Tourism

Fantastic News! Suchart Celebrates Ao Kuak's Recognition as One of the World's Top 10 Beaches in 2026, Vows to Maintain Standards

Ao Kuak beach in Phang Nga's Similan Islands National Park ranked 10th globally in the 2026 World's 50 Best Beaches list, with Thailand's environment minister pledging to maintain strict conservation standards to preserve the site's pristin

5 May Khaosod

Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed delight and pride in the success of Ao Kuak within the Similan Islands National Park being ranked among the world's top 10 beaches for 2026. He thanked park officials for their strong natural resource management and emphasized maintaining strict management standards to preserve this world-class beauty sustainably.

On May 5, 2026, the global rankings of "The World's 50 Best Beaches 2026" were announced by a network of over 1,000 tourism experts worldwide. Ao Kuak (Donald Duck Bay) within the Similan Islands National Park achieved the 10th position globally.

This recognition reflects the bay's outstanding natural beauty, complete ecosystem integrity, and unique characteristics acknowledged on the international stage.

Minister Suchart Chomklin expressed his joy and pride in this success, thanking the Department of National Parks staff and all relevant parties for their strong commitment to natural resource management. He emphasized maintaining strict management standards and using this achievement as a model to elevate national parks throughout the country, promoting Thailand's conservation-based tourism for sustainable growth and international recognition.

Athitpol Charoenchansri, Director-General of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation, noted this success as a point of national pride, reflecting the effectiveness of proactive management measures including visitor capacity limits, seasonal resource rehabilitation closures, and strict waste management, which help maintain high-level marine and coastal ecosystem integrity.

Sirivat Supsai, Director of Similan Islands National Park, explained that Ao Kuak on Eighth Island (Similan Island) features crystal-clear waters, fine white sand, and the distinctive "Sailing Stone" rock formation that attracts visitors worldwide. Balancing tourism with conservation and cooperation from operators and visitors have been key factors in gaining international recognition.

The Department of National Parks, Wildlife and Plant Conservation affirmed its commitment to conserving and protecting invaluable natural resources, ensuring this world-class beauty remains for Thailand and future generations in a sustainable manner.

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Breaking

First-time cannabis use leaves Chinese man in distress at Pattaya shop

A 35-year-old Chinese tourist suffered a severe medical emergency at a Pattaya cannabis shop after using the substance for the first time, experiencing muscle spasms, breathing difficulties, and persistent vomiting. Emergency responders arrived at the "Bow Thailand" shop and provided initial treatment with ammonia inhalants, though the man refused hospitalization. Health authorities have warned that first-time and inexperienced cannabis users, particularly those trying potent strains, face heightened risks of adverse reactions.

5 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — A Chinese man reportedly suffered severe adverse symptoms after trying cannabis for the first time, prompting an emergency response at a Pattaya shop. The incident was reported at 01:30 to the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya Rescue Centre. Responders were dispatched to a cannabis shop identified as "Bow Thailand" in Soi 15, Pattaya Second Road, South Pattaya, Nong Prue subdistrict, Bang Lamung district.

At the scene, a 35-year-old Chinese national was found experiencing muscle spasms, laboured breathing, chest tightness and persistent vomiting. Friends had attempted to assist by applying cold compresses, but his condition did not improve.

Rescue personnel provided initial assistance, including the use of ammonia inhalants in an attempt to revive him. However, the man refused further treatment and declined transport to hospital, leading responders to stand down.

According to Mr. Suriya Chamnan-yom, a volunteer with the Sawang Boriboon Pattaya unit, the call initially reported chest tightness at a cannabis shop on Pattaya Second Road. Upon arrival, responders found the patient in distress with convulsions and continuous vomiting.

Staff at the shop said the group had purchased cannabis and the man began experiencing symptoms shortly after taking a single inhalation. He was reported to have no known underlying medical conditions.

Health authorities note that while cannabis is widely used, first-time and inexperienced users may experience adverse effects, particularly with higher doses or potent strains. Experts generally advise first-time users to start with a very low dose, avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances, and use cannabis in a safe, supervised environment. Individuals with underlying health conditions or sensitivity to psychoactive substances may face higher risks.

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Breaking

Tourist attacks Thai man after beach cannabis warning

A fight broke out on Pattaya beach when a foreign tourist attacked a Thai man named Kittipong Sa-ardchandee, 29, after being asked to stop smoking cannabis in public. The tourist allegedly became aggressive and assaulted the visitor from behind, and had apparently attacked other Thai diners earlier with similar complaints. Municipal officers intervened and ordered the tourist back to his accommodation to prevent further escalation.

5 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — May 4, 2026. A fight erupted on Pattaya beach after a foreign tourist allegedly assaulted a Thai man who had asked him to stop smoking cannabis in a public area, according to police reports.

Kittipong Sa-ardchandee, 29, the victim, said he had been relaxing and eating with relatives by the beachfront when a group of foreign tourists at a nearby table began smoking cannabis, with the smell drifting to other visitors.

He said he approached them politely to ask that they not smoke in a public space. Despite the tourist's Thai girlfriend attempting to intervene, the man reportedly became angered.

Kittipong said that as he turned to walk back to his table, the foreign tourist adopted a fighting stance and attacked him from behind, triggering a scuffle. The assailant allegedly claimed to be a boxer.

The victim added that earlier, another group of Thai diners had also warned the same tourist and were similarly assaulted.

Municipal officers quickly intervened to stop the incident, but the foreign tourist continued to provoke the group, pacing near the scene and making obscene gestures. Authorities eventually ordered him to return to his accommodation and instructed both parties to disperse to prevent further escalation.

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National

Palang Pracharath Party Disciplines Committee Eyes Punishment for Pandith Over Blanket Drug Allegations Against Village Headmen

Thailand's Palang Pracharath party has launched disciplinary proceedings against Bangkok MP Pandith Nuamchaim over his remarks about drug issues that broadly implicated village headmen and community leaders. Party spokesman Prirsth Wachrsindu stated that while Pandith has apologized publicly, the party will impose disciplinary measures proportionate to his inappropriate blanket accusations, with a final decision expected on May 6. The incident highlights growing scrutiny of the party's messaging as it seeks to differentiate itself from other political parties.

5 May Khaosod

At 9:45 AM on May 5, 2025, at Parliament, Prirsth Wachrsindu, a Palang Pracharath party-list MP, spoke about the party's apology statement regarding MP Pandith Nuamchaim's controversial remarks on drug issues and his implicit references to village headmen and community leaders. Wachrsindu stated that the party's primary concern was Pandith's blanket accusations, which the party views as inappropriate despite understanding the speaker's intent to highlight the drug problem. Pandith has been summoned into the party's disciplinary process, with a meeting scheduled for May 6 to consider proportionate sanctions. The party will clarify any further measures.

When asked about some village headmen saying an apology alone was insufficient and demanding Pandith reconsider his actions, Wachrsindu said that Pandith now acknowledges his inappropriate use of accusatory language and has publicly apologized. However, he emphasized that the party's disciplinary measures must be proportionate to the offense.

Regarding Deputy Progressive Movement Secretary Piyabutr Sangkanokkul's Facebook posts about Palang Pracharath's work, Wachrsindu explained that the party's credibility stems from clearly showing the public how Palang Pracharath differs from other political parties and how its agenda benefits the nation's future. Therefore, the party will continue presenting distinctive policy positions.

When asked if Palang Pracharath's new direction follows the correct strategy, Wachrsindu said the party held sufficient discussion at its general meeting. The party must provide clarity on personnel, present a vision for how it would govern differently if given the opportunity, and demonstrate benefits to the public. Moving forward, the party will focus on actions and proof through its opposition role in oversight, its recommendations to the government, work through shadow cabinet committees, and parliamentary committee contributions.

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National

Senator Norrasetr Postpones Land Bridge Bill to Next Week, Expresses Concerns Over Government's Rush to Close Deal, Suggests Public Referendum

Senator Norrasetr postponed a Senate debate on the Land Bridge project to next week, citing concerns that the government is rushing to close the deal without proper scrutiny and suggesting a public referendum may be needed.

5 May Khaosod

At 9:30 a.m. on May 5, 2025, at Government House, Senator Norrasetr Prajyakorn, chairman of the Senate Committee on Political Development, Public Participation, Human Rights, Liberties and Consumer Protection, announced the postponement of a bill requesting the government to reconsider the Land Bridge project. Although the bill had been added to the Senate agenda, numerous senators expressed strong interest in debating it and requested time to study the details. At least two Senate committees, including his own and the Transport Committee, have been studying the issue and calling relevant agencies to clarify the facts. Senators requested moving the bill to next week to allow adequate time for preparation. "After careful consideration, I believe we need sufficient time to thoroughly study the information without rushing and without debate lacking a proper factual basis. Therefore, I've decided to postpone this bill to next week so that senators can properly prepare for the discussion," Norrasetr stated. He also mentioned submitting an interpellation to Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, already on the agenda, requesting him to present clarifications and answer questions confidently about how this project will drive the nation's economic development. When asked whether appointing Deputy PM and Finance Minister Ek Niti Nitithaprasop as chairman of the Land Bridge project study committee and confirming no conflicts of interest could ease concerns, Norrasetr said the concerns remain unresolved. He noted the project is extraordinarily large with significant impacts, yet was not part of the ruling party's campaign platform nor the government's policy statement—making it suspicious that such a major initiative wasn't in the government's declaration but became the first priority it pushed aggressively. "This raises a question: why the rush? Is it to solve economic problems or to rush closing a deal?" Norrasetr asked. He warned that the government's introduction of the Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) law covering Chumphon, Ranong, Surat Thani, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces should be closely monitored, as there are lessons from the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). The SEC law reportedly mirrors the EEC entirely, and the EEC experience—with its powerful committee expediting environmental laws—has essentially turned the eastern region into a "zero-margin capital" zone.

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National

ASEAN and China Join Forces to Combat Cryptocurrency-Based Online Gambling with Digital Money Trail Tracking

ASEAN and China held a workshop in Ho Chi Minh City to train law enforcement officials on tracking cryptocurrency transactions used in online gambling operations. The May 5-6 event focused on strengthening cross-border cooperation to disman

5 May Khaosod

ASEAN and China Join Forces to Combat Cryptocurrency-Based Online Gambling with Digital Money Trail Tracking Strategy

On May 5, 2025, Deputy National Police Commissioner Trairongpipattanayon, Region 4 Police Commander Kritachaya Bamrungratanyos, and their delegations participated in an ASEAN-China workshop to exchange knowledge and expertise in combating technology-enabled crime on an international stage.

The workshop took place in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from May 5-6, 2025, with the objective of enhancing law enforcement officials' capacity to address online gambling operations utilizing digital currencies as primary instruments.

The workshop curriculum emphasized knowledge transfer on cryptocurrency transaction tracing and analysis techniques, which represent the core of investigating modern online gambling networks characterized by complexity and cross-border connections.

Additionally, the forum served as a critical platform for strengthening international cooperation through information, best practice, and technology sharing to improve effectiveness in "following the money" strategies and ultimately achieve systematic arrests of criminals at the organizational level.

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National

Ministry of Public Health Warns Against Tooth Worm Myth, Clarifies That Cavities Are Caused by Bacteria, Not Parasites

Thailand's Ministry of Public Health debunks online myths about "tooth worms," confirming that cavities are caused by bacteria, not parasites, and emphasizing proper prevention through brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits.

5 May Khaosod

The Ministry of Public Health's Dental Institute warns the public not to believe false information being spread online about treating tooth cavities through various methods claiming to cure "tooth worms." The actual cause of cavities is bacterial infection, not parasites or insects. Cavities are caused by Streptococcus mutans bacteria, which is found in dental plaque and is the primary cause of tooth decay. When these bacteria break down starches and sugars from food, they produce acid that gradually destroys tooth enamel and dentin, creating cavities. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the tooth pulp, causing inflammation, severe pain, or abscess.

Proper cavity prevention methods include: brushing teeth with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily, regularly using dental floss to remove plaque between teeth, and visiting a dentist every six months for checkups and tartar removal. The Ministry urges the public not to share or forward unscientific claims and to rely only on information from trusted sources.

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National

Akkhananth Orders Overhaul of ONEC Curriculum, Phasing Out 2008 Materials to Complete Nationwide Rollout of New Curriculum by 2027

Thailand's Deputy Education Minister Akkhananth Kankhitinant announced a major curriculum overhaul, ordering the Office of the National Education Commission (ONEC) to replace its outdated 2008 curriculum with a new 2024 version across all provinces by the 2027 academic year. The decision responds to opposition lawmakers' concerns about the aging curriculum serving over 800,000 students annually. Akkhananth welcomed parliamentary scrutiny on the education issue and stressed this is a permanent policy to keep Thailand's education system current with global developments.

5 May Khaosod

Deputy Education Minister Akkhananth Kankhitinant addressed progress on reviewing the Office of the National Education Commission (ONEC) on May 5, 2025, at Government House. He acknowledged concerns raised by opposition Pheu Thai Party lawmakers regarding outdated ONEC curricula and ordered ONEC Director-General Keattipat Suphavanich to explain why the old curriculum remained in use and to establish an expert committee to resolve the issue.

Akkhananth noted that ONEC currently operates two curricula: the 2008 version and the 2024 version, which has been piloted in 12 provinces. Field visits to Chaiyaphum Province revealed that the outdated 2008 curriculum was still in use, containing obsolete content. "We must stay current with global developments and changing circumstances," Akkhananth stated. "With over 800,000 students annually in ONEC programs, using substandard curricula creates long-term problems we must address now."

Regarding the timeline for curriculum development, Akkhananth explained that ONEC operates a continuous curriculum model. On May 9-10, students will transition from the old to the new 2024 curriculum. The complete nationwide transition to the new curriculum is expected by the first term of the 2027 academic year.

Akkhananth disclosed that an expert committee for textbook inspection and another for establishing quality standards have been established to ensure no future neglect. These committees will work long-term, as education requires continuous improvement. He emphasized this is not a temporary policy that changes with governments but a permanent educational standard.

When asked about cooperation between himself and the ONEC director-general, Akkhananth praised her diligent work and noted their similar policy approaches, citing collaborative efforts with the Department of Corrections regarding vulnerable groups. He stressed that effective collaboration requires constant communication and mutual respect, and that he avoids interfering in her administrative duties, allowing her to work freely.

Regarding Pheu Thai Party's plan to submit parliamentary questions or gazette inquiries, Akkhananth expressed gratitude for their oversight, noting that he considers education a critical national matter. When asked if he worried about the scrutiny affecting his ministerial position, Akkhananth laughed and responded that he will do his best today, believing that improved work over the next decade will benefit Thailand, regardless of temporary dissatisfaction.

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Police

Chinese Man Arrested at Airport After Stabbing Wife and Child; Couple's Escape Plan Foiled

A Chinese man was arrested at Krabi Airport while attempting to flee to Malaysia after stabbing his wife and 13-year-old son in Phuket, leaving both victims with serious injuries.

5 May Khaosod

A Chinese man was arrested at Krabi Airport after stabbing his wife and 13-year-old son, causing serious injuries. The suspect had purchased airline tickets for flight AK867 from Krabi to Kuala Lumpur departing at 11:50 AM in an attempt to escape the country.

According to reports on May 5, 2569, police received notification on May 4 about a foreign national using a knife to injure his wife and child. Officers found substantial bloodstains inside the residence located in Moo 5, Chalong Subdistrict, Muang Phuket District. The injured victims were transported to the hospital.

Neighbors revealed that the couple, 48-year-old Zou Yan and 30-year-old Chi Ting Lin, frequently argued. They shared a 13-year-old son together. Following the incident, the suspect drove a red Suzuki Swift to the hospital before fleeing.

Police determined that the suspect had escaped to Krabi Province and booked flight AK867 to Kuala Lumpur. Coordinating with Krabi Provincial Police, officers successfully apprehended him at Krabi Airport. Both victims are out of danger and recovering in the hospital. The suspect was brought in for questioning at Chalong Police Station before formal charges are filed.

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National

Hallodara – PP-Biwking Wins Big at Weibo 2026 Awards

PP Kritaphat and Biwking Putipong won top awards at the Weibo 2026 International Entertainment Awards, with PP taking Favorite International Artist and Biwking claiming Impactful International Artist honors.

5 May Khaosod

PP Kritaphat and Biwking Putipong were the standout winners at the Weibo 2026 International Entertainment Awards. Actor Fay Phatthradon revealed his girlfriend Earn Arissa has claimed his heart, and he's planning to take her to visit a sacred shrine in Hong Kong as part of a proposal. When asked about proposal details, Fay confirmed he's quite busy but will make the trip happen, noting Repulse Bay as the planned location.

Meanwhile, Fay's co-star Top Thosapon is taking a different approach with his shrine prayers, focusing on health rather than romance. "I'm not asking for a soulmate," Top explained. "Instead, I'm asking for good health and clear skin. I've been sleeping poorly lately, so I'm praying for that to improve. I want to keep things simple and natural-looking."

At the Weibo International Entertainment Awards 2026, PP Kritaphat claimed the title of Favorite International Artist, while Biwking Putipong won the Impactful International Artist award.

HBO Max is rolling out a lineup of films and series this May including "Wuthering Heights" starring Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi, "Bugonia" with Emma Stone, and "The Running Man" featuring Glenn Powell and Josh Brolin. Japanese drama "Song of the Samurai" stars Yuki Yamada and Shuhei Uesugi, while Korean offerings include "Yumi's Cells Season 3" with Kim Go-eun, "Filing for Love" featuring Shin Hye-sun, and "The Legend of Kitchen Soldier" with Park Ji-hoon.

Fans can look forward to the "2026 Butterbear Camping Club Fam Meeting" on June 13, 2026 at Union Hall, starting at 6 PM. Tickets range from 990 to 5,900 baht and are available through ThaiTicketMajor.

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Community

Massive Python Invades Home: Pong Gapol Reveals Wife Nearly Died in Fright, Screaming She Saw a Ghost

A massive python invaded content creator Pong Gapol's home in Thailand, terrifying his wife who screamed thinking she'd seen a ghost before realizing the massive intruder was a snake.

5 May Khaosod

It was almost a crocodile-sized encounter! Content creator Pong Gapol posted a startling video on May 5th showing a large silver and gold-colored python slithering into his house, causing his wife to scream in terror. In his caption, he wrote: "Friends, my wife almost had a heart attack! She screamed so loud thinking she saw a ghost. The door creaked, she thought it was strong wind—AHHHHH...the python got inside!" Entertainment figures commenting on the video expressed shock, describing the snake as crocodile-sized and noting it seemed reluctant to leave the house. Many commenters jokingly begged for his house address, flooding the post with requests like "Almost a crocodile!", "So huge!", "Give us the house number!", "What's your address, sir?", and "You're definitely winning the lottery!"

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