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National

Director Fa Opens Her Heart: Continuing to Support Buddhism and Underprivileged Schools Despite Attacks from Amulet Collectors

Director Fa (Pornthipa Supatnukul), a prominent Thai philanthropist and TV station director, continues her charitable work supporting Buddhism and disadvantaged schools despite facing attacks and legal action from amulet traders upset by her decision to freely distribute Buddhist amulets. Known for her extensive animal welfare efforts caring for over 200 stray dogs and various other animals, she has established a Buddhist art museum and donated thousands of amulets to temples nationwide, demonstrating her lifelong commitment to public service and spiritual preservation.

5d ago Khaosod

Director Fa (Pornthipa Supatnukul), director of Fa Hai TV station and chairman of the Giver's Joy Foundation, continues to support Buddhism and underprivileged schools despite facing attacks and legal proceedings from amulet collector groups. She and her lawyer have filed a complaint against a prominent amulet collector's Facebook page for threats and harassment that followed her decision to publicly distribute Buddhist amulets.

The 54-year-old, known by nicknames "The Saintly Fairy" and "The Knight in Shining Armor" of the amulet world, has dedicated her life to public charity and Buddhist art preservation. Her primary mission has been helping stray animals, currently caring for approximately 200 dogs along with cats, pigs, and peacocks, spending up to 200,000 baht monthly on food and medicine. She recently spent over 30,000 baht treating a stray dog with heart failure from Chonburi, believing it was the right thing to do even though the animal couldn't be saved.

Beyond animals, Director Fa supports Buddhism and disadvantaged schools through temple construction, land donations, solar panel installations, and educational scholarships. She is currently working to purchase new land to build a permanent sanctuary for her 200 dogs after the original landlord requested the property back by month's end.

Her prominence in society grew significantly after she decided in 2565 to open a treasure box containing Buddhist amulets inherited from her grandfather, a 94-year-old retired air force officer, and distribute them free to temples and the public throughout Thailand. She stated: "True Buddhism's worth lies in its spiritual benefits, not in price."

This decision brought fierce attacks from amulet traders who lost profits, leading to legal action against one collector for threats and defamation. The Police Information Center has since identified the perpetrator and the case is proceeding through the legal system.

At her residence and television station office in Lam Luka district, Pathum Thani province, Director Fa established the "Thai Buddhist Art Heritage Museum: Somdet Phra Phutthacharya (Luang Por Dhammachayo)," open free to visitors every Saturday and Sunday from 8 AM to 5 PM. Over 2,000 temples have received distributed amulets, with distribution continuing until supplies are exhausted. The facility offers free food and beverages to visitors who come with sincere devotion.

Recently, she donated 500 Buddhist amulets to Warawittharanam Temple in Trat province and Baan Klang Vippassana Temple in Bangkok for rental devotion to raise funds for religious construction projects.

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National

Ratcanok Powers Through Three-Game Battle to Edge Indonesian Opponent, Advances to Thailand Open Semis

Thai badminton stars advanced through the second round of the Toyota Thailand Open 2026, with world No. 7 Ratchanok Intanon narrowly defeating Indonesia's Thalita Ramadani in a three-game women's singles thriller, 2-1. Other Thai players also progressed, including defending champion Kunlavut Vitidsarn in men's singles and former champion Pornpawee Chochuwong in women's singles, setting up competitive semifinals.

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The Toyota Thailand Open 2026, a World Tour Super 500 badminton tournament, continued its second-round women's singles competition at Nimibutr Sports Building on May 14. World No. 7 'May' Ratchanok Intanon faced off against Indonesia's Thalita Ramadani Virjiawati, ranked 61st globally. Ratchanok needed all three games to secure victory, winning 2-1 with scores of 21-16, 19-21, and 21-15, earning a spot in the semifinals against Japan's Hina Agedzhi, world No. 28.

Former champion 'Mew' Pornpawee Chochuwong, ranked world No. 8, defeated Yataweemintr Ketukliang, world No. 136, decisively 2-0 with scores of 21-13 and 21-17. She will next face 'Pink' Pichayadon Opassanipat, world No. 27, who defeated India's Davika Sihag (world No. 40) 2-0 with scores of 23-21 and 21-11.

In women's singles, 'Cream' Busanan Ongbamrungphan, world No. 18, fell to Japan's Akane Yamaguchi, the top seed and world No. 3, in a close match 1-2 with scores of 12-21, 21-17, and 17-21, ending her tournament run at this stage.

In men's singles, Thailand's 'View' Kunlavut Vitidsarn, world No. 2 and defending champion, faced Chinese Taipei's Lee Chia Hao, ranked 36th. Vitidsarn showed stellar form, dispatching his opponent 2-0 with dominant scores of 21-11 and 21-13 to advance to the semifinals, where he will meet India's Lakshya Sen, world No. 11.

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Community

Thai Oil Partners with Water Sports Association to Launch Lifesaving Initiative, Reducing Drowning Crisis for Seventh Year

Thai Oil and the Thailand Water Sports Association launched their seventh annual lifesaving program aimed at reducing childhood drowning deaths by teaching youth swimming and survival skills. The initiative, supported by Laem Chabang Municipality, addresses the alarming rate of water-related fatalities among children under 15 by providing essential water safety education and certifications.

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The Thailand Water Sports Association, in partnership with Thai Oil and Laem Chabang Municipality, has launched the 2025 Lifesaving Initiative to reduce drowning fatalities, marking the seventh consecutive year of the program. The initiative seeks to equip youth with essential water safety skills, including floating, swimming proficiency, and survival techniques to reduce daily risks and promote safety.

The opening ceremony was led by Tanawit Tossakul, Secretary-General of the Thailand Water Sports Association, alongside Chetsadee Prongjit, Corporate Relations Manager at Thai Oil, who spoke about the company's continued support, and Deputy Mayor Santi Sritanthong, who welcomed participants and stressed the importance of preventing water accidents involving children and youth.

Historically, drowning remains a leading cause of death among Thai children under 15 years old. Most incidents occur in natural water sources including pools, dams, canals, ponds, and reservoirs. The primary causes stem from unsafe water activities or accidental falls into water bodies, combined with a lack of swimming and survival skills. Many victims were not wearing life jackets or flotation devices. This program addresses these critical gaps by teaching water survival techniques, proper rescue methods, and swimming skills.

The closing ceremony was attended by Chamri Anant, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at Thai Oil, Deputy Mayor Santi Sirilanyang, and Major General Petcharat Limpraserit, Vice-President and Treasurer of the Thailand Water Sports Association. Certificates of achievement were presented to all program participants, recognizing their successful completion of water safety training.

This lifesaving initiative represents a significant collaborative effort to promote continuous water safety education and skill development, ultimately aiming to reduce drowning fatalities and create a sustainable culture of water safety for Thai children and youth.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Police

Former Village Chief Arrested in Murder-for-Hire Case of Retired Officer; Police Oppose Bail Despite Suspect's Denial

A 73-year-old former village chief in Lopburi has been arrested and charged with hiring someone to kill a retired military officer who was fatally shot in March. Police have already apprehended both the shooter and intermediary, and authorities are opposing bail due to the serious nature of the premeditated murder-for-hire charge.

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On May 14, 2026, Pol. Lt. Gen. Yarayong Santipricha, commander of the Lopburi Provincial Police, arrived at Nong Muang Police Station in Lopburi to interrogate 73-year-old Winai (surname withheld), a former village chief, with his lawyer present. Winai was arrested by Region 1 Police Investigation Unit and Lopburi Provincial Police with a warrant from Lopburi Provincial Court (No. 116/2569) dated May 12, 2026, on charges of premeditated murder-for-hire. He was arrested at his residence in Chon Sai Deach Subdistrict, Nong Muang District, Lopburi Province.

The case stems from the shooting death of Pol. Aof. Sai Deach, known as Lieutenant Colonel Jod, a 71-year-old retired military officer, who was killed on March 6 while cycling home in Moo 4 Village, Chon Sai Deach Subdistrict, Nong Muang District, Lopburi Province.

Police previously arrested Niwat (surname withheld), 72, the alleged shooter. He has denied involvement, so police collected gunpowder residue evidence and CCTV footage while continuing to search for the motorcycle and weapon used. Police also arrested Kittikorn (surname withheld), 73, a lathe operator, who allegedly contacted Niwat to arrange the killing of Lieutenant Colonel Jod. Both suspects deny any involvement.

After gathering evidence, police obtained an arrest warrant for Winai, the alleged mastermind. The suspect appeared nervous and initially denied all charges. Pol. Lt. Gen. Yarayong revealed that investigators are currently questioning Winai and will petition the court to deny bail, citing the gravity of the crime, severe penalties, and concerns about potential witness tampering. Authorities believe they have sufficient evidence to prosecute all suspects involved. The motive for the killing is still under investigation.

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Police

Tragic Stabbing: Mental Health Patient Stops Taking Medication, Stabs Sleeping Brother Fatally

A 49-year-old man in Surat Thani Province was fatally stabbed by his younger brother, who has a mental health condition and had stopped taking his prescribed medication. The victim walked to his mother with his wound before being rushed to the hospital, where he died from a stab wound that pierced his lung. The suspect, 33, has been detained and will undergo psychiatric evaluation.

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Tragic Stabbing: Mental Health Patient Stops Taking Medication, Stabs Sleeping Brother Fatally. A 49-year-old man was sleeping in his room when his younger brother, who has a mental health condition and had stopped taking his medication, stabbed him in the ribs with a knife while in an altered state of mind. The injured man walked to his mother with his hand on the wound, telling her 'I've been stabbed by my brother,' before being rushed to the hospital. He ultimately died from his injuries.

On May 14, 2569, Lieutenant Colonel Kannawatch Gaewruang, an investigator at Bang Madue Police Station in Surat Thani Province, received a report of the stabbing incident that occurred at a residence in Krud Sub-district, Pun Phin District, Surat Thani Province. Police immediately went to investigate with patrol units and detectives.

At the scene inside the bedroom, police found blood. The victim, Yutthana, 49 years old, had been stabbed in the back ribs with the knife piercing his lung. He was transported to the hospital but died shortly after. The suspect is his younger brother, Ratthapon, 33 years old, who has been detained.

The mother reported that before the incident, her older son was sleeping in his room when he came out holding his wound, saying 'I've been stabbed by my brother.' She immediately took him to the hospital. The younger son had been under psychiatric care with medication and injections but had stopped taking his medicine for some time. Recently, health center staff had counseled him to resume his medication, but in the past 2-3 days, he began talking to himself and became easily irritated, which led to him fatally stabbing his older brother.

Authorities have taken Ratthapon into custody and will arrange for a psychiatric evaluation to determine appropriate legal action.

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National

Defense Minister Monitors Rights and Benefits for Military Personnel Affected by Thai-Cambodian Border Clashes

Thailand's Defense Minister General Adul Buntharmsarng chaired a meeting to review rights and welfare benefits for military personnel affected by border clashes with Cambodia. The government is implementing comprehensive long-term support including compensation, pensions, and career assistance for injured or disabled service members. The Defense Ministry emphasized that caring for those who sacrificed for the nation must be continuous and dignified support, not just temporary measures.

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On May 14, 2025, at the Ministry of Defense, General Adul Buntharmsarng, Defense Minister, chaired a meeting to monitor rights and welfare benefits for military personnel affected by the Thai-Cambodian border conflict. Representatives from the Royal Thai Armed Forces Command, all service branches, and relevant agencies attended the meeting.

The meeting reviewed progress on rights, benefits, and compensation for affected military personnel, including updates to regulations and assistance guidelines to match current circumstances. The aim is to ensure care for service members and their families is swift, fair, and comprehensive.

The Defense Minister emphasized that the rights and entitlements of military personnel and their families who serve to protect national sovereignty are a matter of highest urgency and priority. He stressed that any consideration of rights and benefits must be thorough and careful, noting that while officials deliberate in air-conditioned rooms, these brave soldiers fight on actual battlefields.

The meeting received a status update on rights and welfare implementation for personnel affected by the Thai-Cambodian border situation, with key objectives including reducing disparities, accelerating compensation payments, modernizing regulations, and providing systematic care for personnel and families.

Discussions also covered support options for injured or disabled service members, including compensation payments, special pensions, reinstatement to suitable government positions, and long-term career and quality-of-life assistance.

The Defense Ministry affirmed that care for sacrificed personnel and their families must not be merely temporary but rather continuous, comprehensive, and honorable support designed to boost morale among those defending the nation and its people.

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National

Manchester United Unveil New Home Kit for 2026-27 Season – First Match Date Revealed

Manchester United and Adidas have unveiled the club's new home kit for the 2026-27 season, featuring a classic red design inspired by their iconic 1970s uniform and celebrating 50 years since their 1977 domestic cup victory. The jersey combines heritage aesthetics with modern technology, including 3D engineered fabric and advanced CLIMACOOL+ moisture management. The new kit will make its debut in a Premier League match against Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on May 17th.

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Adidas and Manchester United, the renowned English Premier League club, have launched their 2026-27 home kit by blending their storied heritage with contemporary design to create a new milestone in the club's history.

The 2026-27 home shirt features a red polo-style design decorated with striped detailing along the collar and sleeve cuffs, reviving and reimagining the club's iconic 1970s kit. The striped collar was inspired by the kit worn during the club's domestic cup championship victory in 1977, marking the 50th anniversary of that achievement with a modernized update that captures both the nostalgia of the past and cutting-edge innovation.

The sleeve features Adidas's signature white stripes that contrast boldly with the red shirt body, complemented by black accents throughout that represent the club's colors. The back of the neck displays the "United" lettering. The home kit will be paired with white shorts and black socks.

From a technical standpoint, the jersey is engineered from advanced 3D fabric that is lightweight, ergonomically fitted, and provides exceptional comfort and freedom of movement. It incorporates Adidas's latest CLIMACOOL+ technology for superior moisture absorption and sweat-wicking, keeping players cool and dry throughout the match. The strategically positioned mesh paneling ensures optimal airflow during play.

The new home kit will debut in the Premier League match at Old Trafford against Nottingham Forest on May 17th.

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National

Zhao Lusi sends Thai inhaler brand "Hanuman" viral in China

Chinese actress Zhao Lusi has inadvertently boosted the profile of Thai herbal inhaler brand Hanuman after featuring the product in a social media video following her visit to Thailand. The exposure on Douyin, China's equivalent of TikTok, has sparked growing interest in the product among Chinese consumers and strengthened the brand's popularity in both markets. The incident highlights the power of celebrity influence in promoting Thai products as part of the country's broader cultural appeal across Asia.

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BANGKOK — 14 May 2026, Thai herbal inhaler brand Hanuman said it had gained growing attention in China after Chinese actress Zhao Lusi featured the product in a social media video following her recent visit to Thailand.

Samunprai Hanuman Co., Ltd., producer of the Hanuman herbal inhaler, said the appearance of the product in a video posted by Zhao on Douyin, China's version of TikTok, had helped boost interest in Thai products among Chinese consumers.

The actress recently travelled to Thailand for a concert performance and later shared a casual video after returning to China showing herself eating Thai seaweed snacks. Fans quickly noticed a Hanuman herbal inhaler placed prominently on a table in the clip.

The video drew widespread attention from fans in both Thailand and China, with many social media users commenting on the actress's use of Thai products and describing the inhaler as part of Thailand's growing "soft power" appeal across Asia.

The company said the exposure had strengthened the Hanuman brand's popularity in both the Thai and Chinese markets.

Hanuman herbal inhalers are marketed as helping relieve dizziness, nasal congestion and fatigue through the use of traditional Thai herbal ingredients. The products are widely sold at convenience stores, including 7-Eleven Thailand, and pharmacies nationwide.

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Police

Chinese man arrested for damaging Suvarnabhumi gate

A Chinese passenger identified as Zheng was arrested at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport after allegedly kicking and damaging two automated passport control gates and verbally abusing immigration officers on May 13. The suspect forced his way through the checkpoint without authorization and attempted to physically confront officers before his wife intervened. Airport authorities estimate the damage to the machines at approximately 481,500 baht, and the man faces charges for insulting public officials and damaging government property.

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BANGKOK — 14 May 2026, Thai police have charged a Chinese passenger accused of damaging automated passport control gates and verbally abusing immigration officers at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi Airport, authorities said.

Police said the incident occurred at about 14:35 on 13 May in the outbound immigration area of Zone 2 at Thailand's main international airport.

According to immigration police, the man, identified as Zheng, allegedly kicked and damaged two automated passport control gates before forcing his way through the checkpoint without authorisation.

Authorities said the suspect then shouted insults at officers in Chinese, including profanities directed at police, and attempted to physically confront officers while they were on duty. Police said the man's wife intervened and restrained him before the situation escalated further.

Immigration officers filed complaints accusing the suspect of insulting public officials during the performance of their duties and damaging government property.

Airport officials said the damaged passport control machines sustained severe damage estimated at about 481,500 baht ($13,000), excluding value-added tax.

The suspect was reportedly travelling on Spring Airlines flight 9C7282. Police said investigators were gathering evidence and proceeding with legal action.

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Police

Economist Party Set to Unveil Big Ch., Former Renowned Police Chief, as Bangkok Governor Candidate

The Economist Party is set to field former National Police Commissioner Chaiyathep Saesaewetch as its Bangkok governor candidate, shifting focus from initially-discussed rival Big J., with backing from his influential classmate still report

5d ago Khaosod

The Economist Party is making clearer moves to field a candidate for Bangkok Governor, with political circles buzzing about the party's plan to launch a prominent police figure into the capital's election race. Previously, attention focused heavily on Big J., a retired senior police officer considered a potential key player in the Bangkok gubernatorial contest. However, recent high-level party sources reveal a strategic shift, with Big Ch., a former Police Chief who has prior political experience and strong ties within senior police networks, emerging as the likely candidate instead. Sources indicate Big Ch.'s appearance is no coincidence but the result of internal discussions, with backing from Big J., his peer and classmate, remaining in play despite Big J. not running himself. "Initially, outsiders focused on Big J., but the party's actual trump card may be different," sources said. "Big Ch. has civil service experience, political background, and an extraordinary network. Support from classmate Big J. hasn't disappeared." Big Ch. is a well-known retired senior police officer who held important positions in Bangkok before transitioning into politics after retirement, making him seen as having administrative credentials, security expertise, and political acumen combined. Big J., initially mentioned, is Big Ch.'s classmate and continues to be watched as potentially playing an indirect supporting role in the Economist Party's Bangkok strategy this time. Political observers have noted that the Economist Party may be employing a misdirection tactic, allowing speculation to flow toward one name before revealing its true candidate at the opportune moment for maximum political impact. To date, the Economist Party has made no official announcement of its Bangkok Governor candidate, though party sources confirm discussions are near finalization. If nothing changes, Big Ch.'s name could become major political news for the capital in the coming period. Big Ch. is believed to be Pol. Lt. Gen. Chaiyathep Saesaewetch, former National Police Commissioner and former Thai Loyalty Party secretary.

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National

Fern Pimchanok Does Not Support Sexual Misconduct in Any Case, Responds with Trembling Voice; Believes Close Friend Mind Can Find a Way Forward

Actress Fern Pimchanok has publicly stated she does not support sexual misconduct in any circumstance while addressing ongoing controversy involving close friend Mind Laphisalai. In an interview at an event in Chonburi, Fern defended herself and others who showed support for Mind, clarifying their actions were meant to express concern rather than endorse any wrongdoing. She expressed hope that Mind would eventually find a way through the difficult situation.

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Actress Fern Pimchanok Luoviseshapibun, who attended the 'BABY BRIGHT SUN SUN BEACH CLUB' event at Cafe Casa Tropika in Bangsaen, Chonburi, gave an interview about her close friend Mind's situation. When asked about Mind, Fern responded: "I saw the news yesterday and I was genuinely shocked. It's quite heavy. I was surprised just like everyone else. I didn't know Mind's husband well—we only met at the wedding. I never knew details about his family. As for the audio clip, I felt... sorry for the victim. And I can't accept sexual misconduct in any case. It's deeply disturbing."

Regarding her friends in the industry who supported Mind but faced criticism: "I understand. These matters spark intense social movements. I understand why such things happen. Since I hadn't spoken with Mind, when she posted things, it was like a way of communicating that she wanted us to know she was there. We're very concerned about her wellbeing. As for liking her post, I don't want that interpreted as blanket approval. I'm confident that she—and many others like us—recognize the severity of this issue. She would never support sexual misconduct in any case."

For now, I can only express my concern for her. Eventually she'll find her own way through this. Even if right now she seems not to see anyone (voice wavering), when she turns around, she'll see us still here."

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