National

Government Launches Mobile Vendor Program to Bring Affordable Goods to Communities Nationwide

The government launched a mobile vendor program bringing discounted essential goods to remote communities nationwide, operating for three months with 3,800 vendors and 946 postal points aiming to reduce living costs by 280 million baht.

12 May Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the opening of the 'Thai Help Thai - Reducing Cost of Living through Commerce Mobile Vendors' program on Tuesday, May 12, 2025, at Santitham Building, Government House, joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachai Suthammaphand. The government has prioritized supporting the cost of living for citizens, particularly those in remote communities with limited access to affordable goods. The Commerce Ministry's Department of Internal Trade will manage the program, coordinate with manufacturers, and set prices for essential items. The Interior Ministry will support vendor selection and coordination, while the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, through Thailand Post, will support distribution networks to ensure goods reach all communities efficiently.

The program will run for three months in alignment with government economic stimulus measures, including the 'Half Price Plus' scheme launching May 15 - June 14, 2025. Fourteen essential consumer products will be sold at special prices through 3,800 mobile vendors nationwide, 946 postal service points across provinces and districts, and 129 community shops. Prime Minister Anutin stated the program aims to reduce living expenses by at least 280 million baht and benefit over 4 million households, bringing affordable goods directly to communities while eliminating travel costs. Deputy Prime Minister Supachai Suthammaphand explained the Commerce Ministry will oversee overall management, coordinate producers, establish product lists and pricing standards, and monitor program effectiveness to ensure citizens receive genuine discounts on fourteen daily-use essential items that directly reduce household expenses.

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National

Srisuwan Refuses to Back Down, Storms Government House to Demand 17.6 Billion Baht in Thaksin Tax Collection, Urges PM to Accelerate Enforcement

Srisuwan Jraya demanded the Prime Minister accelerate tax collection from Thaksin Shinawatra following a Supreme Court ruling, citing a 17.6 billion baht obligation from the Shin Corporation share sale case that remains unenforced.

12 May Khaosod

On May 12, 2025, at the government's complaint center (1111) at the Office of the Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister, Srisuwan Jraya, leader of Ruam Palang Phuea Chart, submitted a letter to the Prime Minister citing the Supreme Court ruling in the Shin Corporation share sale case, noting that enforcement has been unreasonably delayed and requesting public disclosure of progress.

He requested the invocation of Section 11 of the Administrative Procedure Act of 1991 and its amendments to direct the Finance Minister and Director-General of the Revenue Department to expedite pursuit and collection of taxes from Thaksin Shinawatra regarding his sale of shares in Shin Corporation Public Company Limited.

The letter referenced Supreme Court Judgment No. 6890/2568 dated August 14, 2024, which dismissed Thaksin's petition to revoke the tax assessment, resulting in an obligation to pay taxes, penalties, and surcharges totaling over 17.6 billion baht to the Revenue Department.

Srisuwan stated that considerable time has passed but there is no clear evidence of tax collection efforts. He argued the Prime Minister should exercise supervisory authority over the executive branch and order relevant agencies to strictly implement the court judgment with all applicable interest and penalties, to bring revenue into the state without further delay.

He also called for the government to disclose progress to civil society organizations in accordance with constitutional and information access rights.

At 10:14 a.m., Srisuwan submitted the letter through Sompass Nilpan, an advisor to the Office of the Permanent Secretary to the Prime Minister, before concluding at 11:00 a.m. and immediately departing.

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National

Deputy PM Ekniti Insists Emergency Loan Decree is Necessary to Keep Small Businesses Afloat and Prevent Job Losses

Thailand's deputy PM defends a 400 billion baht emergency loan decree as essential to prevent small business collapse and job losses amid a cost-of-living crisis, despite constitutional court challenges from the opposition.

12 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpong has defended the government's decision to proceed with a 400 billion baht emergency loan decree, insisting it is both economically essential and urgently needed. The opposition has challenged the decree at the Constitutional Court, arguing it does not constitute an emergency matter. However, Ekniti maintains that the decree addresses critical economic security concerns, particularly the current cost-of-living crisis affecting citizens' welfare.

Ekniti emphasized that the current crisis differs markedly from the 1997 financial crisis, which was centered on currency devaluation and banking collapse. Today's crisis focuses on living costs, energy prices, and food security—challenges facing many countries worldwide. "The government remains convinced this is urgent and was carefully considered by cabinet," Ekniti stated. "Without immediate action, the crisis will strike in multiple waves."

The deputy PM outlined a cascade of interconnected crises: beginning with the war, followed by energy and oil price spikes, then production cost inflation, and ultimately a cost-of-living crisis. He warned that if living costs continue rising while people's incomes shrink and small businesses cannot sustain themselves, unemployment will inevitably follow, with micro-enterprises suffering first. These constitute economic security issues requiring the government to act through the emergency loan decree.

When asked if the government would proceed without waiting for the Constitutional Court's ruling, Ekniti confirmed that the decree has already been published in the Royal Gazette and became effective one day after publication, so the government will continue implementation.

Regarding suggestions that the second 200 billion baht tranche could be funded through regular budget channels, Ekniti rejected separating the two tranches, as both serve the same 400 billion baht objective. The government aims simultaneously to provide relief and help citizens adapt post-crisis, ensuring people and businesses emerge stronger once the crisis passes—a comprehensive solution addressing multiple problems while reducing impact and building long-term resilience.

Ekniti also noted that many countries view Thailand as facing greater energy crisis risk than most nations due to high energy import dependence. The transition requires reducing impact on citizens; with continued high oil reliance and the global conflict's uncertain duration, Thailand risks repeated energy price shocks, with ordinary citizens ultimately bearing the burden.

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National

Entertainment Scoop – 'Ice-Yam' Team Flips Luxury Action in Heated Drama 'Hidden Beast'

Channel 3's new revenge thriller "Hidden Beast" stars Ice Panuwatch as a designer-turned-vigilante seeking to avenge his yakuza father's murder, opposite Yam Matira as a skilled bodyguard with her own deadly mission. The action-packed serie

12 May Khaosod

Channel 3 brings viewers an intense revenge thriller in the romantic action drama 'Hidden Beast,' packed with thrilling action sequences in Pao Ching Chong style. Produced by 'Toot' Nopphol Gomarjun and 'Priyanucha Panpradub' with screenplay by Kao Taem and teleplay by Phansri, the series is directed by Rachit Kusalkumsiri. Leading man 'Ice' Panuwatch Premmoninnunt takes on the role of Taiga, a young designer and son of a yakuza boss who must wield a gun to settle scores. He's paired with leading lady 'Yam' Matira Tantiprasoet, who plays Rin, a skilled bodyguard and daughter of a police commissioner. The supporting cast includes Boot Thara, Gap Chanoksuda, Paint Kritkarn, Seen Patsthragorn, Gig Wattikorn, Leeta Kaliya, Chai Chatchodm, and many others.

'Hidden Beast' tells the story of Taiga, a young Japanese designer whose yakuza father was murdered by a secret organization called 'Phoenix.' In pursuit of the boss 'Demon' responsible for his father's death, Taiga infiltrates the Three Seas Group undercover. However, his plans are complicated by Rin, a formidable bodyguard. Their clash becomes a high-stakes game where every move is fraught with danger. Who is truly an ally? Who is a hidden enemy? What truths must be paid for with life and love? How will this revenge game conclude? Find out together!

Lead actor Ice Panuwatch shared insights into his character: 'Ice plays Taiga, a Japanese designer who is quiet and composed. Being a yakuza's son gives him an artistic side—appearing serene yet fighting for survival with secrets harbored within. This role is quite challenging because I must remain still yet look godlike, captivating to viewers. I'm showcasing the designer aspect through the detailed clothing worn throughout the series. This drama has everything—everyone hides something, each character has dynamic development and clear stories. It promises to be thrilling and intense.'

Leading actress Yam Matira discussed her character: 'Yam plays Rin, an ordinary bright girl whose life changes after her father's murder. Following such a tragedy, she transforms completely, training hard to avenge her father's death. In this series, Yam does lots of action—all kinds of fight scenes. I practice taekwondo daily, kicking heavy sandbags that are so hard my hands hurt; I almost cried. I'm promoting this drama too—it's quite unconventional and fresh for Pao Ching Chong. You'll see everyone in new character types that feel very real. It promises to be fun, explosive action, and plenty of romance scenes.'

Catch the excitement and thrilling action of 'Hidden Beast' Monday through Friday at 7:00 PM on Channel 3, TV Gad 33, or stream online at 3Plus. The series premiere begins Friday, May 15th.

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Tourism

Little Friends – Khon Kaen Zoo Invites Public to Name Newborn Pygmy Hippo, Granddaughter of Mu Deng

A female pygmy hippo born at Khon Kaen Zoo in April is the granddaughter of celebrity hippo Mu Deng, and the zoo is inviting the public to vote on naming the healthy month-old calf.

12 May Khaosod

Mu Deng, the celebrated pygmy hippopotamus from Khao Khiao Open Zoo in Chonburi, has now become a grandmother with the birth of a female calf at Khon Kaen Zoo.

Khon Kaen Zoo announced updates on the newborn female pygmy hippo, born on April 5, 2025, to parents Nadech from Khao Khiao Open Zoo and Yaya from Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. The calf is Mu Deng's granddaughter and younger sister to Mu Duan, a celebrity pygmy hippo beloved by Khon Kaen residents who is currently drawing significant tourist attention.

Tipavadee Kittakun, director of Khon Kaen Zoo, reported that the calf received a routine health checkup at one month of age with excellent results. The hippo has normal lung function, age-appropriate development, and is receiving close care from veterinary specialists. Physical examination revealed normal tooth and tusk development, with two upper teeth and four lower teeth. A microchip has been implanted for systematic health monitoring. Current weight has increased to 16.45 kilograms from birth weight of 5.76 kilograms, with body length at 72 centimeters, head length 15.5 centimeters, tail length 7.5 centimeters, and measurements showing healthy, robust growth.

"The pygmy hippo calf does not yet have an official name," said Tipavadee. "Khon Kaen Zoo is preparing a public voting campaign to select a name, fostering community engagement and connection with wildlife. We invite the public and tourists to visit and see the adorable new calf alongside its hippo family, and to participate in the naming vote through the zoo's official channels."

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National

Brilliant Young Minds – Next Generation Creating Media to Combat Vaccine Misinformation

Students and young people nationwide won awards for creating short videos combating vaccine misinformation in Thailand's "Shot of Truth" project, which attracted 330 entrants demonstrating youth potential in promoting health literacy and on

12 May Khaosod

The Vaccine Foundation for the People, partnering with the National Vaccine Institute and organizations including the Digital Economy Promotion Office (DEPA), Sure Before Share Center, Thai News Agency, ASMT, Muang Thai Life Insurance, Pfizer Thailand, AstraZeneca Thailand, and MorDee intelligent health platform under True Digital Group, held an awards ceremony for the 'Shot of Truth' creative media project honoring students and young people who produced short video clips with accurate information about vaccines and vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases. The initiative aims to build misinformation immunity and promote creative online media use in Thai society.

The project attracted nationwide participation with 330 entrants from 69 teams. Winning works stood out for creativity, academic accuracy, and accessible communication, demonstrating young people's potential as a powerful force promoting health literacy and misinformation resistance. Top prize winners were the NERVE team from International School Bangkok (ISB) and Mahidol University International Demonstration School (MUIDS).

First runner-up was the 'Vaccinated Already' team from Pathumkongka School in Samut Prakan, and second runner-up was 'Better Than Older Siblings, Only Having Monks' from Darassamut School in Si Racha, Chonburi, and Prajinrat Bamrung School in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The Popular Vote Award for vaccine education clips went to 'Know Vax Now!' from Sanam Luang Witthayalai School in Chonburi, while NERVE also won the Popular Vote for misinformation literacy clips.

NERVE team representatives Nathakorn Mahavirrakun and Patchanon Wongwara stated: 'We aimed to make vaccine information more understandable and relatable in an era where fact and falsehood mix together. This project taught us information verification and using AI to gather data before communicating through video clips. It shows that young people can create positive societal impact and we're committed to further develop this work for continued knowledge sharing.'

Winning works will be distributed through online channels to raise vaccine awareness, reduce misinformation spread, and reinforce the collaborative role of government, private sector, and young people in building an informed society with sustainable wellness.

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Breaking

Major Bank Admits Error After Homeowner's Complaint Over Wrongful Foreclosure Lawsuit Despite Zero Debt

Kasikornbank admitted it wrongfully sued a homeowner for foreclosure despite zero debt, citing inadequate legal review, and has withdrawn the asset seizure and will issue documentation clearing the property.

12 May Khaosod

Following the news story, the homeowner met with Mongkolvit Runnunvorakul, manager of Kasikornbank's Savings Bank Chachoengsao branch, and Phetthai Suanjanchan, director of the debt management and control zone 11, who came in person to clarify the situation. The bank admitted the error stemmed from inadequate procedural review by their legal team, which failed to verify complete information despite the homeowner having already closed his account and received his property deed back. The bank has taken swift action and submitted a document withdrawing the asset seizure to the provincial enforcement office, while confirming that no foreclosure sale of the homeowner's property took place. Additionally, the bank will issue documentation certifying that there has been no seizure or foreclosure sale of the property to provide assurance to the affected homeowner and address any ongoing impacts.

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National

Strong Backing for Arne Slot: Liverpool Continues Support for Manager with Summer Transfer Budget

Despite a disappointing season and a petition with over one million signatures calling for his removal, Liverpool's board backs manager Arne Slot and plans to provide summer transfer funds, particularly targeting wingers to strengthen the s

12 May Khaosod

Liverpool continues to support manager Arne Slot with the board prepared to provide additional transfer funds for new players in this summer's transfer window.

Slot's Liverpool has delivered a disappointing season, failing to win any major titles and facing a battle to secure Champions League qualification for next season. This poor form has sparked a campaign calling for the 47-year-old manager's removal, which has already accumulated over one million signatures.

Previously, Liverpool was linked with Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid manager and former Liverpool player, as a potential replacement should Slot be dismissed. However, renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano recently revealed that Liverpool continues to support Arne Slot with no contact made with Alonso. "As I mentioned two days ago, Xabi Alonso and Liverpool have not held talks. Liverpool supports Arne Slot. Should anything change at the end of the season, I will inform you. For now, Alonso has not spoken with Liverpool and they continue to back Arne Slot. Chelsea has not yet made their decision on who they want," Romano stated.

Meanwhile, David Ornstein from The Athletic reported that Liverpool plans to strengthen the squad this summer to provide players Slot needs. "Liverpool wants to reinforce for Arne Slot during this summer window, particularly in the winger position. I expect one or two signings to arrive. They believe this position is crucial, and once they've strengthened, you'll be able to assess Arne Slot's performance much more fairly. Liverpool will be looking to increase their activity in the transfer market," Ornstein said.

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National

Health Minister Assures Thailand on Hantavirus Monitoring as Tourist Screening Continues

Thailand's health minister says hantavirus has not been detected in the country, with only one Singapore tourist under quarantine in Southeast Asia as authorities screen incoming visitors at all borders.

12 May Khaosod

At a press conference at Government House on May 12, 2025, Health Minister Pattana Prom-pattana stated that hantavirus has not been found in Thailand. In Southeast Asia, only one Singaporean tourist aboard a cruise ship is under quarantine, urging the public not to panic. The minister emphasized that the Public Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation along with disease control officials, particularly screening tourists entering Thailand by land, sea, and air. He noted that hantavirus is not a new disease and may have multiple strains, with the identified variant capable of person-to-person transmission, though the spread is not rapid and can be controlled with proper precautions.

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Anutin Inspires New Generation of Engineers to Overcome Limitations and Drive National Innovation

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged engineering students at Mahidol University to overcome barriers and drive innovation for Thailand's future during the 2026 Engineering Maker Expo on May 12. He emphasized that knowledge, deter

12 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul returned to Mahidol University to inspire the next generation of engineers to transcend all barriers and create innovations that will drive the nation forward at the Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 on May 12, 2026, at the Grand Ballroom of Mahidol Sithakarn Conference Center and Parking Building at Mahidol University's Salaya campus. Anutin participated in the Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 Capstone Project Presentation and delivered a keynote address titled "Beyond Boundaries: Unlimited Engineering," with Mahidol University Rector Prof. Dr. Piyamit Sritara presiding, alongside Engineering Faculty Dean Thanapat Vanichanan, Siam Commercial Bank Chairman Krissana Chantanotok, and Engineering Alumni Association President Thamronkiat Udomsang.

Anutin stated that today's concept of boundless engineering is inspirational, yet we must recognize that knowledge makes all things possible. However, knowledge alone does not guarantee success or happiness in life. We see countless examples of people without substantial financial resources who have achieved success and happiness. Regardless of where we are born or our starting point, we can determine our own life's destination through knowledge and determination. In today's rapidly evolving world, continuous learning and self-development are essential.

Anutin further emphasized the importance of understanding why we learn today, as fundamentals are the foundation for knowledge to grow steadily. When you discover your talents or abilities in any field, seek environments and opportunities that value those strengths and boldly pursue them. He reminded students that even a single individual can transform national crises into opportunities with determination, resolve, and perseverance. Do not let obstacles become limitations on your growth. Every student will be a crucial mechanism in driving Thailand forward sustainably and steadily.

The Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 "Capstone Project Presentation" is an exhibition showcasing comprehensive engineering projects by fourth-year Engineering Faculty students, who have utilized four years of academic knowledge to create innovations addressing real-world problems in society and industry. The event takes the form of an innovation marketplace, welcoming businesses and investors to view prototypes for business matching and commercial development opportunities. The expo also serves as a networking platform between students and leading companies seeking talented personnel recruitment, effectively transforming pre-graduation projects into concrete career and business opportunities.

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Police

Government Savings Bank Launches "GSB Love Savings" with Free Accident Insurance Coverage Up to 200,000 Baht

Government Savings Bank unveiled "GSB Love Savings," a dedicated account for children from birth to age 10 that includes free accident insurance covering parents up to 200,000 baht and child medical expenses. The account requires deposits a

12 May Khaosod

The Government Savings Bank has launched "GSB Love Savings," a specialized savings account designed for parents to open for their children from birth until age 10. The account includes accident insurance benefits provided by Thai Insurance Public Company Limited for 12 months from account opening, covering both the parent account holder and the child. Parents receive life insurance coverage of up to 200,000 baht in cases of death, limb loss, or permanent disability—calculated as twice the remaining balance on the day before the accident. Children receive medical treatment coverage of up to 1,000 baht per incident when the account balance ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 baht, with no limit on the number of claims. The account offers a competitive interest rate of 0.25% annually with no tax burden, and deposits can start from as little as 1 baht with no maximum limit. Bank Director Songpon Cheevarojanpong stated that GSB is committed to providing financial products and services for all age groups under its "Smart Social Bank for All Lives" initiative. For more information, customers can contact the GSB Contact Center at 1115 or visit www.gsb.or.th.

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