beloved pets, treating them like children and dressing them in clothes. The phenomenon, which has generated over 3.1 billion video views, is driven by the appeal of low costs, easy care, and lack of odor compared to traditional pets. This shift reflects changing attitudes toward farm animals and represents part of China's rapidly growing alternative pet market worth nearly 100 billion yuan.

27 Apr Khaosod

A viral trend has taken the internet by storm as Chinese residents, especially in major cities, increasingly adopt chickens as cherished pets, treating them with the same care and attention as children. Owners take their chickens on outings in strollers, dress them in clothes, hats, and shoes, while emphasizing the low costs and complete absence of odor problems.

Videos featuring pet chickens have garnered over 3.1 billion combined views, clearly reflecting a changing perspective on pets and livestock animals. One notable case features a woman in Guangdong Province who hatched three chicks from eggs gifted by relatives and fell in love with them, deciding to raise them rather than consume them. These chickens are typically Silkie chickens, an ancient Chinese breed with over 2,000 years of history, known for their gentle temperament, ease of care, and remarkably low monthly feed costs—less than 30 yuan, or roughly 150 baht.

Many owners report that these chickens are intelligent, capable of recognizing voices and communicating with humans through emotional expressions and unique behaviors. Unlike popular pets like dogs and cats, they cause no odor or shedding issues. Some enthusiasts even sleep alongside their pet chickens and design custom leashes, diapers, and outings in baby strollers, complete with full clothing and accessories.

Pet chicken owners believe this trend reduces stress compared to traditional pet care, as chickens require simpler maintenance, lower costs, and simpler lifestyles. Some report that bonding with chickens has transformed their perspective on farm animals—shifting from viewing them merely as food to recognizing them as sentient beings with feelings.

This trend represents part of China's rapidly growing alternative pet movement, which encompasses reptiles, insects, and rodents. Reports indicate approximately 17 million Chinese citizens now own such alternative pets, generating a market value approaching 100 billion yuan, or roughly 500 billion baht—reflecting significant business opportunities and evolving consumer behavior in the modern era.

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Breaking

Four Dead in Well Rescue Operation: Suspected Suffocation from Accumulated Hydrogen Sulfide Gas

A tragic incident in Phang Nga province claimed four lives when residents entered a well to address drought conditions, with all four victims losing consciousness and dying within the confined space. Rescue operations were hindered by poor oxygen levels and the well's narrow dimensions, though rescue workers managed to recover all four bodies with assistance from multiple rescue teams. Preliminary investigation suggests asphyxiation from accumulated hydrogen sulfide gas as the likely cause, prompting authorities to warn the public about the dangers of working in poorly ventilated areas.

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2569, authorities reported on a tragic incident in Phang Nga province where four residents lost their lives after entering a well to address drought problems. The incident occurred on April 26 when residents descended into the well before losing consciousness and dying within the same well. Provincial Governor Pairat Petchyuwan ordered officials under the acting director of the Phang Nga Office of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation to mobilize rescue teams to the scene.

The incident occurred in Moo 11, Ban Saeng Tharam, Kura Subdistrict, Kuraburi District, Phang Nga Province, within an oil palm plantation. The four bodies were found in a shallow well approximately 6 meters deep. Rescue operations were complicated due to the confined space and low oxygen levels inside the well. Officials equipped with specialized rescue equipment were deployed despite the challenging conditions.

Preliminary investigation determined that the victims lost consciousness inside the well, likely due to asphyxiation caused by limited air and insufficient oxygen levels. Rescue teams, with assistance from multiple organizations including Ranong Rescue Foundation and other local units, managed to recover all four bodies.

The victims were identified as Suthon Khokaew (42), Suthad Khokaew (34), Thiridol Chuesang (30), and Khaaha Chuesang (51), all local residents. According to witnesses, the first two victims descended to clean the well before losing consciousness. The third and fourth victims attempted rescue but also succumbed. The fifth victim signaled distress while being lowered by rope and was pulled to safety, while the sixth victim, a rescue worker, experienced similar symptoms but was rescued in time.

Initial assessment suggests poisonous gases such as hydrogen sulfide accumulated in the well over several decades may be responsible. However, authorities will conduct further detailed investigation.

The incident deeply shocked the local community. Officials warned residents to exercise extreme caution when working in confined, poorly ventilated areas without proper protective equipment, particularly during the current drought and extreme heat conditions in Phang Nga. The provincial governor emphasized the importance of health awareness and adequate hydration during this hot season.

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Breaking

Family Land Dispute Along Ping River Resolved: 70-Year-Old Former Monk Strikes Sister with Water Ladle

A 70-year-old former monk in Kamphaeng Phet province attacked his 60-year-old sister with a water ladle during a dispute over riverside property ownership. Authorities successfully mediated the family conflict, with both parties signing an agreement establishing boundaries for their respective businesses and prohibiting further violence.

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, a shocking incident occurred at a riverside food stall along the Ping River in Nong Pling Subdistrict, Mueang District, Kamphaeng Phet Province. Sixty-year-old Malay reported being assaulted by her 70-year-old brother Chalo, who recently disrobed from monastic life. Chalo came to claim rights to the land, strung a rope to mark the boundary, and threatened to use a gun if anyone touched it. When negotiations failed, he struck her head with a water ladle used for scooping soup, causing swelling.

Chalo argued that their father gave him the land to establish himself after leaving the monastery, despite his four siblings already receiving their shares with land titles. He claimed his sister's food stall encroached on his marked territory and that he intended to open a fishing bait shop there. When they could not reach an agreement, he lost his temper.

At the mediation meeting facilitated by Kamphaeng Phet's Social Development and Human Security Office, along with justice officials and Thannachoat On-kham, deputy mayor of Nong Pling municipality, and village leaders, Chalo admitted to using the ladle but claimed he acted under pressure and had been provoked first. He presented an ultimatum: his siblings either accept his rights, pay 1 million baht to buy him out, or agree to let the government reclaim the land.

Eventually, Chalo agreed to allow his relatives to continue their business but required the food stall be relocated to the proper restaurant area. Customers could park on his side, and he could develop his own shop there in the future. Both parties signed a written agreement to end the dispute and establish clear boundaries for their respective business areas, with officials warning Chalo that any further violence would result in legal action.

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National

Eknath to Propose Canceling Over 4,000 MW Private Power Purchase Contracts with "Adder" Scheme to National Energy Committee

Thailand's Energy Minister Eknath Promphan is preparing to cancel over 4,000 megawatts of private renewable energy power purchase contracts under the "Adder" scheme if ongoing negotiations fail. The government has unveiled a new tiered electricity rate structure that will offer cheaper rates for low-consumption households while increasing rates for high-consumption users, with implementation expected to begin in June 2025. The restructuring aims to reduce electricity costs by eliminating expensive renewable energy contracts and is estimated to save approximately 10 satang per unit on the automatic fuel adjustment charge.

27 Apr Khaosod

Energy Minister Eknath Promphan revealed that the government is currently negotiating with relevant agencies to restructure electricity rates and is preparing to terminate contracts with private power producers in renewable energy projects operating under the Additional Price Purchase (Adder) scheme. Currently, over 4,000 megawatts of capacity are covered under automatic contract renewals at rates of approximately 3-5 baht per unit, representing about 10% of total generating capacity and imposing around 20 satang per unit on the automatic fuel adjustment charge (FT). Successful negotiations could reduce electricity costs by approximately 10 satang per unit.

If negotiations fail to reduce rates to appropriate levels—such as solar power not exceeding 2.20 baht per unit and biomass fuel at fair prices—the government is prepared to propose the new rate structure to the cabinet and the National Energy Policy Committee (NEPC) on April 29, 2025. The current stepped tariff structure, similar to progressive taxation, charges less for lower consumption and more for higher consumption, though the differences between tiers remain unclear.

The new electricity rate restructuring will affect 23.2 million households, with implementation beginning in June 2025. The structure includes: customers using up to 200 units (covering 23.2 million households) will pay no more than 3 baht per unit; customers using 200-400 units (4.6 million households) will pay 3.95 baht per unit; and customers using over 401 units (3.2 million households) are awaiting new rates and are encouraged to install solar panels.

For customers exceeding 400 units, the rate will increase by approximately 1 baht to over 5 baht per unit, up from the current 4.50 baht. The government recommends that households using 480-500 units or more install rooftop solar panels to generate their own electricity, with government support through low-interest loans. Installing a 1-kilowatt solar system generates 100-150 units of electricity monthly.

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Breaking

Min Pechaya Speaks Out After Bail Granted, Confident in Her Innocence—Truth is Truth

Acclaimed Thai actors Yuranun Pamornmontri and Pichaya Wattanamontri were granted bail on April 27, 2025, in connection with a fraud case involving the Di-Icon Group, with each posting a 1-million-baht bond. Pichaya expressed gratitude to the court and maintained her innocence, while her lawyer explained that the court approved bail due to lack of flight risk and their consistent denial of charges. The next court hearing for witness and evidence examination is scheduled for July 20, 2025.

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2025, at the Criminal Court on Ratchadamri Road, prosecutors filed charges against acclaimed actors Yuranun Pamornmontri and Pichaya Wattanamontri as defendants in the Di-Icon Group fraud case. Both defendants' lawyers submitted bail requests with collateral for temporary release during trial. The court found that prosecutors had previously issued a non-prosecution order for both defendants, who were subsequently released. However, prosecutors later refiled charges on the same grounds. The court determined that since both defendants appeared as scheduled, showed no signs of fleeing or tampering with evidence, and prosecutors did not oppose bail, temporary release was warranted despite the court's previous denial during investigation due to changed circumstances. However, given the numerous victims and high damages, the court set bail at 1 million baht per person, imposed travel restrictions outside Thailand except with court permission, and required notification to the DSI.

Pichaya stated she was grateful to the court and the justice system for giving her the opportunity to fight her case outside detention. Her lawyer Thanakorn Waekwari explained that the court approved bail because there were no flight risk indicators and the defendants consistently denied the charges. Although they initially submitted 3 million baht in collateral, the court set the bail amount at 1 million baht with conditions prohibiting international travel without court approval and mandatory court appearances.

When asked about overseas charges under investigation, Thanakorn said they had not yet received formal notification. Regarding trial preparation, he noted that the next witness and evidence examination is scheduled for July 20, 2025. He clarified that their case stemmed from Di-Icon but involved a shorter period of Pichaya's participation as a presenter from 2566-2567, and they do not expect their case to be consolidated with the original Di-Icon case.

Pichaya reaffirmed her innocence and stated she has never rested or stopped maintaining her integrity throughout this ordeal. She expressed hope for justice for all parties, saying she trusts in the court's fairness. She emphasized that while this situation has impacted her heavily from the beginning, she is prepared to face the legal process. "Truth is truth," she said, noting that regarding matters she was not involved in, she knows nothing just like everyone else, and awaits the truth to emerge.

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National

GHB Reports Strong Q1/2025 Lending Growth and Declining Bad Debts as Bank Pumps 200 Billion Baht to Support Customers

Government Housing Bank disbursed 50.1 billion baht in new loans during Q1 2025, a 5.72% increase year-on-year, while reducing non-performing loans to 5.46% of outstanding credit.

27 Apr Khaosod

The Government Housing Bank (GHB) announced on April 27, 2025, that it successfully disbursed 50.124 billion baht in new loans during the first quarter of 2025, representing a 5.72% increase compared to the same period last year. The bank continues to drive economic stimulus through the real estate sector while supporting the government's energy-saving credit initiatives.

Managing Director Mathutthana Ampornpisit revealed that despite headwinds from geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting energy prices and household debt concerns impacting property purchase decisions, GHB remains committed to its mission as a state financial institution enabling Thai citizens to achieve homeownership.

Non-performing loans (NPL) totaled 103.885 billion baht, representing 5.46% of total outstanding credit—a 0.31% improvement from the previous year's 5.77%. The bank's quality debt management resulted in total outstanding credit of 1.9 trillion baht (up 0.52%), total assets of 2.057 trillion baht (up 2.39%), and total deposits of 1.805 trillion baht (up 2.54%). The bank maintains a strong capital adequacy ratio (BIS Ratio) of 15.50%, well above the minimum requirement of 8.50%.

GHB has allocated 20 billion baht to assist economically affected customers, offering 0% interest rates for the first three months under the DC4 support scheme. The bank is introducing solar roof-linked loans at 1% interest and expanding its GHB Easy Loan product with complete digital approval processing throughout 2025, targeting disadvantaged and middle-income groups, particularly those with incomes below 3 million baht.

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Breaking

Outback Nightmare: Australian Woman Trapped in Pit Toilet for Over 3 Hours

An Australian woman fell through a collapsing pit toilet at a remote conservation zone near Alice Springs and was trapped in waste for nearly three hours before a passing tradesman rescued her.

27 Apr Khaosod

A woman faced a shocking ordeal during a family outing when she suddenly fell through a pit toilet that collapsed beneath her, trapping her in a waste pit for nearly 3 hours in a remote rural area of Australia. The incident occurred at Henbury Meteorites Conservation Zone, about 145 kilometers south of Alice Springs in Northern Territory. Pit toilets used in such remote areas are basic facilities without flushing systems, where waste is stored in deep underground pits. The structure collapsed without warning, causing the woman to fall more than 2 meters into accumulated human waste, urine, diapers, and garbage that reached up to her waist level. She remained trapped for approximately 3 hours before being rescued by a local tradesman who happened to be passing by. Her husband managed to get the tradesman's attention, who then lowered a rope for the trapped woman to grab while using his vehicle to pull her out. The rescue operation took more than 45 minutes in the filthy and hazardous conditions. After rescue, the woman was taken to a hospital with no serious injuries, though the incident has raised safety concerns about remote infrastructure. NT WorkSafe, the territory's workplace safety authority, confirmed it received notification and launched an investigation into the collapse. Such incidents are not unprecedented in Australia—in 2024, authorities had to demolish a pit toilet in Victoria to rescue a trapped man, and in 2012, a 65-year-old woman in Queensland fell through a pit toilet and broke her leg. Globally, pit toilet accidents have proven fatal, including incidents in South Africa where student deaths from structural collapse led to calls for their removal from schools. This event highlights the dangers of basic infrastructure in rural or remote areas that, despite long-term use, can cause serious accidents if poorly maintained or designed. Regular inspections, proper maintenance, and safe design are critical, especially in locations where people depend on these basic facilities daily.

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National

Lao Lottery Today: April 27, 2569 Drawing Results - Latest Pattana Lottery Winning Numbers

The Lao Pattana Lottery drawing for April 27, 2569 has released its official results across multiple prize categories, from six-digit down to two-digit combinations. The lottery is broadcast live at 8:00 PM Thai time on Lao National Television with prize payouts calculated as multiples of the original purchase amount in kip. Winners can claim prizes based on specific payout rates, with four-digit matches offering the highest returns at 6,000 times the ticket cost.

27 Apr Khaosod

Lao Lottery Today: April 27, 2569 Drawing Results - Latest Pattana Lottery Winning Numbers

Complete results from the Lao government lottery drawing, officially known as the Pattana Lottery, administered under supervision of the Lao Ministry of Finance for the latest drawing on April 27, 2569. All prize results are as follows:

Six-digit prize: XXXXXX Five-digit prize: XXXXX Last four digits: XXXX Last three digits: XXX Last two digits: XX Pattana 5/45 Lottery Results for April 27, 2569

For the Pattana 5/45 lottery drawing, the winning numbers drawn are: XX, XX, XX, XX, XX

Lao Lottery Prize Rates and Reward Calculation Methods

When checking the Lao lottery, players can calculate their winnings based on their purchase amount (in kip) as follows:

Four digits: Prize payout of 6,000 times (for example, purchasing 1,000 kip wins 6,000,000 kip) Three digits: Prize payout of 500 times (for example, purchasing 1,000 kip wins 500,000 kip) Two digits: Prize payout of 60 times (for example, purchasing 1,000 kip wins 60,000 kip)

Understanding the Lao Lottery or "Pattana Lottery" - What Is It? What Time Is the Drawing?

The Lao Lottery, officially called the Pattana Lottery, is operated by the Pattana Lottery State Enterprise under the supervision of the Lao Ministry of Finance. It is the legally authorized government lottery of Laos.

Lao Lottery Schedule and Viewing Channels

Drawing Days: Monday through Friday, while the Pattana 5/45 lottery draws on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Time: Live broadcast begins at 8:00 PM Thai time Viewing Channels: Lao National Radio and Lao National Television Channel 1 (LNTV)

How to Check the Lao Lottery - Six Digits, Last Four Digits, Dream Book Numbers, and Animal Names

The Lao lottery drawing system begins with a single six-digit prize draw, which can be separated into multiple prize categories depending on regional preferences. The most popular method uses the last four digits primarily. Additionally, there are dream book lottery drawings (4/40) and animal name numbers, which are unique features of gambling in Laos.

Lao Lottery Today: April 23, 2569 Drawing Results - Latest Numbers Lao Lottery Today: April 24, 2569 Drawing Results - Latest Numbers

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