On May 13, 2025, Ratchada Thanadirek, government spokesperson, addressed misconceptions about reports claiming the government would allow foreigners to conduct business without permits. She emphasized that the draft regulations under the Foreign Business Operations Act B.E. 2485 do not represent a blanket opening of business to foreigners without oversight, but rather a refinement of certain business sectors—primarily high-technology businesses or those with specific regulatory frameworks—while maintaining strict state supervision. The amendment aims to streamline redundant authorization processes, facilitate business operations, and update regulations to align with modern economic contexts, while ensuring all exempt businesses strictly comply with their respective sector laws. Examples of continuing strict oversight include telecommunications under the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission, financial management centers under Bank of Thailand guidelines, securities and futures trading under the Securities and Exchange Commission, and petroleum drilling under energy sector regulations. Ratchada noted that the government prioritizes protecting Thai entrepreneurs, evidenced by the removal of software development from the draft regulation following concerns from relevant agencies about impacts on Thailand's digital industry. The regulatory improvements aim to achieve five strategic objectives: reducing unnecessary authorization steps, increasing fair and transparent competition, attracting advanced technology and expertise to Thailand, supporting Thailand's development as a regional service and business hub, and creating overall economic, investment, and employment benefits. The government reaffirms that all economic measures must protect national interests, Thai entrepreneurs, and economic security through improved regulatory efficiency, not deregulation as misunderstood.

Joe Darragh, a Thai-American professional baseball player for Thailand's national team who has also gained prominence in Hollywood, was invited by the Chicago White Sox to throw the opening pitch at their home game against the Kansas City Royals at Guaranteed Rate Field. The White Sox defeated the Kansas City Royals 6-5, with Darragh performing the ceremonial first pitch—a tradition where the team invites celebrities and notable figures from various fields.

Darragh played a crucial role in helping Thailand's national baseball team win a silver medal at the 33rd Southeast Asian Games. In addition to his athletic career, he has appeared in Hollywood productions, notably in a detective series adapted from the New York Times bestseller "Long Bright River," which streams on NBC's Peacock platform. In the series, Darragh plays Detective Danjarat in the Philadelphia Police Department, investigating a missing woman case alongside acclaimed actress Amanda Seyfried, who is known for her roles in Mean Girls, Jennifer's Body, Mank, In Time, and Les Misérables.

Ananda Everingham is absolutely smitten with his young son Phukhin, who is in an adorable stage of development. Both grandparents are competing to help raise him, and just seeing his face instantly brightens life. Ananda speaks openly about experiencing 'the purest love' he's ever known. The devoted father recently appeared at a movie premiere on May 12 at Paragon Cineplex in Siam Paragon for '3 Good Guys,' where he gushed about his son Phukhin. He revealed that raising the boy is easy—he's good-natured and has captured everyone's hearts in the household. Ananda emphasizes that just seeing his son's face makes tiredness disappear and his life brighter instantly, calling this 'the purest love' he's ever experienced.

When asked if he's getting enough sleep as a new father, Ananda responded enthusiastically: 'Honestly, raising him isn't difficult at all. I can't speak for others' experiences, but we're very happy. Phukhin is wonderful with us. I'm grateful. Just stay this cute. He's easy to raise and in an adorable phase. After two months, he's starting to see us—recognizing dad and mom, playing with us. He's quite good-natured. The grandparents are completely smitten and competing to care for him. Our life is easy. If we want to be with him, we just go ahead and do it.'

Regarding clothing, he quipped: 'My wife handles that. Clothes are never enough—there's always a reason they're necessary. Lately, we've been hearing about creating content, but it's not like we're doing it just for that. We use the photos ourselves. Last week we even dressed him in full Chinese New Year attire.'

When asked if his son has fulfilled him, Ananda said: 'Definitely. Everyone says the same thing—that life changes when you have a child. I don't say anything different from anyone else. Just seeing his face makes our life bright instantly.' His eyes sparkle noticeably when talking about his son.

On childcare duties, Ananda explained: 'We don't really call each other because so many family members help out. Whoever wakes up early can pick him up. Mostly I get the evening shift when relatives aren't available in the morning—after 9 a.m. so everyone can eat and bathe. We pick him up again after noon, or if Phukhin wakes at noon, I take the evening shift depending on the day. I'm the one who takes over when others need to do something.'

When asked how attached he is to his son, Ananda laughed: 'Well, for this event, I scheduled it so I could still come. It's not like I'd rush home to see him. Today I realized this is my evening shift, so I can help out. Or maybe I'll get back and see some content first. Will dad dress up nicely? Mom might force us to take photos, but if he's asleep, it's easier.'

On how many hours daily he plans to spend with his son, Ananda replied: 'It varies. Recently we went on a trip—it was his first plane ride, and we were together the whole time. But when we got back, the grandmother missed him so much she came to pick him up.'

Regarding his son's development, Ananda noted: 'It's progressing quite well—his strength, responsiveness. I'm not sure if people are just making me happy, but the doctor said he's developing quickly.'

On what personality traits are emerging, Ananda shared: 'He communicates well. He's got his signature move now—he likes to purse his lips, and it's adorable. Whether he's hungry or needs something, instead of crying, he just comes for milk. Camera-ready and cute—he has his own expressions. We're having so much fun. My wife often says she wishes he'd stay this way forever. She says once he grows up and isn't like this anymore, she wants to savor these moments as much as possible, so we need to spend lots of time with him. As much as possible. If you have a child, you'll understand—life really does change. I can say without hesitation that this is the purest love. It's the clearest goal I've ever had.'

Thailand bids farewell to Phlai Thongbai, the nation's most beautiful bull elephant, whose legendary 53-year life has come to an end. With tusks stretching 2.1 meters—nearly dragging along the ground—Thongbai was not merely an elephant but a source of pride for Surin province, the "Land of Elephants." Many Thai citizens remember him as the majestic tusked elephant featured in famous Chang beer commercials, making him a cultural icon across the nation. In a poignant coincidence, a memorial statue in Surin had its tusks mysteriously broken by heavy rains just days before his death, which locals interpreted as a spiritual sign that the "forest king" was preparing to rest. Online tributes poured in from grieving fans expressing hope that Thongbai can now roam freely in the afterlife, grateful for 53 years of bringing joy and wonder to the Thai people.

On May 13, the Department of Corrections issued a statement clarifying details about the emergency medical condition of Ming Chen Sun, a 31-year-old Chinese national held pending trial on weapons and explosives charges. He was hospitalized on May 11 after becoming critically ill while in Pattaya Special Prison.

Physicians at Pattaya Pattamakun Hospital documented that upon arrival on May 11, doctors conducted blood tests, chest X-rays, and brain CT scans to identify abnormalities. Preliminary medical assessment suggested the inmate had ingested excessive amounts of prescription medication. Doctors inserted a nasogastric tube to flush his gastrointestinal system and discovered blue-colored liquid. After administering antitoxin medication, his condition improved with observable movement and better responsiveness.

As of May 12, the inmate regained consciousness and could follow medical instructions, though he remains on mechanical ventilation that cannot yet be removed. Nutrition is being provided through a nasogastric tube.

Laboratory tests show negative results for all drugs in urine screening. Blood samples have been sent for detailed analysis to test for alcohol, benzodiazepines, pesticides, and other substances, with results expected this Friday or next week.

Doctors initially believe the inmate ingested excessive prescription medication before arriving at the prison. Since symptoms emerged within just two hours of intake and the facility maintains strict protocols prohibiting unauthorized medications—allowing only those approved by medical staff—it is suspected he consumed the overdose prior to incarceration.

The Department of Corrections has implemented maximum security measures, with Pattaya Special Prison deploying continuous surveillance and coordination with Bang Lamung Police and Provincial Police Region 2's Special Operations Unit for 24-hour perimeter security.

The Department of Corrections confirms that the inmate is being held and treated according to standard protocols and international humanitarian standards.

Gaeo Kalyaa Kamolthala has expressed her amazement at being recalled to the Thai national women's volleyball team. The athlete revealed the key factors that caught the coaching staff's attention once again, as the Thai women's volleyball team, under head coach Kiaratpong Ratchatagriyangkrai, prepares for the 2026 Nations League competition.

The player, known as "Tip," recently came out to discuss her feelings about the recall, admitting she was both surprised and shocked, never expecting another opportunity to return to the national team.

"I was very surprised and shocked. I didn't think I'd get another chance to come back to the national team camp," she said. "As soon as I heard the news, I told my family right away. I felt so happy, and it's an honor for both me and my family."

Gaeo credited her skill development and strong performance in the professional league this past season as the crucial factors that caught the coaching staff's eye again, after previously being dropped from the national team roster.

"After leaving the national team camp, I focused completely on the professional league, working hard to deliver my best performance," she explained. "This year's results have been quite good, so I think that's what made the coach take notice again."

Regarding the atmosphere of returning to the national team, Gaeo noted that while adjusting felt like being a new transfer mid-season, her familiarity with both older and younger teammates made the transition smooth and enjoyable.