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National

Government Spokesperson Denies Using State Budget to Purchase World Cup Broadcasting Rights, Clarifies Cabinet Only Acknowledged Decision Today

The Thai government spokesperson clarified today that no state budget will be used to purchase World Cup broadcasting rights, stating the Cabinet merely acknowledged the Public Relations Department's role in coordinating live broadcasts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The spokesperson denied rumors of a 1.3 billion baht budget approval and promised that funding sources and broadcasting arrangements will be explained once coordination is finalized.

12 May Khaosod

Government Spokesperson Denies Using State Budget to Purchase World Cup Broadcasting Rights, Clarifies Cabinet Only Acknowledged Decision Today. Awaiting Public Relations Department's explanation on both live broadcast arrangements and funding sources.

May 12, 2025 - Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek confirmed today that the Cabinet did not consider any budget allocation. The Cabinet resolution merely acknowledged that the Public Relations Department will coordinate arrangements for live broadcasting of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The department already has guidelines in place, though details were not disclosed.

Regarding the implementation approach, since live broadcasting involves coordination among multiple agencies, the Public Relations Department will be responsible for leading the effort.

Addressing public misunderstanding about an alleged 1.3 billion baht budget approval, the spokesperson emphasized that no central government budget will be used. Once coordination is finalized, the Public Relations Department will provide a full explanation.

Ratchada confirmed that government funds are not being used and reiterated that no state budget is being allocated. The source of funding will be explained by the Public Relations Department. She expressed that if arrangements allow Thais to watch the World Cup without impacting the state budget, everyone should be happy. Further details will be disclosed once the process is complete.

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Community

Lucky and Unlucky Days – Which Zodiac Signs May Experience Unexpected Windfalls? Which Signs Will Make New Foreign Friends?

This daily horoscope for May 13, 2025 provides luck predictions for all 12 zodiac signs, with Aries expected to receive unexpected windfalls and Leo to enjoy success with elder support. The readings cover various life aspects including work, relationships, travel, and finances, with warnings for Virgo about hidden friendship conflicts and advice for Capricorn to avoid distant travel.

12 May Khaosod

Lucky and Unlucky Days Wednesday, May 13, 2025 Horoscope by Hor Busaban

Aries: Today you may receive unexpected windfalls that come without your knowledge. Your studies and research will see complete success. You may travel in various ways and receive excellent assistance from people from other regions. Importantly, maintain humble manners always, otherwise people may easily become annoyed.

Taurus: Today you may feel discouraged about work despite rewards waiting for you. You're not enthusiastic about them. Using your authority to pressure those beneath you, while not ideal, is something you can do since you've given them advantages before. You'll have income from work and retail business transactions.

Gemini: You shouldn't invite too many people into your home beyond what you can manage properly, as you won't know who is trustworthy and may face uncontrollable conflicts. Even contractors or workers improving your home should be monitored carefully. However, enemies won't have the strength to harm you.

Cancer: Today you'll work with greater decisiveness. There are special tasks involving academic work, education, or document translation and contract preparation. You're drawn to making new friends or joining associations with new people. Expenses decrease, but expected profits fall far short of your hopes. Stock and lottery play result in losses.

Leo: Whatever you undertake today succeeds because you receive excellent help from elders. There are no conflicts with anyone over interests or authority. Those in relationships will introduce their partners to their family. Single people will have relatives introduce them to someone they'll like. Travel, whether near or far, will bring personal or material gain.

Virgo: Today you'll discover something hidden among your friend group meant to disturb your friendship. Be cautious about being too decisive at work as you may create cunning enemies. Your dependents may need to travel for further study or long journeys—support them whether by necessity or choice.

Libra: You'll receive good news from afar, but nearby news isn't so good. Some important belongings have gone missing and you won't find them again. New plans are emerging in your workplace. Mysteries remain mostly unclear at this stage. Someone unwise may entice you into injury or illness.

Scorpio: You shouldn't provoke or antagonize mentally unstable people. Work involving documents requires extreme care, as mistakes could cost you significant income. You may gain a new foreign friend of a different language whom you'll like very much. You may travel and encounter strange or mysterious situations.

Sagittarius: Whatever you do or express will likely face opposition or criticism. If someone speaks badly of you, don't hold a grudge or extend the conflict, as responding will cause greater loss to you. Work progresses smoothly with good income from multiple sources.

Capricorn: When you give things to others, they often don't truly appreciate your kindness. If someone invites you to travel far, you shouldn't go as you may face hardship or illness. Don't eat food offered by others as it may not suit your constitution at this time. An important dependent may be affected.

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Police

Police Chief Denies Protecting Wrongdoer in Case of Officer Accused of Assaulting Drug User, Says Officer Remains on Duty Pending Investigation

A municipal police officer in Nakhon Ratchasima is under investigation for allegedly assaulting, confining, and forcing drugs on his ex-girlfriend while distributing explicit images of her online. The police chief denied protecting the offi

12 May Khaosod

A 28-year-old nursing assistant from Nakhon Ratchasima province filed a complaint with the Paveena Hongsakul Foundation for Children and Women, alleging that a municipal police officer she had been dating for approximately five months confined, physically assaulted, and forced her to use methamphetamine, threatened her life, and distributed explicit images on social media, causing her humiliation and forcing her to resign from work. The victim filed a formal complaint at Muang Nakhon Ratchasima Police Station on May 4, 2569 (2026) around 8 p.m., reporting charges of assault and unlawful detention. Investigators conducted preliminary questioning but the victim needed time to recover before providing detailed statements. Police are currently gathering evidence and coordinating with relevant agencies.

Regarding reports that the accused officer had surrendered, Pol. Lt. Col. Sirichai Srichaipanya, superintendent of Muang Nakhon Ratchasima Police Station, clarified that the officer merely appeared for questioning and has not yet been formally charged, pending completion of victim interviews and evidence collection. Concerning the suspect's status as a civil servant, authorities have coordinated with his agency, which is investigating the facts. No suspension order has been issued yet as the internal investigation is ongoing, though the agency has issued internal directives.

Police are still gathering additional evidence regarding charges of assault, forced drug use, and distributing obscene images. Victim protection measures are in place for someone currently in a state of fear, with police ready to provide immediate protection if requested. Authorities have also coordinated with the suspect's agency to ensure he does not interfere with evidence or witnesses.

Pol. Lt. Col. Sirichai reaffirmed that police operations follow regulations and law, and anyone committing wrongdoing will receive no assistance or leniency. All charges will be pursued through the justice system to completion.

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National

Direct from the Palace – Royal Gracious Bestowal of Insignia and Fan to Venerable Phra Thepvichiryan Sundhorn

His Majesty has graciously elevated Venerable Phra Thepvichiryan Sundhorn, a renowned Buddhist scholar from Maha Sarakham Province, to the high rank of Phra Racha Khana Chadnimitti, with the ceremony formally conducted on May 1, 2026. The 47-year-old venerable, who traces his spiritual lineage from a celebrated Northeast Thai meditation master, serves as abbot of Wat Pa Wang Nam Yen and maintains five subordinate temples. His temple, established in 2006, is renowned for its impressive wooden structures, including the largest dharma hall in Thailand.

12 May Khaosod

On Friday, May 1, 2026, at 10:30 a.m., His Majesty graciously appointed Air Chief Marshal Chom Rungsawang, a royal advisor, to present a certificate of rank, fan, and three-colored cloth to Venerable Phra Thepvichiryan Sundhorn at Wat Phutthavanaram (Wat Pa Wang Nam Yen) in Mueang District, Maha Sarakham Province.

The Sovereign issued a royal charter on April 16, 2026, elevating the venerable to the rank of Phra Racha Khana Chadnimitti with the royal title 'Phra Thepvichiryan Sundhorn Bowordhammapani Siribhawananustittha Mahakanissara Buworsangkharam Kamwasi,' of the Vipassana tradition, currently stationed at Wat Mahachai Royal Monastery in Maha Sarakham Province, with five subordinate temples registered under his name.

The Director of the National Office of Buddhism assigned Supathorn Muangmaj, Director of the Buddhist Education Division, along with officials from the National Office of Buddhism and the Maha Sarakham Provincial Buddhist Office, to participate in the ceremony and assist with sangha affairs.

Venerable Phra Thepvichiryan Sundhorn, formerly known as Suriyant Wanasasub, is a renowned Buddhist scholar from Maha Sarakham, tracing his spiritual lineage from the late Venerable Luang Pu Kamphan Kosobunyo, a celebrated meditation master from Nakhon Phanom Province.

Currently 47 years old with 27 years of monastic service, he serves as the abbot of Wat Pa Wang Nam Yen in Geung Sub-district, Mueang District, and as assistant abbot of Wat Mahachai Royal Monastery. Born on February 13, 1979, in Maha Sarakham Province to parents Thongchai and Lamun, he was ordained at age 15 at Wat Don Kloi in Kalasin Province.

He was fully ordained on April 17, 1999, and subsequently traveled throughout Northeast Thailand's forests seeking spiritual advancement. Learning of Luang Pu Kamphan's reputation, he became his student and studied advanced meditation techniques, ancient scriptures, and sacred amulet-making rituals for four years.

In 2006, after returning to Maha Sarakham, devoted followers invited him to establish Wat Phutthavanaram (Wat Pa Wang Nam Yen), which has flourished through the patronage of donors. The temple features remarkable permanent structures, including the nation's largest wooden dharma hall, constructed entirely from hardwood.

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Community

Around the Monastic World – Luang Pu Thin's Amulet Coins

This article explores the significance of amulet coins created by revered Buddhist monks in Thailand, featuring detailed descriptions of coins from Luang Pu Thin and other respected abbots. These coins, created for various temple ceremonies and charitable fundraising, have become highly collectible items among Buddhist devotees. The article documents the design, inscriptions, and historical importance of these sacred amulets, which serve both spiritual and practical purposes in supporting temple development.

12 May Khaosod

"If you try too hard, you overshoot; if you're too lenient, you fall short due to lack of balance," a teaching from Luang Pho Cha Supattho of Wat Nong Pa Phong in Ubon Ratchathani. Luang Pu Thin Saranummo, the late abbot of Wat Ban Dong Muang Noi in Yang Si Surat District, Maha Sarakham Province, is known for his amulet coins created in 1977 commemorating the ordination hall dedication. The temple produced 5,000 coins with a round shape and loop handle, featuring a half-length bust image on the obverse with inscriptions honoring the abbot, and sacred mantras on the reverse.

Decades ago, along the Thai-Cambodian eastern border, Luang Pho Eia Kittiko of Wat Ban Dan in Prachuap Khiri Khan was widely recognized. His most sought-after amulet is a coin minted in 1962 commemorating his establishment as a senior monk, featuring a centered portrait with his name inscribed above and mystical yantra symbols on the reverse.

One devoted follower, Luang Pu Thanom Chantawaroh, abbot of Wat Kham Tiao Yai in Nakhon Phanom, created his first coin series called "Labh Phon Phun Thawai" (Prosperity and Abundance) to fundraise for temple restoration. The oval-shaped coin features intricate engravings and symbolic designs, carefully crafted despite being the first and only series.

In 2019, Luang Pu Pan Sampendhamma of Wat Thepnimit Chanthraesang Wanaram in Khon Kaen celebrated his 80th birthday. His devotees commissioned a special coin amulet series to raise funds for temple public facilities development. The coin features a full-length seated Buddha figure in meditation posture, with sacred mantras and inscriptions honoring the revered master's spiritual accomplishments.

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Community

Sacred Amulet News – Luang Pho Neuang Sitting Table Coin Edition B.E. 2511, Wat Chula Mani

Luang Pho Neuang, a revered Buddhist monk from Wat Chula Mani in Samut Songkhram Province, is remembered for restoring his temple and creating highly sought-after amulets, particularly the limited 1968 Sitting Table Coin Edition in copper.

12 May Khaosod

Venerable Master Luang Pho Neuang Govidho, formally known as Phra Kru Govidh Samutkun of Wat Chula Mani in Bang Chiang Subdistrict, Amphawa District, Samut Songkhram Province, was a highly esteemed Buddhist monk whose original name was Neuang Tao Suwanna. Born on February 14, 1909, in Klong Yai Village, Phraek Nam Daeng Subdistrict, Amphawa District, he completed his primary education through fourth grade at Wat Bang Kapo School in 1920. At age 23, he was ordained on July 29, 1932, at Wat Bang Kapo, with Luang Pho Kong Thammacho serving as his preceptor, Luang Pho Chaem Solos as his ceremonial instructor, and Phra Ajarn Plong as his exemplary teacher.

He pursued Buddhist scriptural studies and achieved the highest examination rank in 1936, while simultaneously mastering meditation and esoteric practices under prestigious masters including Luang Pho Kong of Wat Bang Kapo—who created one of the five most sought-after amulet sets in Thai history—as well as Luang Pho Chaem of Wat Chula Mani and Luang Pu Chai of Wat Sadet, famous for his legendary protective tapers. This distinguished lineage of teachers exemplified his profound spiritual knowledge and exceptional power within the Buddhist tradition.

Venerated by devotees throughout Samut Songkhram and neighboring provinces, Luang Pho Neuang dedicated his life to developing Wat Chula Mani and its community. He received his first ecclesiastical rank as Phra Kru Sanyabat Tri in 1933 and was promoted to Phra Kru Sanyabat Tho in the Vipassana lineage in 1974. Wat Chula Mani itself is an ancient temple, believed constructed between 1629-1647 during the reign of King Prasatthong, originally named Wat Mae Chao Thip. As a historically significant temple related to the Chakri Dynasty's Bang Chiang branch, it had deteriorated over time, but Luang Pho Neuang oversaw its restoration into a magnificent and complete facility, notably the four-sided marble hall measuring 40 meters wide, 80 meters long, and 10 meters high, with construction valued at tens of millions of baht. The foundation stone was laid on August 15, 1968, by the Supreme Patriarch.

In early 1987, Luang Pho Neuang's health declined, and he passed away peacefully at 6:20 a.m. on November 27, 1987, at Sammitivet Hospital, at the age of 78 (56 in Buddhist years).

The most popular amulet associated with Luang Pho Neuang is the "Sitting Table Coin Edition," created in B.E. 2511 in a limited run of 2,000 pieces in copper only. According to accounts, Luang Pho Neuang commissioned his disciples to design the first amulet edition for Wat Chula Mani, though his first coin was actually issued at Wat Prasatbunyawat in Bangkok in 1964. Initially designed as a full-length seated figure, Luang Pho Neuang disapproved and requested a half-length version instead, with only limited numbers of the full-length edition distributed.

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National

Health Ministry Escalates Hantavirus Surveillance, Intensifies Screening of Flights from 13 South American Countries

Thailand's Health Ministry has escalated surveillance for hantavirus and increased screening measures at all 74 international disease control checkpoints, focusing on travelers from 13 South American countries. As of May 12, authorities have screened 470 travelers from South America with no confirmed cases, though passengers with fever above 38 degrees and related symptoms will be sent to Bamrasnaradura Institute for diagnosis and isolation. The ministry emphasizes this preventive measure to maintain public confidence and promote safe international tourism.

12 May Khaosod

The Health Ministry has escalated hantavirus monitoring and ordered strict enforcement at all 74 international disease control checkpoints, with special attention to screening flights from 13 South American countries. Dr. Monton Kanasuwan, director-general of the Department of Disease Control, inspected the international disease control checkpoint at Suvarnabhumi Airport on May 11 to monitor preparedness for hantavirus screening measures targeting travelers from South America. Although Thailand has not yet reported any hantavirus cases, the ministry is implementing precautionary screening for travelers from 13 South American countries who have been there within the past six weeks to build public confidence and promote safe international tourism.

Travelers from high-risk countries must report their arrival and provide medical history on Form 8 at the international disease control checkpoint before immigration processing. Those showing symptoms consistent with hantavirus infection—such as fever above 38 degrees Celsius accompanied by headache, muscle pain, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, or shortness of breath—will be sent to Bamrasnaradura Institute for diagnosis and placed under isolation or quarantine as appropriate.

Dr. Direk Khampaen, deputy director-general of the Department of Disease Control, stated that the department has instructed checkpoint officials to conduct strict passenger screening, particularly those from high-risk areas, while ensuring proper patient referral systems, risk communication, and inter-agency coordination for effective disease surveillance, prevention, and control. The 74 international disease control checkpoints—comprising 17 at airports, 18 at seaports, and 39 at land borders—continue to maintain strict environmental sanitation and vector control measures on international vehicles such as cruise ships.

Since May 9, screening has identified 470 cumulative travelers from South America, averaging 157 daily, with no suspected cases detected. The five airports with the highest arrivals from South America are Suvarnabhumi (371 people), Chiang Mai (28), Don Mueang (27), Phuket (20), and Krabi (2). The Department of Disease Control urges the public returning from abroad who experience high fever, muscle aches, or unusual shortness of breath, especially after contact with rodents or travel from high-risk areas, to consult a doctor immediately and provide travel and animal contact history for rapid and appropriate diagnosis and treatment. For inquiries, contact the Department of Disease Control hotline at 1422.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Diverse Vehicles – Testing Nissan Kicks e-Power: New Design with Superior Convenience and Safety

Nissan unveiled the new Kicks e-Power model with comprehensive design updates and advanced safety features including the ProPILOT driver assistance system. The vehicle combines a stylish new exterior with interior tech upgrades like wireless smartphone charging and an intuitive 7-inch TFT display. Test drives at a dedicated EV facility demonstrated the vehicle's smooth e-Power engine performance, exceptional cabin quietness, and intelligent safety systems including rear collision prevention and automatic braking capabilities.

12 May Khaosod

The new model debuted at the recent motor show and has received positive reception. The new Nissan Kicks e-Power features a completely redesigned exterior and comprehensive safety enhancements, including ProPILOT driver assistance system to help reduce stress from congested city traffic.

To familiarize drivers with the new design, overall performance, and safety features, PR representative Kamlachon Charoencindaratana organized a test drive at an EV testing facility in Rayong province for electric vehicles, connected vehicles, and autonomous driving.

The testing began with an introduction to the vehicle's exterior design. The all-new exterior features Nissan's distinctive V-Motion grille, sleek redesigned headlights, and three-arrow shaped daytime running lights that enhance the modern aesthetic. The side profile conveys SUV strength with solid proportions and sharp lines that add a fresh, energetic feel. The rear features minimalist line design with large KICKS badging and hexagonal taillights characteristic of Nissan SUVs.

Inside, the new display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. A 7-inch TFT instrument cluster with digital speedometer adds modern appeal with clear graphics. The rear-view mirror can switch between actual mirror and rear camera footage. The driver's seat adjusts electrically in six directions, and the leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel features wireless smartphone charging.

The new Nissan Kicks e-Power uses a 1.2-liter Euro 6 compliant engine that generates electricity stored in a battery, which powers the motor to drive the vehicle. This delivers an electric driving feel without requiring behavior changes, as it still uses conventional fuel.

Nissan's team simulated various driving conditions at multiple test stations. Starting with normal driving on straight roads and diverse curves, the 136-horsepower, 280 Newton-meter motor provides smooth continuous power. Acceleration is responsive like an electric vehicle but with slight delay, making vehicle control easier.

One notable change is the remarkable quietness inside the cabin—regardless of road type or speed, the interior remains consistently quiet.

On smooth highways at higher speeds, there's no wandering sensation. Cornering feel after the first turn isn't particularly sharp, so lighter braking helped increase confidence.

Next was testing the ProPILOT system, which includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic distance maintenance from the vehicle ahead. The system maintains speed, distance from the car in front, automatic stop and start, and keeps the vehicle centered in the lane. If the vehicle drifts out of lane, the system provides gentle warnings and steering assistance. The driver must maintain hand contact with the steering wheel. Both systems work seamlessly together, providing smooth, fluid acceleration, braking, and steering inputs.

Finally came testing the rear collision prevention system and automatic braking when reversing, which emits warning sounds when obstacles are detected behind the vehicle during parking and provides alerts when approaching dangerous points. If the driver hasn't braked at critical moments, the system activates automatic braking.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Pat Napat Responds to Drama Over Naming Daughter Sanya, Same as Peet Thongjor's Child

Celebrity Pat Napat has responded to online criticism about naming her unborn daughter Sanya, which shares the same name as Peet Thongjor's child. Pat explained that the family chose the name together because it has a positive meaning—representing a self-shining star or guardian of sanctity—and confirmed they will not be changing it despite the controversy.

12 May Khaosod

Pat Napat, who is expecting her second daughter at six months pregnancy with a delivery expected in August, has addressed the controversy surrounding her daughter's name. After announcing she would name her daughter "Sanya," online commenters questioned why she chose the same name as Peet Thongjor's daughter, asking why she didn't select a different name.

In a recent response to a popular community page, Pat explained that the family discussed the name together. Since she already has a son named Reszing, they wanted to find a daughter's name starting with the Thai letter "Sor." They ultimately settled on the name Sanya because the family agreed it carries a good meaning that everyone liked.

According to the source, Sanya means "a star that shines with its own light" or "guardian of sanctity and holiness." Despite the naming drama, Pat's grandmother firmly stated they will not change the name, as the decision is final.

Source: Neighboring Aunt Page News Team, May 12, 2026

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Cabinet Approves 452 Million Baht Relief Package for 91 Soldiers Affected by Thai-Cambodian Border Incident

Thailand's cabinet has approved a 452.35 million baht relief package to support 91 military personnel who were physically and psychologically injured in a Thai-Cambodian border incident. The emergency funds have been allocated to the Thai Armed Forces, Army, and Navy for rehabilitation and medical care of the affected soldiers. The announcement was made by Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek on May 12, 2569.

12 May Khaosod

The Cabinet has approved a budget of over 452 million baht to provide relief and rehabilitation for 91 military personnel affected both physically and psychologically by the incident at the Thai-Cambodian border. Government Spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek announced the Cabinet's decision at 2:00 PM on May 12, 2569 at the Prime Minister's Office. The Cabinet approved the allocation of 452,350,000 baht in emergency reserve funds from the fiscal year 2569 budget to the Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, the Army, and the Navy, as proposed by the Ministry of Defence to assist and rehabilitate the 91 personnel affected by the border incident.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

South Korea blacklists workers from 4 Thai provinces

South Korea has blacklisted workers from four northeastern Thai provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham—and suspended seasonal labour recruitment under the E-8 visa programme for all of 2026. The action follows reports of numerous Thai workers fleeing their positions in South Korea's agricultural and fisheries sectors. Thailand's Department of Employment has urged job seekers to verify recruitment details through official channels to avoid similar complications.

12 May Khaosod

Thailand's Department of Employment has confirmed that South Korea has blacklisted workers from four northeastern provinces and suspended the import of seasonal labourers under the E-8 visa scheme for one year after many workers reportedly absconded from employers.

According to information shared by the Anti-Fake News Center Thailand on Monday, citing the Labour Ministry's Department of Employment, the affected provinces are Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum and Maha Sarakham.

The suspension covers the entire 2026 calendar year, after South Korean authorities found that a number of Thai workers sent under the memorandum of understanding (MOU) programme for seasonal agricultural and fisheries work had fled their designated employers. Officials said the issue has significantly affected Thailand's labour quota for 2026.

The Department of Employment advised people seeking overseas jobs to check recruitment details and schedules through the department's overseas employment website and official channels.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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