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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Free Expressway Tolls on Visakha Bucha Day: 3 Routes Waived

Thailand's Expressway Authority will waive tolls on three major expressway routes all day Wednesday, May 13, for Visakha Bucha Day to ease holiday travel and reduce congestion at 63 toll booths nationwide.

11 May Khaosod

The Expressway Authority of Thailand (EXAT) under the Ministry of Transport will waive expressway tolls on three routes as follows:

Chalerm Maha Nakhon Expressway (Din Daeng-Bang Na-Daw Khano) - 21 toll booths Sri Rat Expressway (Sai Yut-Bang Khlo-Srinakarin) - 32 toll booths Udon Expressway (Bang Pa-in-Pak Kret) - 10 toll booths

The waiver applies on Wednesday, May 13, 2025 (Visakha Bucha Day) from 00:01 to 24:00 hours, a national public holiday declared by the Prime Minister's Office.

This measure follows government and Ministry of Transport policy outlined in amended concession agreements between EXAT, Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM), and Bangkok Northern Expressway Company Limited (NECL). The waiver aims to facilitate public travel during the holiday, reduce financial burden on citizens, and minimize traffic congestion at toll booths.

EXAT requests public cooperation in safe driving under the concept "Safe Driving - No U-turns for Safety." For travel information, contact the Expressway User Information Service Center (EXAT Call Center) at 1543, available 24 hours.

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National

Thaksin Reports to Bangkok Probation Office, Quips to Media About Having Alzheimer's

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra completed his probation reporting at Bangkok Probation Office 1 on May 11, joking with journalists that he had developed Alzheimer's and couldn't remember them. Accompanied by his sister Yingluck and his lawyer, Thaksin spent about 10 minutes completing paperwork before departing for his residence. His probation conditions require monthly reporting, residency restrictions, employment disclosure, and abstinence from illegal drugs and weapons.

11 May Khaosod

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra reported to Bangkok Probation Office 1 on May 11, 2025, and made a lighthearted jab at waiting media, saying "I can't remember anything anymore—I've got Alzheimer's," when asked if he recalled them from his initial prison entry. Accompanied by his sister Yingluck, also a former Prime Minister, and his attorney Viññyati Chatimonthon, Thaksin completed his probation check-in procedures on the second floor in approximately 10 minutes. After finishing the paperwork, he descended to greet the assembled journalists with a smile and wave before departing with Yingluck to their Changsonghlueang residence.

Under the terms of his probation suspension, Thaksin's conditions include residing at his designated address with his caretaker, maintaining honest employment, reporting to probation officers monthly, adhering to all laws and regulations, abstaining from drugs and weapons, avoiding contact with prisoners or detainees (except relatives), refraining from associating with individuals who might lead him to further wrongdoing, and remaining within provincial boundaries except when authorized for urgent matters.

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National

Government Advances Infrastructure Upgrades to Attract Digital and Clean Energy Investments for Future Industries

Thailand's government approved 15 major investment projects worth over 1 trillion baht and is upgrading energy infrastructure to attract digital and clean energy industries, streamlining approvals to accelerate economic growth.

11 May Khaosod

Government Advances Infrastructure Upgrades to Attract Digital and Clean Energy Investments for Future Industries

May 11, 2026 – Rachada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, announced that the government is advancing infrastructure upgrades and promoting investment to support the economy and future industries.

The Board of Investment (BOI) has approved 6 major investment projects worth a combined 958,168 million baht. Simultaneously, 9 additional projects have been selected for the Thailand FastPass accelerated investment program phase 2, valued at 52,104 million baht combined.

This brings the total number of projects in the system to 25, worth over 223,216 million baht. These measures aim to reduce approval steps and enable faster investment implementation.

Rachada stated that beyond short-term investment facilitation measures, the government is also accelerating energy infrastructure upgrades to support high-electricity-consuming industries and long-term power demand. The energy ministry is preparing electricity guarantee measures for major power consumers.

Meanwhile, the provincial and metropolitan electricity authorities are developing standards for electricity guarantees to align power network investment plans with business electricity usage plans. The Energy Ministry is pushing forward the Power Development Plan (PDP) to support high-electricity-consuming industries by studying the recommissioning of decommissioned power plants and promoting modern energy technologies in the electrical system. The government is also advancing clean energy support mechanisms, including the Direct PPA program, which has completed rate calculations and awaits consideration by the Energy Regulatory Commission. The green electricity rate (UGT2) has been announced by the provincial and metropolitan electricity authorities as of April 30, 2026. Additionally, the government is reviewing regulations regarding rooftop solar systems to increase flexibility and support investor needs in transitioning to environmentally friendly business operations.

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National

Gold Prices Today, May 11, 2025: Official Announcement Shows Decline – Act Now

The Gold Traders Association announced that gold prices have declined by 50 baht per baht weight on May 11, 2025, with ornamental gold selling at 72,700 baht. Gold bars are trading at 71,700 baht for purchase and 71,900 baht for sale, while global spot prices stand at 4,691.50 USD per ounce.

11 May Khaosod

Gold prices for May 11, 2025 have been announced by the Gold Traders Association, with prices declining compared to the previous close. Ornamental gold is selling at 72,700 baht per baht weight, down 50 baht from the final price on May 8. According to the latest data from the Gold Traders Association released on their website at 9:02 AM, gold bars are trading at 71,700 baht per baht weight for purchase and 71,900 baht per baht weight for sale in the first announcement. For 96.5% ornamental gold, the purchase price is 70,266.60 baht per baht weight and the selling price is 72,700 baht per baht weight. Global gold spot prices are currently at 4,691.50 USD per ounce. Gold bar prices: Buy at 71,700 baht per baht weight, Sell at 71,900 baht per baht weight. Ornamental gold prices: Buy at 70,266.60 baht per baht weight, Sell at 72,700 baht per baht weight. Gold traders predict that tomorrow's market opening could see prices surge by 1,000-2,000 baht per baht weight, potentially breaking through the 80,000 baht level.

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Community

Popular Street Vendor Fuerst Apologizes, Insists No Ill Intent—Fed Rejected Sausages to Fish, Thought It Was Appropriate Food

Popular content creator Fuerst Nittakarn apologized for feeding returned sausages to fish, insisting she thought the oil-free meat was appropriate food and meant no harm.

11 May Khaosod

Popular content creator Fuerst Nittakarn has apologized after feeding returned sausages to fish, claiming she meant no harm and simply thought it was appropriate fish food. She explained in an emotional video that she regularly feeds fish with pellets and bread, and since the fish eat everything completely without leaving oil residue, she thought the oil-free baked sausages would be suitable as well. Fuerst stated that when customers returned the sausages, she didn't want to serve them to people anymore, so she decided to give them to the fish instead. She emphasized that the sausages contained no oil and were fully consumed by the fish without leaving anything that could contaminate the water. The post has received supportive comments from entertainment figures, celebrities, and fans encouraging her to stay strong, with many praising her kind heart.

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Breaking

Chaos at Prominent Ayutthaya Hospital as Fire Breaks Out in Lab, Patients and Visitors Evacuated

A fire broke out in the medical technology lab at Somdet Phra Sangkharat Hospital in Ayutthaya early May 11, forcing evacuation of about 20 patients. Firefighters controlled the blaze within 30 minutes, with preliminary investigation sugges

11 May Khaosod

A fire broke out in the medical technology laboratory on the second floor of the Vasana Karun Building at Somdet Phra Sangkharat Hospital in Bo Phong Subdistrict, Nakhon Luang District, Ayutthaya Province at approximately 2:00 AM on May 11, 2025. Lieutenant Colonel Charoenchai Phosarasat, the investigation officer from Nakhon Luang Police Station, responded along with firefighting units from local government organizations and emergency personnel from the Putai Sawanyai Foundation.

Thick smoke billowed from the building as firefighters immediately sprayed water to prevent the fire from spreading to other hospital buildings. The situation was brought under control after about 30 minutes of firefighting efforts. Staff, nurses, and rescue volunteers urgently evacuated approximately 20 patients on wheelchairs from the building to outdoor areas. Five critical patients were transferred by ambulance for temporary care while smoke was being ventilated and the situation controlled amid the chaos.

Initial investigation revealed the fire originated from a computer desk within the medical technology laboratory, which was completely destroyed along with ceiling and wall damage. Neing, 54, a patient's relative, reported hearing a fire alarm around 1:30 AM and initially thought it was a routine alert before nurses rushed in ordering an immediate evacuation due to the fire. She was deeply frightened by the massive smoke covering the entire building.

Fo Phong Subdistrict firefighters disclosed that upon receiving the alert, they immediately brought equipment to the site, discovering the fire on the second floor. They deployed water nozzles and had to open windows for ventilation while using smoke extraction equipment to control the situation. The computer desk was completely destroyed by the fire.

Investigation officers documented the incident scene as evidence and are examining the laboratory. The preliminary cause is suspected to be an electrical short circuit from a plugged-in computer combined with hot weather conditions, though forensic examination is still pending to confirm the actual cause. After the fire was extinguished, non-critical patients were transferred to other hospital buildings, while critical patients remained in rescue vehicles for safety. The incident resulted in no injuries or fatalities.

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National

Thaksin Smiles, Embraces Paetongtarn and Family Before Paying Respects to National Flag

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra was released from Klong Prem Central Prison on May 11, 2025, after receiving conditional release approval. He was warmly welcomed by family members, Pheu Thai party leaders, and red-shirt supporters who had gathered at the prison entrance. After embracing his daughter Paetongtarn and other family members, Thaksin paid respects to the national flag before departing to report to the Bangkok Metropolitan Probation Office as required.

11 May Khaosod

At 5:00 AM on May 11, 2025, outside Klong Prem Central Prison, reporters documented enthusiastic red-shirt supporters who had traveled to cheer former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra on his scheduled conditional release day. Large crowds of red-shirt supporters lined the prison fence starting from the morning of May 10 to show their support. At 6:00 AM, Pheu Thai party leaders including Bhumi Vetayachai (party advisor), Somsak Thepsuthin (former Public Health Minister), Wisutthi Chaiyarun, Kattiya Sawasdipon, Chusakdi Sirinil, Jiraphon Sindupai, Chayapa Sindupai, Manporn Charoen, Saruang Thiantong (party deputy leader), Pongkwin Chungrungrueangkit (party deputy leader), Pongsak Raktpongpaisarn (former Transport Minister), Phaophoomi Rojnaskul, Chanok Chantathong, Natthawut Saiyaem, Khuanchai Pairapan (former red-shirt leader), and lawyer Vinyat Chatimontre arrived at the prison to welcome Thaksin after he met bail requirements for conditional release in a general case. At 7:20 AM, party leaders began gathering at the prison entrance. At 7:30 AM, Thaksin's family including Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Panthongthaem Shinawatra, Pintongtha Shinawatra, and other family members arrived. At 7:40 AM, Thaksin walked out of prison wearing a white shirt and long pants, embracing his daughter, grandchildren, and sister, with Paetongtarn being the first to receive his embrace. He then greeted party leaders and supporters, paid respects to the national flag at the flagpole on the prison grounds, and waved to the red-shirt crowd before departing for Bangkok Metropolitan Probation Office 1 in Bang Kok Noi to report as required by the Department of Corrections before heading home.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Rice Exports Recover in Q1 with 2.87% Growth, But Price Declines Drag Revenue Down to 32 Billion Baht

Thailand's rice exports volume grew 2.87% in the first quarter of 2025 to 1.79 million tons, but declining prices across all rice varieties caused export revenue to fall 4.65% to 32.4 billion baht. White rice remained the dominant export product at 47% of volume, with Africa accounting for 43% of total Thai rice exports.

11 May Khaosod

Thailand's Department of Foreign Trade revealed that Thai rice exports in the first quarter of 2025 reached approximately 1.79 million tons, representing a 2.87% increase from 1.74 million tons in the same period of the previous year. However, export value declined to 1.046 billion USD (approximately 32.4 billion baht), down 4.65% from 1.097 billion USD (approximately 37.1 billion baht) year-over-year. The Thai baht strengthened by 6.92% against the US dollar, averaging 31.61 baht per dollar during the period.

All rice varieties experienced price declines in March 2025. Jasmine rice fell 2.19% to $1,026 per ton, Thai fragrant rice dropped 6.52% to $645 per ton, sticky rice decreased 4.66% to $818 per ton, parboiled rice fell 6.05% to $404 per ton, and white rice declined 6.86% to $380 per ton.

White rice remained Thailand's largest export segment at 47.16% of volume, with primary markets including Iraq, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Mozambique. Jasmine rice accounted for 25.33% destined mainly to the United States, Senegal, Hong Kong, and Canada. Parboiled rice represented 18.34% going to South Africa, Yemen, and Congo. Thai fragrant rice comprised 6.11% to the US, Senegal, and Cameroon, while sticky rice made up 2.62% to China, Japan, the US, and Belgium. Brown rice represented 0.44% to South Korea, the US, and Canada.

Africa emerged as Thailand's primary rice export market, accounting for 43.48% of total volumes, followed by Asia at 23.48%, the Middle East at 13.91%, the Americas at 12.17%, Europe at 5.22%, and Oceania at 1.74%.

The first-quarter volume increase of 2.87% was driven by strong domestic rice supply from the dry-season harvest in March-April, combined with a weaker Thai baht that improved export competitiveness. Major importers like Malaysia and the Philippines are expected to increase purchases to meet domestic consumption and build food security reserves amid geopolitical uncertainties involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. These countries' proximity to Thailand shields them from shipping route disruptions in conflict zones, and their preference for white rice may partially substitute Thai white rice exports to Iraq.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Fortune Teller Mor Plai Reveals Lucky Zodiac Signs: Money Flows Miraculously, Perfect Timing Comes Easily

Fortune teller Mor Plai has released zodiac predictions for the second half of the year, identifying Aquarius, Virgo, and Gemini as the most fortunate signs with opportunities coming easily. Taurus, Cancer, and Virgo are expected to experience miraculous wealth flow and are advised to engage in prayer and spiritual practices. Several signs including Sagittarius, Leo, and Dragon are cautioned to watch out for health issues, accidents, and potential deception.

11 May Khaosod

Fortune teller Mor Plai Prai Krasib has released zodiac predictions for the second half of the year. The three most fortunate signs are Aquarius, Virgo, and Gemini—no matter what work or travel they undertake, everything will go smoothly because opportunities come easily without the struggle of previous times. For those blessed with miraculous wealth flow, Taurus, Cancer, and Virgo should chant prayers and pour water frequently for blessings. Signs requiring caution include Sagittarius, which should watch out for health issues and easily catching infections or accidents involving bone injuries; Leo, which may face problems with bodily fluids including blood and inner ear imbalances causing dizziness; and Dragon, which should be warned against being deceived.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Baan Chan Sod Sohng Luang Awaits Thaksin's Arrival Following Sentence Suspension and Release; Grandchildren Wait to Meet Him at Home

Former PM Thaksin Shinawatra was released on sentence suspension today after serving 243 days in prison, with family awaiting his arrival at his Bangkok residence.

11 May Khaosod

Baan Chan Sod Sohng Luang Awaits Thaksin Following Sentence Suspension and Release; Grandchildren to Meet Him at Home. Media Personnel Stationed; Police Ensure Order.

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra received a sentence suspension today (May 11, 2025) after serving 243 days in prison under probation conditions.

The morning of May 11, 2025, at Baan Chan Sod Sohng Luang on Charoen Sanit Wong 71 Soi remained quiet, with police managing security and preparing designated areas for media personnel using metal barriers along the roadside.

Meanwhile, a Mercedes-Benz, Thaksin's personal vehicle that was previously used officially in 2024, was seen departing from Baan Chan Sod Sohng Luang.

Reports indicate that Khunying Pojaman Damapong, his former wife, along with grandchildren, will be waiting at home to welcome Thaksin, while some family members plan to receive him directly from the prison.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Community

Lucky Numbers Buzz at Wat Chainawat Cremation Ceremony in Suphan Buri—Lottery Frenzy Over 'Lucky Digits'

Lottery enthusiasts descended on Wat Chainawat temple in Suphan Buri for the inauguration of a new eco-friendly crematorium on May 10, which doubled as a lucky number-hunting opportunity. A test cremation for a 109-year-old man sparked interest in numbers 492, 83, and 109, leading crowds to buy out lottery vendors inside the temple for the May 16 draw. The ceremony, funded with 2 million baht, combined traditional Buddhist practices with the popular Thai custom of seeking lucky numbers from auspicious occasions.

11 May Khaosod

On May 10, Udom Prongfah, chairman of the Suphan Buri Provincial Administration Organization, led an incense and candle lighting ceremony at Wat Chainawat in Mueang District to inaugurate a new pollution-free crematorium, funded with 2 million baht from the provincial administration. The temple held a test cremation for a 109-year-old man named Kluay, with participants writing wishes for the removal of suffering, sorrow, sickness, and hardship on papers placed in the coffin. After the ceremony, Udom and community members paid respects to a statue of the late Luang Pho Thom, the temple's former abbot. Attendees then sought out lucky numbers: 109 (the deceased's age) and 492 and 83 (derived from the coffin lid), creating such a frenzy that lottery vendors sold out their inventory within the temple grounds as everyone rushed to buy tickets for the May 16 lottery draw.

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