National

JAS Sees Rare Opportunity to Secure World Cup Live Broadcasting Rights as Thais Have Watched for Free—Unless Government Steps In

JAS is weighing whether to bid for Thailand's 2026 World Cup broadcasting rights, a 1.3 billion baht investment complicated by Thais having watched the tournament free for two decades. The company says it would only pursue the deal with gov

1 May Khaosod

Dr. Sorachai Asavaprabha, CEO of Jasmine International Public Company Limited (JAS), revealed that following Monomax's launch of three new packages for Premier League, FA Cup, and world-class sports broadcasting next season—Entertainment (199 baht/month), Sports Standard (399 baht/month), and Sports Premium (599 baht/month)—the company has upgraded its world-class streaming technology and content to avoid repeating mistakes from previous years.

Dr. Sorachai acknowledged concerns about the price increases, explaining that while fans are the company's priority, the new pricing offers greater value and remains competitive compared to historical rates. The platform will continue adding premium global content. Last year's user base exceeded 1.5 million, and the company expects continued growth this year through new features and add-ons, backed by marketing support.

Regarding negotiations for 2026 World Cup broadcasting rights, Dr. Sorachai explained that while multiple parties have approached JAS, acquiring these rights presents a unique challenge. "World Cup football is a difficult case because it's been free for Thai viewers for the past 20 years," he noted. The live broadcasting rights are valued at approximately 1.3 billion baht. Although JAS has the purchasing power and opportunity, implementing a paid model is challenging due to communication difficulties and managing audience expectations. "We would only consider it if the government provides support and we operate as a strong streaming platform with an established customer base and robust content distribution capabilities," he stated. Currently, no Thai broadcaster has secured the 2026 World Cup rights. The tournament will be held in Mexico, Canada, and the United States from June 11 to July 19. Six ASEAN nations have already purchased broadcasting rights: Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. Five ASEAN countries remain without rights: Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Brunei, and Laos.

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Police

Labor Minister Juldej Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Rider's Death in Traffic Accident, Accelerates Social Security Compensation and Pushes New Law Protecting Informal Workers

Labor Minister Juldej expressed condolences over a 27-year-old delivery rider's traffic death and ordered accelerated Social Security compensation while pushing legislative reforms to protect informal platform workers.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2026, Labor Minister Juldej Amornvivat and leader of the Pheu Thai Party expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Alongkorn, a 27-year-old rider who lost his life in a traffic accident while performing his duties. He immediately ordered the Social Security Office (SSO) to verify the victim's benefits, noting initial findings confirmed the deceased was previously insured. The minister instructed officials to examine all accumulated benefits and ensure the family receives the full amount owed as quickly as possible.

Regarding long-term solutions, Minister Juldej emphasized that safety and welfare for platform workers are top priorities. The Pheu Thai Party is preparing to submit a draft amendment to the Social Security Act to establish equitable basic welfare systems, and the Labor Ministry is similarly studying reforms to adapt the law to modern digital work models, ensuring equal protection, benefits, and workplace safety for all workers.

The minister stressed that all workers' lives have equal value and dignity, and this tragic loss serves as an expensive lesson reminding the state that welfare systems must modernize. As both Labor Minister and Pheu Thai leader, he committed to fully advancing this legislation to deliver justice and dignified protection to all informal workers as vital engines of the nation's economy.

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National

A Look Back at the 500-Rai Empire of Sai Chiang, Star of the 'Broke, Stressed, Drinking' Ad, at White Sand Beach Amid Controversy

Actor Sai Chiang, famous for the 'Broke, Stressed, Drinking' ad, met anti-corruption officials to clarify his involvement in White Sand Beach project in Nakhon Pathom after withdrawing from his ambassador role due to financial strain.

1 May Khaosod

Actor Sai Chiang, famous for the widely-recognized 'Broke, Stressed, Drinking' advertisement, met with anti-corruption officials to file a daily report and clarify his withdrawal from the brand ambassador role for Siam Chai White Sand Beach in Nakhon Pathom. He explained that an acquaintance businessman invited him into a real estate venture with plans to develop a beach. Sai Chiang promoted birthday events and presented himself as the beach owner, appearing on various programs that attracted numerous visitors. However, his heavy financial commitment led him to withdraw, and he filed a report with the anti-corruption office stating he has no further involvement with the White Sand Beach project. Investigators, however, discovered that Sai Chiang's name appears on the title deeds of only some plots of the White Sand Beach property shared with 3-4 other individuals, preventing him from filing the daily report as requested. Tracing back to 2020, the actor had promoted various television programs showcasing a 500-rai real estate empire developed alongside friends, who transported sand to create a beach in Nakhon Pathom, including appearances on channels such as Nicky Nana and others.

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National

Thaksin Still Has Hope for EM Monitoring Removal if He Files Health Petition

Thaksin Shinawatra could still have his electronic monitoring device removed if he files a health petition after his release, according to Justice Ministry sources, despite the clemency committee's decision to require him to wear one until

1 May Khaosod

Thaksin Shinawatra, the former prime minister, still has hope of having his electronic monitoring device removed during his conditional sentence if he submits a petition due to health concerns. High-level sources within the Justice Ministry revealed that while a clemency committee on April 29 approved Thaksin for a general sentence reduction as one of 859 eligible inmates, they imposed the condition that he wear an EM device until his sentence concludes on September 9, 2026.

Normally, elderly inmates over 70 years old with chronic illnesses requiring continuous medication are not required to wear EM devices due to health and medical care concerns. However, the committee made this exception in Thaksin's case after deliberation. His family and legal team have questioned this decision, citing that Thaksin is elderly with chronic health conditions, has no history of escape, and maintains a fixed residence at Baan Jan Song Pha, which should exempt him from such requirements.

According to Justice Ministry insiders, while the current committee decision requires Thaksin to wear the EM device through September 9, 2026, individuals under probation can still petition for its removal if they subsequently face medical treatment needs or mental health issues like panic attacks. The Department of Probation would then exercise discretion to approve or deny such requests. Precedent exists for cases where probation officials removed EM devices based on health and medical care justifications.

The EM device installation could occur on the day of Thaksin's release from Klong Prem Central Prison, with probation officers conducting the initial reporting and explaining the conditions, including monthly check-in dates and behavioral requirements during the probation period.

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National

PM Offers Wishes on National Labor Day, Emphasizes Wage Increases Must Be Justified

Prime Minister Anuthin Charnvirakul marked National Labor Day on May 1st by pledging to consider wage increase requests only if they have a logical and justified basis.

1 May Khaosod

At Government House on May 1st, Prime Minister Anuthin Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister offered their appreciation to workers on National Labor Day 2026, extending wishes for their good health, successful careers, and stable lives. When asked whether the government would respond positively to wage increase requests, PM Anuthin stated that everything must have a logical basis.

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National

Deputy Education Minister Akkanat Visits Storm-Affected Schools in Sisaket, Emphasizes No Welcome Ceremonies Needed, Launches Peer Mentorship Model

Deputy Education Minister Akkanat visited storm-damaged schools in Sisaket province on May 1, allocating emergency funds for repairs and announcing plans to expand a peer mentorship program nationwide to improve student safety and learning

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, Deputy Education Minister Akkanat Kan-kittinanth and his team visited Khukhan Witthaya School and Khukhan School in Sisaket province to inspect and encourage schools affected by severe winds, while monitoring the performance of district-level learning promotion centers (Sakr). The visit aimed to address local issues and discuss strategies for improving education in the area.

Akkanat reported that emergency funds had been allocated to repair storm damage at Khukhan Witthaya School before the semester begins, and recommended the school apply for 2027 budget funds to build a replacement classroom building. Additionally, the Education Ministry will provide one vehicle to facilitate transportation for underprivileged students.

At Khukhan School, which serves 3,674 students, officials identified overcrowding in the cafeteria with capacity for only 900 students. Plans are underway to allocate 2027 budget funds for constructing a new cafeteria. Akkanat praised the "Older Students Care for Younger" program, which creates a strong student-led safety network, and plans to expand this model to other Ministry of Education schools nationwide.

Akkanat also announced plans to push for over 4 billion baht in budgets to address teacher shortages, support academic advancement, and modernize outdated 2008 curricula for the digital age. Public libraries will be transformed into co-working spaces to attract contemporary learners.

Stressing his commitment to reducing teacher burden, Akkanat stated: "My field visits don't require special receptions or ceremonies—just a glass of water is enough. Our ministry's core policy is to lighten the load on teachers by eliminating redundant programs so they can focus fully on teaching and professional development. I'm here to listen and find solutions together, because educational opportunities must reach everyone. We will leave no one behind."

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Breaking

Family appeals for A− and O− blood donors ahead of heart surgery

A family is urgently seeking rare A-negative and O-negative blood donors for a patient's triple bypass heart surgery scheduled May 19 at Banphaeo General Hospital in Samut Sakhon.

1 May Khaosod

SAMUT SAKHON — A family is urgently appealing for rare blood donations ahead of a life-saving heart operation scheduled later this month at Banphaeo General Hospital.

Geno L. Eckley is scheduled for triple bypass surgery on 19 May, but doctors need sufficient supplies of A-negative (A−) or O-negative (O−) blood to proceed. Both blood types are considered rare, particularly in Thailand, making it difficult to find compatible donors.

His daughter, Areya Eckley, said the family is reaching out to English-speaking communities and expatriates across the country, where these blood types are statistically more common.

"This is a life-saving operation, and the blood donations are absolutely critical," she said in a message shared with media outlets.

Eckley, described by his family as a devoted husband and father of three, is currently preparing for surgery as doctors await confirmation that adequate blood supplies are secured.

How to donate Donors with A− or O− blood can donate directly at Banphaeo General Hospital, or through the Thai Red Cross Society at designated centres in Bangkok and Hua Hin.

Donors must provide the following information to ensure proper allocation: Patient Name: Geno L. Eckley Patient Number: 017424-69

Donation locations and contacts: Banphaeo General Hospital (Samut Sakhon) — Tel: 034 419 555 ext. 9030 or 9031 (1:00–3:00 PM) Thai Red Cross (Bangkok) — Tel: 02 263 9600 Thai Red Cross (Hua Hin) — Tel: 032 512 370

The family emphasizes that even a single donation could make a crucial difference in ensuring the surgery can proceed as scheduled.

Further updates are expected as the surgery date approaches.

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National

Snooker Association Slams SAT for Approving Events but Denying Funds, Leaving 25 Million Baht in Debt—Deputy Director Promises Immediate Resolution

Thailand's Billiards Association has accumulated a 25 million baht debt after the Sports Authority approved snooker tournaments but withheld funding, forcing the chairman to use personal assets to keep the organization operational. SAT's de

1 May Khaosod

Sunthon Charumchai, chairman of the Billiards Association of Thailand, disclosed that the organization has struggled significantly with budget constraints over the past two years, resulting in a 25 million baht deficit. The core problem is that the Sports Authority of Thailand approved the organization to host national championship tournaments but refused to release funds after the events concluded, forcing Charumchai to use his own resources to keep the association afloat.

"For 30 years, we've continuously organized national championships, submitting approval requests a year in advance," Charumchai explained. "These include six-ball snooker, women's snooker, youth snooker, and pool championships. We received approval for all of them, but when it came time to withdraw funds, we were told there was no budget. Over the past two years alone, without receiving a single baht in funding while spending 7-8 million baht annually—totaling over 10 million across two years—our account is now 25 million in the red. While other deputy directors have provided partial support and we've sought sponsors to minimize losses, I've had to lend my personal funds to the association and even sold assets to prevent it from going bankrupt during my tenure."

Preecha Lalun, deputy director of SAT's sports excellence division, responded that he had already discussed the issue with Charumchai. SAT has submitted a proposal to the National Sports Development Fund for additional budget allocation, and snooker is included on the priority list. Once the fund approves the request, snooker will receive immediate financial support along with other sports in urgent need.

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Weather

Erratic Weather Brings Rain and Heat; Phayao Reservoir Water Level Drops Sharply as Dead Fish Float Ashore Amid Foul Odors

Phayao's Gwan reservoir faces a crisis as erratic weather causes water levels to drop sharply, leaving thousands of dead fish floating and emitting foul odors across the critical water source.

1 May Khaosod

Phayao province is experiencing severe weather fluctuations with alternating rain and intense heat, causing water levels at Gwan Phayao reservoir to plummet dramatically. Dead fish, including snakehead and tilapia, are floating across the reservoir's surface and emitting a foul stench.

On May 1, 2025, authorities reported that weather conditions in Phayao remain highly unstable, with rain and scorching sunshine alternating rapidly and causing swift environmental changes. Gwan Phayao, a critical natural water source for the province, has seen its water level drop alarmingly. Current measurements show the water level at 390.35 meters with only 14.934 million cubic meters remaining—noticeably lower than the historical average for this period. The situation is causing serious concern among local fishermen and residents who depend on the reservoir for drinking water and agricultural irrigation.

Meanwhile, numerous dead fish have been discovered floating along various sections of the reservoir, including snakeheads, tilapia, and native species, creating a pervasive foul odor throughout the area. Authorities have begun urgent recovery efforts to bury the carcasses and prevent public health problems.

Experts attribute this phenomenon primarily to extreme weather volatility, which causes rapid water temperature fluctuations. Combined with falling water levels, this leads to a sharp decline in dissolved oxygen, causing fish to suffocate and die en masse. This pattern has become increasingly frequent over recent years, particularly during seasonal transitions.

If the crisis continues, it could have widespread ecological consequences for Gwan Phayao—a vital ecosystem and major natural tourism destination that generates substantial income for the region. Local residents are urging government agencies to take immediate action before the fish kill crisis worsens.

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Breaking

Hero Dog: Kali the Stray Sacrifices Her Life Protecting Over 30 Children from Venomous Snake

A stray dog named Kali died protecting over 30 schoolchildren from a venomous snake in India, engaging the snake in a fierce fight and killing it despite being fatally bitten. The grateful village honored her with a dignified funeral proces

1 May Khaosod

Hero Dog: Kali the Stray Sacrifices Her Life Protecting Over 30 Children from Venomous Snake. Indian villagers hold dignified funeral procession.

A beloved stray dog named Kali from Dhirakula village in Odisha state, India, became a local hero after sacrificing her life in battle with a venomous snake to protect more than 30 schoolchildren from danger.

According to Indian news agency NDTV, the incident occurred around 8:30 a.m. near Sri Jagannath Sishu Vidya Mandir primary school in the Mayurbhanj district while many students were sitting outside the school. A venomous snake slithered dangerously close without anyone noticing.

In the critical moment, Kali immediately rushed between the children and the snake, engaging in a fierce fight. Despite being bitten on the mouth, Kali successfully killed the snake and eliminated the threat. However, the snake's venom claimed her life shortly after.

The incident deeply saddened the entire village, as Kali was a familiar and beloved stray dog to the community. To honor Kali's ultimate sacrifice, villagers held a dignified funeral ceremony comparable to that of a human, wrapping her body in white cloth, adorning it with flowers, and conducting a procession around the village before her formal burial.

One villager said, "Kali saved the lives of our children. She will remain in our hearts forever." Multiple local Indian media outlets reported the story widely, hailing Kali as a symbol of bravery and the loyalty that animals show to humans.

All the schoolchildren are currently safe with no reports of injuries from the incident. Kali's story has garnered widespread attention both within India and internationally, serving as an example of the great sacrifice made by one stray animal.

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National

Deputy Education Minister Akkhornwit Sets May 5 Deadline for Learning Standards Office to Address Outdated Textbook Concerns

Deputy Education Minister Akkhornwit gave the Office of the Basic Education Commission until May 5 to explain why Thai schools still use outdated textbooks from 2008 and address content quality concerns raised by opposition lawmakers.

1 May Khaosod

Following complaints from opposition members of the People's Party who called for an investigation into the standards of textbooks produced by the Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) due to outdated content and insufficient academic material, Deputy Education Minister Akkhornwit Kankittinunt issued an urgent directive on May 1, 2025, requiring OBEC to clarify its textbook publishing procedures by May 5.

During an inspection tour of Northeast Thailand, the deputy minister discovered that school libraries were still using curriculum materials from 2551 (2008). While acknowledging the concerns, Akkhornwit assured that the investigation would be thorough across all dimensions—including curriculum content, textbook development processes, and real-world implementation—to ensure comprehensive and fair evaluation.

"If deficiencies are found, we will expedite curriculum improvements and modernize textbooks to align with global changes and learner needs," the deputy minister stated.

The opposition delegation, comprising MPs Theerapong Jiratrarat, Pavitta Jitakij, Pimpakanjana Keerattivirapakorn, and Nophatthorn Jitaphinnanthakantha, highlighted concerns regarding content quality, price appropriateness, procurement transparency, and the continued use of 2008 curriculum materials without updates reflecting current academic and social contexts—issues potentially affecting educational quality, public budget, and public confidence.

Additional infrastructure problems were noted, including rented private spaces and temple facilities used for instruction in Bangkok's Thonburi side, with maintenance costs borne by staff themselves.

The deputy minister's directive requires OBEC to: (1) clarify the facts and justify using 2008 curriculum materials; (2) establish a textbook standards evaluation committee with external experts and expedite solutions; and (3) investigate facility arrangements in the Thonburi area regarding use of private rentals or temple spaces.

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