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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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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.

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National

Survey work begins for contested Trump Triumphal Arch project in Washington

Survey and geotechnical testing have begun at the proposed site of President Trump's 250-foot Triumphal Arch in Washington, located between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery. The project faces legal challenges from veterans and historians who argue it would obstruct historic sightlines, though it has received preliminary approval from the Commission of Fine Arts.

12 May Khaosod

WASHINGTON (AP) — Workers began preliminary surveys and testing Monday of the proposed site of a Triumphal Arch sought by President Donald Trump, the latest step in plans for the contentious project in the nation's capital.

Workers were seen inspecting the site of the proposed arch between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington National Cemetery with tools and equipment. Part of the site was fenced off and pink flags typically used as survey markings were planted in the grass.

The work on the site was announced in a court filing Thursday in a federal lawsuit challenging the proposed arch. It consists of "surveys and geotechnical testing which are being used to generate information that will assist Defendant National Park Service (NPS) in completing procedural prerequisites" that are part of the decision-making process.

The 250-foot-tall (76-meter) proposed arch is one of several projects the Republican president is pursuing to leave his lasting imprint on Washington. With the potential to change the city's sightline, it has already sparked opposition, including through the lawsuit filed by a group of veterans and a historian.

The arch design, proposed by Trump, has already gotten early approval from the U.S. Commission of Fine Arts, whose members were appointed by Trump.

The proposed monument rises from four lions guarding its base to a torch held aloft by a Lady Liberty-like figure on top, which would be flanked by two eagles — all gilded. The phrases "One Nation Under God" and "Liberty and Justice for All" would be inscribed in gold lettering atop either side of the monument.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment, nor did the Public Citizen Litigation Group representing the four plaintiffs.

A group of veterans and a historian have sued in federal court to block construction on the grounds that the arch would disrupt the sightline between the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington House at Arlington National Cemetery, among other reasons.

The court filing on behalf of the Trump administration said the National Park Service had not issued a final agency action authorizing construction of an arch and should it do so, it would provide at least 14 days notice before any work could begin.

The document said the plaintiffs had been notified of the survey work beforehand and said the survey work did not constitute "construction, or a demolition in preparation for construction, of an arch."

Nicolas Sansone, a lawyer with the Public Citizen Litigation Group that brought the lawsuit on behalf of the plaintiffs, said the government taking the preparatory steps for the construction of the arch is a confirmation that it intends to move forward. "Unless and until Congress has passed a law authorizing the arch, though, the project is unlawful, and the government has no valid basis for pursuing it," Sansone added.

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National

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

Thailand's government has launched the 'Thai Help Thai' program to deliver essential goods at discounted prices through mobile vendors, postal services, and community shops across the nation. The three-month initiative aims to reduce living costs by at least 280 million baht while reaching over 4 million households through a network of 3,800 mobile vendors and nearly 1,000 distribution points. The program offers 14 essential consumer items at special prices to help reduce household expenses and provide convenient shopping options for communities.

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, leader of the Ruam Palang Phuea Chart organization, submitted a formal letter to the Prime Minister demanding immediate enforcement of a Supreme Court ruling requiring former PM Thaksin Shinawatra to pay over 17.6 billion baht in taxes and penalties related to the Shin Corporation share sale. The activist cited the court's August 2024 decision and called for the PM to invoke emergency administrative powers to accelerate tax collection by the Finance Ministry and Revenue Department. Srisuwan also demanded public disclosure of enforcement progress, expressing frustration that collection efforts have been unreasonably delayed.

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

Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanpong has defended the government's controversial 400 billion baht emergency loan decree as economically necessary to prevent small business collapse and mass unemployment amid escalating crises in energy costs, inflation, and living expenses. Rejecting opposition challenges at the Constitutional Court, Ekniti argues the decree addresses urgent economic security concerns and is already in effect. The government plans to proceed with implementation despite the court challenge, viewing the current crisis as fundamentally different from the 1997 financial crisis and requiring immediate intervention to stabilize the economy.

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 presents 'Hidden Beast,' an action-packed romantic thriller starring Ice Panuwatch as Taiga, a young designer seeking revenge for his yakuza father's murder, opposite Yam Matira as Rin, a skilled bodyguard. The series blends intense action sequences with intricate character dynamics, premiering May 15th and airing weekdays at 7:00 PM.

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

Khon Kaen Zoo is inviting the public to name a newborn female pygmy hippopotamus, the granddaughter of Thailand's famous Mu Deng. The healthy calf, born on April 5, 2025, is the offspring of Nadech and Yaya from other Thai zoos and is drawing significant attention from visitors. The zoo plans to launch a public voting campaign to engage the community in selecting an official name for the young hippo.

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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