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National

Interior Ministry Orders Nakhon Si Thammarat Governor to Investigate Bribery Claims for Territorial Defense Volunteer Exam; Reaffirms No Recruitment Since 2024

A Territorial Defense Volunteer member in Nakhon Si Thammarat allegedly demanded 300,000 baht in bribes for exam help, prompting the Interior Ministry to order an immediate investigation into the extortion claims.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, Orsitthisak Somphanrat, Permanent Secretary of the Interior Ministry, addressed online social media reports alleging that a Territorial Defense Volunteer member in Chuang District demanded 300,000 baht in bribes for exam assistance, though the applicant was never actually a member. The complainant recovered only 230,000 baht and has pursued the remaining 70,000 baht for four years while facing threats.

The Permanent Secretary ordered the Nakhon Si Thammarat governor to immediately investigate the facts and address public concerns, as the allegations severely damage the government's reputation. Governor Somchai Seelaanoi reported that on April 30, the complainant filed a petition at the Provincial Ombudsman's Office regarding the extortion claim. The governor has directed responsible officials to verify the facts, protect involved parties, and question all Chuang District volunteer members about the incident.

Preliminary findings show no evidence of bribery by any Territorial Defense Volunteer member in Chuang District. Importantly, Nakhon Si Thammarat Province has not opened recruitment for volunteer membership positions since 2024. The Permanent Secretary stressed the urgency of this investigation, noting its significant impact on administrative credibility and the Interior Ministry's image. He emphasized that the province must rapidly complete all legal procedures while simultaneously conducting public relations efforts to inform the general public of the true facts.

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National

Te Phra Ram 7 Visits University, Showcases Push-ups and Unveils 'Bangkok Can Fly' Policy to Send Bangkok Residents to Space

Bangkok political figure Te Phra Ram 7 visited Srinakharinwirot University on May 1 to promote his 'Bangkok Can Fly' group's ambitious policies, which include developing flying cars, sending residents to space, and establishing dinosaur-the

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, Mongkolkit Suksinthananont, known as 'Te Phra Ram 7' and chairman of the 'Bangkok Can Fly' group, visited Srinakharinwirot University Prasanmitr to meet with students and participate in selfie photo sessions, push-up competitions, and social media content creation. Hundreds of students attended the lively event.

Mongkolkit revealed that the campus visit was in response to an invitation from student groups and he was surprised by the large turnout. Many students inquired about his potential candidacy for Bangkok Governor and the 'Bangkok Can Fly' group's policies. Representatives from Rangsit University also invited him to visit on May 7, 2025, as students wanted further discussions and to hear more about his vision.

During the meeting, Mongkolkit outlined the 'Bangkok Can Fly' group's comprehensive policies covering infrastructure development, technology, and quality of life improvements. These include improving Saen Saeb Canal for safe water usage, developing flying cars, sending Bangkok residents to space, establishing a paleontology museum, and creating a 'Jurassic World'-style tourist attraction in Bangkok. He also proposed introducing electric dinosaur robots as city activities and landmarks, noting that while the private sector can develop these projects, the government has not seriously allocated budgets.

He proposed increasing salaries for Bangkok civil servants and personnel by 10% for those meeting health criteria, using exercise as a condition for local tax reductions, and expanding healthcare benefits including surgery services at Bangkok hospitals, while promoting continuous physical activity among residents.

Mongkolkit stated that if the 'Bangkok Can Fly' group gains support from more than 25 Bangkok City Council members, they could reduce corruption-related budget allocations by 40%, redirecting approximately 20 billion baht toward public welfare. He also proposed opening tourism zones 24 hours daily and promoting comprehensive entertainment complexes in high-end hotels to attract tourists and investors, generating revenue for city development.

Regarding social policy, he proposed increasing elderly allowances in Bangkok to 3,000 baht monthly, suggesting district-level implementation first due to lower budget requirements compared to nationwide programs, which would need hundreds of billions of baht.

Mongkolkit also stated that several politicians and academics have expressed interest in representing the 'Bangkok Can Fly' group in a Bangkok Governor candidacy, though any supported candidate must fully commit to the group's policies to ensure unified administrative direction.

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Tourism

Phi Phi National Park Denies Viral Airport Construction Claims

Phi Phi Islands National Park has publicly denied viral social media claims about a new international airport being built on Phi Phi Don Island, stating the AI-generated image and announcement are completely false. Officials explained that the proposed site is already occupied by hotels, restaurants, and other businesses, while the park's steep limestone terrain makes airport construction impossible.

1 May Khaosod

KRABI — Phi Phi Islands National Park has dismissed viral social media claims that Phi Phi Island would develop its own international airport, labeling the information as false.

In a Facebook statement, park director Saengsuree Songthong addressed an Instagram post from April 1st that claimed "Phi Phi will have its very own international airport starting May 1st," complete with a convincing image. Songthong clarified that the image was artificially generated and does not represent an actual location.

The area in question is thought to be on Phi Phi Don Island, spanning Ton Sai Bay and Loh Dalum Bay. This privately-owned land measures approximately 140 meters wide by 1,490 meters long, and is already developed with hotels, restaurants, a hospital, and other commercial establishments—making it completely unsuitable for airport development.

Songthong further noted that the national park is predominantly covered in steep limestone mountains, which are naturally incompatible with airport construction or aircraft operations.

Authorities have urged residents and tourists to verify information through official channels and refrain from amplifying unconfirmed reports to combat misinformation and public confusion.

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National

Democrat Party to Submit Social Security Bill Draft; Nattapong Points to Citizens and Insured Workers as Driving Force for Parliamentary Passage

The Democrat Party submitted a social security bill draft to Parliament, arguing that 20 million insured workers and public support are essential for passage, while calling for professional management of the fund independent of civil servic

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, at Bang Pho intersection, Democrat Party members led by Nattapong Ruangpanya, party list MP and party leader Sirikanya Tanskul, deputy party leader Rakchanok Srinok, Sia Champathong, Thanaporn Wijanthorn, Sahasawat Koomkhong (Chonburi MP), and Panida Mongkolsawat (Samut Prakan MP), along with citizens, marched to Parliament House to submit the Democrat Party's social security bill draft.

Nattapong explained that successfully pushing the bill through requires public support, especially from the 20 million insured workers whose contributions form a fund larger than the national budget. These funds must be managed transparently and professionally with accountability to the insured workers.

Sahasawat highlighted that over the past year, Social Security Fund management has faced serious problems with no transparency about fund usage. He stressed that while contributions come from three parties, management remains under civil service control despite civil servants not being beneficiaries themselves. He argued that government officials lack the expertise for professional fund management, resulting in low returns and sustainability concerns. Sahasawat called for removing the Social Security Office from the civil service system and appointing professional managers.

When asked if the Democrat Party alone has enough votes to push the bill through, Nattapong stated that discussions with the government have been ongoing, but the crucial factor is the voice of insured workers. If the House approves it, Senate passage should face no obstacles. He expressed confidence that no political party would oppose legislation benefiting the people, as all parties campaigned on similar promises during elections.

Regarding reports of a 4 billion baht fund discrepancy, Sahasawat said his team continues investigating the Social Security Board and has not received clear clarification from office officials about how the data was incorrectly recorded. Without documentary evidence confirming the error details, the information remains unconfirmed. The Democrat Party is planning to formally establish a committee to investigate the matter.

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Tourism

Bang Saen Beach Packed with Holidaymakers as Labor Day Crowds Escape the Heat

Bang Saen beach drew holiday crowds on May 1 despite traffic congestion, but vendors say business remains sluggish as families cut spending on school expenses and fuel costs deter travel.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, Bang Saen beach in Saen Suk subdistrict, Muang district, Chon Buri province, was swarming with visitors from across the region during the Labor Day holiday. Traffic congestion choked the main road leading to the beach and the beachfront promenade, while families sprawled across sandy areas and under beach umbrellas for meals. Both children and adults happily waded into the refreshingly cool seawater to escape the intense heat.

Thanapol, a beverage vendor at Bang Saen beach, noted that while today seemed busy, it was a far cry from last year's Labor Day. The beach still had empty spaces, whereas normally it would be completely packed. Business this year has been sluggish despite the tourist numbers because parents are cutting expenses to pay for school tuition and uniforms.

Anant, an inflatable tube rental operator, reported that while tourists appeared numerous, they were fewer than expected. Visitors are spending cautiously due to the upcoming school term and high fuel prices have deterred travel compared to previous years. His daily earnings have plummeted to nearly one-quarter of normal holiday revenue—dropping from 4,000-5,000 baht on typical holidays to just 400 baht on regular days and about 1,000 baht during festival days.

Yuttapoom, 31, who traveled from Min Buri with his family, said he chose Bang Saen for its pleasant atmosphere and proximity. Despite heavy crowds and traffic difficulties, he found the trip rewarding once he got his family into the water. He was impressed by the affordable yet delicious food and the beautiful, cool seawater that made an excellent summer escape.

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National

Deputy PM Ekniti Says Thai Help Thai Plus Program Won't Make Cabinet Meeting on May 5, Delayed to Next Week

Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphat announced that the Thai Help Thai Plus program, which includes the Half-Half Plus cash handout scheme, has been delayed and will not be presented to the Cabinet on May 5. The delay is due to pending confirmation of exact budget figures and the loan framework, with approval now expected the following week. Two related financial measures—the 2025 budget reallocation bill and a borrowing decree worth 400-500 billion baht—will be presented to the Cabinet on May 5.

1 May Khaosod

The Thai Help Thai Plus initiative, including the Half-Half Plus cash handout project and other vulnerable group assistance measures, will not be brought before the Cabinet on May 5. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphat announced that an Economic Cabinet meeting must be held first to approve the 2025 budget reallocation bill and the borrowing decree. The Economic Cabinet meeting was originally scheduled for May 4 but falls on a public holiday, and the Prime Minister has yet to reschedule it.

Nitithanpraphat explained that the budget reallocation amount is still being confirmed and will be discussed with the Budget Bureau today to determine how much in delayed disbursements and uncontracted funds remain. If funding proves insufficient, the government will tap a borrowing decree with a framework of either 400 billion or 500 billion baht, still under consideration.

"In the May 5 Cabinet meeting, the Finance Ministry will propose approval of two items: the 2025 budget reallocation bill and the issuance of the borrowing decree," Nitithanpraphat said. "The Thai Help Thai Plus measures, including the Half-Half Plus program, will be presented for approval by the Economic Cabinet and the full Cabinet next week."

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National

Thailand Pickleball Championship Kicks Off with Big K, Big A, and Taya Pushing Sport to International Level

Thailand's newly recognized pickleball sport held its national championship with top sports officials pledging support for international development. The Thailand Pickleball Championship 2026 took place in Pathum Thani with competitions for all age groups and a separate wheelchair category, marking strong government backing for the sport's growth. Officials outlined plans to elevate pickleball toward Olympic recognition and international excellence within the coming years.

1 May Khaosod

Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, director of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), together with Prof. Pimol Srivirk, chair of the Thai Olympic Committee and advisor to the Pickleball Association, and Taya Teepsuwan, president of the Thai Pickleball Association, officially opened the 2026 Thailand Pickleball Championship (Thailand Pickleball Championship 2026 Presented by BRAGG) held May 1-3 at Pickleball Warehouse in Rangsit, Pathum Thani Province. A wheelchair pickleball competition was held separately on May 3 at the Benchamakitti Sports Center.

Dr. Kongsak noted that pickleball is a newly recognized sport that the Sports Authority and Thai Olympic Committee recently approved under Thai sports law. He praised the association for organizing both international and domestic competitions within a short timeframe, particularly for including wheelchair pickleball, which aligns with SAT's mission to promote sports participation across all segments of society. Looking ahead, SAT aims to work with the association to develop pickleball toward international excellence by securing its inclusion in national youth and national sports programs and establishing membership in the International Pickleball Federation, which must first be recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

Prof. Pimol Srivirk noted that pickleball is an emerging global sport gaining worldwide recognition due to its fun, ease of play, and accessibility to all ages. He commended the tournament organizers for their high-quality execution and expressed hope for more frequent competitions, ideally expanding to other provinces to grow the player base and develop Thailand's national team potential.

Taya Teepsuwan reported that pickleball has grown rapidly over the past 3-4 years, with Thailand seeing a 40 percent increase in players over the past year. He attributed this growth to the sport's accessibility across all ages and ease of learning, and announced plans to continue organizing competitions to develop more athletes who can eventually represent Thailand internationally.

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National

Honda Committed to Customer Care and Sustainable Growth with Thai Society

Honda Automobile Thailand operates over 200 service centers and an Asian Parts hub in Thailand serving the region, delivering genuine parts to Bangkok within one day and remote areas within three days to ensure customer peace of mind.

1 May Khaosod

Honda Automobile (Thailand) underscores its commitment to sustainable business operations alongside Thai society through diverse product development tailored to every lifestyle and exceptional after-sales service. The company operates over 200 service centers throughout the country and maintains Honda's Asian Parts Center, serving as the regional hub for Asia and Oceania.

Located in Thailand, the center spans over 129,600 square meters and stocks genuine, high-quality parts for every Honda model for more than 20 years. The company has developed advanced warehouse management and logistics systems utilizing modern technology for fast and accurate parts distribution.

Parts are delivered to Bangkok and surrounding areas within one day, provincial areas within two days, and remote areas within three days, ensuring Honda customers drive with confidence and peace of mind on every journey.

Honda's commitment—"Whatever Honda model you own, long-term peace of mind"—reflects the brand's promise to remain alongside Thai people while growing sustainably with Thai society across all eras.

With over 40 years of business experience in Thailand, Honda extends its commitment beyond customer care through quality products and services. The company continues investing steadily in Thailand's development, making it one of Honda's key global manufacturing bases. Honda operates a production facility in Prachuap Khiri Khan province manufacturing vehicles for domestic sale and export, featuring efficient, environmentally-friendly production technology that strengthens Thailand's automotive industry chain. The operation utilizes components from local manufacturers while developing Thai workforce capabilities—all reflecting Honda's business conduct rooted in social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, while enhancing Thailand's long-term competitive industrial capabilities.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Businesswoman Files Fraud Complaint Against Notorious Amulet Dealer Over Brand Luxury Goods Scam and Land Sales, Bounced Checks Leave Her 300 Million Baht in Losses

A businesswoman filed fraud charges against an amulet dealer who conned her out of 300 million baht through fake luxury goods sales and overvalued land deals between 2022 and 2025, with bounced checks and forged documents allegedly signed w

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, a prominent businesswoman authorized her lawyer to file charges with the Crime Suppression Division against a notorious amulet dealer and related parties for fraud and other related offenses. The case dates back to June 2022 when the businesswoman first met the amulet dealer, who befriended her and offered to purchase branded handbags at high prices, claiming he would resell them for profit. The dealer later presented mortgaged land for sale to the victim in multiple parcels, accepting payment by check rather than cash. Initial checks cleared, but subsequent checks bounced repeatedly. On April 2, 2024, the dealer requested a meeting to create a debt acknowledgment letter, proposing an 84-installment payment plan at 5.76 million baht per installment, with 152 amulets offered as collateral security. Problems with bounced checks persisted. On July 2, 2025, the dealer arranged a meeting at an amulet shop to execute a supplementary agreement. During this meeting, the dealer allegedly encouraged the businesswoman to consume alcohol until she lost consciousness before having her sign the disadvantageous document. In March 2025, when the victim had the amulets and land appraised, she discovered the properties were overvalued by nearly double their actual market value. Additionally, the branded goods were never sold as promised but were allegedly kept for personal use with no public sales announcement. The victim believes the defendant never intended to conduct legitimate business or repay debts from the outset, with total damages estimated at approximately 300 million baht. She has now formally filed charges, and investigators have accepted the case for prosecution recommendations.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Suphan Buri Pushes Full Steam Ahead to Prepare for Olympic Day Suphan Buri 2026

Suphan Buri Province and the Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage held their first preparatory meeting for Olympic Day 2026, set for June 27-28 at Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium. The event will feature the 'Let's Move Together' concept, incorporating running activities, cultural programs, community engagement, and an Olympic Day Fair to promote local businesses and tourism. Registration for participants will open on May 10-15, 2026.

1 May Khaosod

The Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage, in collaboration with Suphan Buri Province, the Ministry of Industry, the Suphan Buri Provincial Administrative Organization, and public and private sector partners, held their first preparatory meeting for the 'Olympic Day 2026' event scheduled for June 27-28, 2026 at Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium.

Leading executives and agency representatives attended the meeting, which was chaired by Industry Minister Warawut Silparacha, alongside Dr. Suwanna Silparacha, Deputy Chair of the Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage, Nathpong Songwanjit, Suphan Buri Governor, Dr. Udom Prongfa, President of the Suphan Buri Provincial Administrative Organization, Supavatthana Jongsiri, Chair of Comart Production Company, and representatives from government agencies, partner organizations, and relevant networks. Together, they established operational guidelines aligned with international Olympic policies and aimed to promote participation across all segments of society.

For 2026, the event operates under the core concept 'Let's Move Together,' inviting people of all genders, ages, and groups to move together for good health, friendship, equality, and mutual respect, all grounded in Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.

The meeting discussed walking and running activities alongside cultural promotion initiatives, youth inspiration programs, social activities, and environmentally friendly event planning. Organizers will develop an 'Olympic Day Fair' as a creative activity space for families, communities, businesses, shops, and local Suphan Buri products, featuring group aerobic exercises and musical performances.

The event aims to boost local economic development, stimulate tourism, and create opportunities for local entrepreneurs through the participation of runners, families, and people from across the country. This inaugural meeting marks an important integration point for multi-sector cooperation to make 'Olympic Day Suphan Buri 2026' more than just a running event—it's a space for society to move together under the 'Let's Move Together' concept. The Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage and Suphan Buri Province have scheduled Olympic Day 2026 for June 27-28, 2026 at Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium, Ruai Yai Subdistrict, Muang District. Registration will open May 10-15, 2026, with further details available through the Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage Facebook page.

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National

Nonthaburi Pheu Chart Lawmakers Explain Prime Minister Reception as Proper Hosting Protocol

A Nonthaburi Pheu Chart MP defended his appearance at a Prime Minister event as proper hosting protocol, saying he seized the opportunity to submit a letter about local infrastructure issues including the M-81 expressway and water pipes.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, at Bang Pho intersection, Nathpong Ruengpanyawutti, a Pheu Chart party list MP and party leader, addressed the controversy surrounding Suthat Mesiri, a Nonthaburi Pheu Chart MP, appearing at an event where Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected goods for the Thai Help Thai Plus program aimed at reducing living costs.

According to inquiries, Suthat intended to submit a letter directly to the prime minister regarding local problem-solving efforts, though the timing may have required the district chief or officials to receive it instead.

Suthat explained that he had previously raised concerns about the M-81 expressway and broken water pipes in parliament. Given the opportunity to meet the PM and deputy PM at the Thai Help Thai Plus market opening in Bang Yai, he seized the chance to submit his letter as one approach to addressing local issues. Upon arrival, he encountered the district chief first, who agreed to handle the matter.

Since Bang Yai was the event venue and Suthat was the only MP representing that area, he received the prime minister in his capacity as the local host, which he considers proper protocol. When asked about a photograph showing him pushing a cart for the PM, Suthat explained that in that crowded moment, a cart came between them, so they pushed it through—standard service from a local host to a visiting guest.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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