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National

Labor Network Urges Cabinet to Fast-Track Worker Protection Bills; Labor Minister Chulphon Pledges Support But Process Must Restart

Labor representatives have formally urged Thailand's cabinet to advance two stalled worker protection bills that would reduce working hours to 40 per week, increase holidays, and grant menstrual leave rights. Labor Minister Chulphon Amorwiwattana pledged support but indicated the legislative process must restart since the cabinet did not return the bills to parliament after the dissolution of the previous assembly.

6 May Khaosod

At 10:45 a.m. on May 6, 2025, at the National Assembly, MP Seya Champathong of the Pheu Thai party's list-based representatives, alongside the Thai Textile, Garment, and Leather Products Industrial Workers Federation led by deputy president Thanpong Cheuamueangpan, submitted a letter to Labor Minister Chulphon Amorwiwattana requesting that the cabinet advance two stalled worker protection bills for parliament's continued consideration.

The first bill would establish rest periods and reduce working hours to no more than 40 hours per week while increasing paid vacation days. The second bill would enhance worker dignity by adding menstrual leave rights and establishing nursing rooms in workplaces. Both bills were originally proposed by Pheu Thai party representatives.

Seya noted that although both bills passed their first reading and a special committee was established to review them, parliament was dissolved before the second reading could take place, leaving the bills in limbo. He expressed satisfaction that the labor minister personally received the letter and indicated Pheu Thai's support.

Federation deputy president Thanpong emphasized that these bills represent the lifeblood of workers' lives. He argued that amid economic hardship and instability, workers should not be further burdened; instead, laws should improve their quality of life. He expressed frustration that beneficial legislation could be lost due to political failures or the indifference of those in power who undervalue workers' wellbeing.

Labor Minister Chulphon responded that he is prepared to take action on the various points raised, though details require discussion. He clarified that since the cabinet did not endorse the bills for parliament's review, the legislative process must restart from the beginning. He stressed that he does not oppose the laws themselves and believes many proposals have merit, warranting careful government consideration. Regarding menstrual and maternity leave provisions, the ministry will establish a working group to discuss the matter and develop a joint draft bill for submission to parliament as soon as possible.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Parliament Erupts! Opposition MPs Protest Over Blocked Discussion; Sopone Defends Himself, Insists He Did Nothing Wrong

A heated parliamentary session on May 6, 2025 saw opposition MPs clash with Speaker Sopone Sarunmi over procedural rules and the right to discuss urgent matters outside the formal agenda. Opposition members protested what they viewed as arbitrary restrictions on debate, arguing the speaker should allow discussion of important issues affecting both parliament and the public. The speaker defended his position, maintaining that strict adherence to parliamentary protocols was necessary to maintain order and prevent disruption.

6 May Khaosod

At 10:30 AM on May 6, 2025 at Parliament, the House of Representatives held its session with Speaker Sopone Sarunmi presiding. Before entering the agenda, chaos erupted when Bangkok MP Pongsaranath Thongli from the People's Party attempted to raise a discussion about parliamentary procedures. However, Speaker Sopone refused to allow him to speak, explaining that discussion topics must be submitted in writing and follow established protocols agreed upon in the bipartisan committee. When Pongsaranath tried to reframe his request as an urgent matter, the speaker again refused, saying the agenda was still incomplete and his issue could wait.

This prompted People's Party list MP Parnwut Udomphipat to suggest the speaker proceed with the agenda first, then address the discussion afterward. Speaker Sopone clarified that parliamentary control requires strict adherence to agenda and agreements. He stated that he cannot allow unscheduled discussions simply because someone raises their hand, as this disrupts the meeting's flow, though he does permit discussions on important matters.

Parnwut countered that they were discussing genuine public grievances and parliamentary matters that members have the right to address. He noted that when both party caucuses previously agreed on something, the speaker has failed to implement it, forcing members to raise the issue. He criticized the speaker for shutting down debate without even hearing what members wanted to say, comparing it to muting the microphone before understanding the concern.

Speaker Sopone shot back, telling Parnwut to sit down and accused him of "just talking for talking's sake." This prompted Parnwut to protest that the comment was dismissive. Sopone denied being sarcastic and demanded his own opportunity to respond, noting that Parnwut was present during the bipartisan committee meeting. He explained his refusal was based on the fact that members were mixing oral and written discussions inappropriately.

"As a speaker controlling the meeting to maintain proper order as I see fit, what I have done today is not wrong," Sopone stated. "I have not blocked members and have opened opportunities for discussion, but you have overstepped. People watching at home will misunderstand me." Parnwut remained unconvinced, asking the speaker to review the video clip of what was said to Pongsaranath beforehand, noting he was actually trying to find a solution. He maintained that being told he "just talks" was clearly sarcastic, and as an MP, he has the right to protest. He felt the comment was disproportionately harsh and asked the speaker to reconsider, though he would not demand an apology but simply wanted to reaffirm his position.

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National

Mae Klong Coconut Sugar Receives GI Status as Samut Songkhram's Sixth Geographical Indication

Mae Klong coconut sugar from Samut Songkhram province has received geographical indication (GI) status, becoming the province's sixth certified GI product. The traditional sugar, produced using time-honored methods that date back to the fifth reign, is prized for its superior sweetness, aroma, and richness, while offering health benefits including a low glycemic index. With annual production exceeding 107 million kilograms generating 129 million baht in economic value, the GI registration covers multiple product forms and aims to strengthen quality control systems and market confidence.

6 May Khaosod

The Department of Intellectual Property has officially registered the geographical indication (GI) for Mae Klong coconut sugar from Samut Songkhram province, a signature product recognized for its distinctively sweet, aromatic, and rich flavor derived from traditional production methods. Mae Klong coconut sugar has long enjoyed a stellar reputation, with historical records from King Rama V's travels documenting the superior quality of coconut sugar from nearby Bang Cha town in Samut Sakhon, describing it as "exceptional in sweetness, richness, and fragrance." This renowned flavor profile stems from Samut Songkhram's unique geographical characteristics as a coastal lowland area where freshwater, saltwater, and brackish water converge—creating mineral-rich clay-sandy soil ideally suited for coconut cultivation and producing exceptionally high-quality coconut sugar.

The province currently produces over 107 million kilograms of Mae Klong coconut sugar annually, generating economic value of up to 129 million baht per year. The GI registration covers multiple product forms including fresh coconut flower nectar, coconut sugar blocks, coconut sugar syrup, and coconut sugar powder—all derived from coconut flower sap processed according to time-honored local wisdom. Traditional production techniques include careful tapping and scraping of coconut flower clusters, using wooden containers treated with bark to prevent spoilage without chemicals, and heating at precisely controlled temperatures, ensuring purity and safety.

Beyond safety, Mae Klong coconut sugar offers nutritional benefits with low carbohydrates and a low glycemic index that doesn't spike blood sugar levels, making it an attractive choice for health-conscious consumers. The meticulously crafted production process combined with its distinctive characteristics positions it as a versatile ingredient for the food industry, suitable for savory dishes, desserts, baked goods, and beverages including coffee and tea, where it enhances flavor profiles and adds unique aromatic notes.

Mae Klong coconut sugar marks Samut Songkhram's sixth geographical indication product, following white pomelo, kam longan, Bang Cha chili, Mae Klong mackerel, and Mae Klong salt. The Department of Intellectual Property is implementing comprehensive support measures with emphasis on quality control systems to build consumer confidence.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Police

Chinese Man Reports to Police After Gold Jewelry Goes Missing—Turns Out His Dog Was the Culprit

A Shanghai man's police report over missing gold jewelry worth 30,000 baht led investigators to an unexpected culprit: his Alaskan Malamute had swallowed the valuables, which were later recovered naturally.

6 May Khaosod

A Chinese man filed a police report after discovering that gold jewelry in his home worth approximately 6,300 yuan (around 30,000 baht) had suddenly gone missing. The incident occurred in Shanghai, China. After police investigated and found no signs of forced entry or outside intruders, officers noticed something unusual: the man's Alaskan Malamute exhibited strange behavior, breaking out of its cage and acting oddly during the search. Police suspected the jewelry might have been accidentally swallowed by the dog and advised the owner, "The culprit might be in your home—pay close attention to your dog." Though the owner was initially skeptical, the next day while cleaning up after the dog, he discovered the missing gold jewelry inside the dog's waste. The incident went viral online, with netizens commenting such as "Police probably encounter cases like this often," "Once you know the breed, you're not surprised—their intelligence is different from ordinary dogs," and "Lucky it didn't happen outside; training the dog to go indoors actually has its benefits." Source: UDN, compiled by Sanook Online News Team.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Former Abbot of Sanam Chai Temple Opens Up About His Departure, Insists He Won't Return, Has Left Monkhood

Former abbot of Sanam Chai Temple in Ayutthaya has renounced his monastic vows and turned himself in to police, saying he's tired of temple life and won't return despite any offers.

6 May Khaosod

Phra Khru Plad Sambat, the former abbot of Sanam Chai Temple in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province, has explained his reasons for leaving the monkhood and firmly stated he will not return to temple life. He admitted to feeling "tired of many things" and wants to live a normal life.

After disappearing for over a month, the ex-abbot turned himself in to Bang Rak police station early morning on May 5th, asking to be arrested.

On May 6th, 2569 B.E., Pol. Lt. Col. Pongphop Prasombopichai, commander of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya police station, interviewed Somsat Khlai Jindah, the former abbot.

Somsat revealed during the interview that he has decided to renounce his monastic vows and will no longer be involved with the temple. He firmly stated that even if offered a position to return, he would refuse because his decision is final.

He also acknowledged that the main reason for his decision stemmed from a feeling of being "tired of many things" that accumulated during his time as the temple's abbot, which led him to choose a normal life instead. However, he admitted uncertainty about how to proceed with his future.

Meanwhile, Pol. Lt. Col. Pongphop expressed concern about the former abbot's adjustment to civilian life, noting that having spent many years living in the temple, he may face significant challenges adapting to work and financial independence.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

PM Fires Back at Democrats Over Loan Decree, Reaffirms Transparency and Public Benefit

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul defended the government's 400 billion baht borrowing decree as being for public benefit, responding to the Democratic Party's plans to challenge it at the Constitutional Court. The PM asserted that the government welcomes transparent oversight with digital verification and participation from all parties, noting that previous governments have also borrowed funds. Anutin emphasized that his administration's actions are aimed at helping citizens and that relevant agencies stand ready to provide additional information.

6 May Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul confirmed the government's commitment to the 400 billion baht borrowing decree, stating it is intended solely for public welfare and welcomes transparency checks with participation from all stakeholders. Speaking at Impact Forum in Muang Thong Thani on May 6, 2025, Anutin responded to the Democratic Party's opposition and plans to petition the Constitutional Court, arguing that previous administrations had also borrowed funds and that his government is doing its duty to assist citizens. The PM, alongside Deputy PM Ekniti Nititpong and Finance Minister, emphasized that all financial procedures undergo scrutiny, including digital system verification, and that all parties are invited to participate in the oversight process. When asked which agencies should provide further clarification, the PM stated that the Finance Ministry already has this responsibility and relevant agencies are available to provide additional information upon request.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

PM reveals compensation of 8 billion baht for wrongfully convicted since 2001, vows to close justice system gaps

The Prime Minister announced 8 billion baht in compensation paid to over 145,000 wrongfully convicted people since 2001, pledging to strengthen justice system safeguards to prevent future miscarriages of justice.

6 May Khaosod

On May 6, 2025, at 9:30 AM at Impact Forum in Muang Thonburi, Prime Minister Anupong Paojinda and Justice Minister presided over a national event titled "24 Years of Rapid, Comprehensive, and Fair Assistance to Innocent Victims: Justice Delayed is Justice Denied," attended by Justice Minister Rutpol Naowarat, Justice Permanent Secretary Pongswat Nilaiyotin, and international representatives.

The Prime Minister stated that any nation's stability must be built on justice and rule of law, emphasizing the government's commitment to protecting innocent people caught in the judicial system, whether as victims, accused, or defendants. Protection extends equally to all groups, including foreign nationals in Thailand, based on human dignity and universal human rights principles.

The government adheres to rule of law principles ensuring equal application of laws, protecting rights and freedoms in democracy, fair law enforcement, and legal reforms to reduce unnecessary obstacles. Modern information technology systems are being implemented to improve government efficiency and public services.

Innocent people involved in criminal cases may face violations, injuries, reputation damage, loss of freedom, and even death, causing severe life impact for them and their families. The Prime Minister stated this is a serious matter requiring government intervention to protect innocent people's rights, establish safety policies, and close justice system gaps to prevent wrongful convictions.

Since the 2001 Victim and Defendant Compensation Act, the government has assisted over 145,000 innocent victims with approximately 8 billion baht in compensation, plus over 1,000 foreign nationals receiving 47 million baht. The PM emphasized this reflects not success but shame—that the justice system fails to convict actual offenders while punishing innocent people who suffer legal battles and hardship.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Liverpool Ruled Out Selling Cody Gakpo This Summer – Praises His Versatility

Liverpool has confirmed that Cody Gakpo will not be sold in the upcoming summer transfer market, with the club valuing his versatility across multiple attacking positions. The Dutch forward has become essential to Liverpool's attack this season due to injuries and departures of other key players, though he has faced criticism for his goal-scoring output with 9 goals in 49 appearances.

6 May Khaosod

Reports indicate Liverpool has no plans to sell Dutch forward Cody Gakpo in the upcoming summer transfer window, as he can play multiple positions in the attacking lineup.

Gakpo has become a vital player in Liverpool's attack this season following Luis Díaz's departure and Alexander Isak's recent injury troubles.

While the 26-year-old was linked with Bayern Munich during last summer's transfer window, that move never came to fruition.

According to Telegraph reporter Dominic King, Gakpo is a player Liverpool will certainly not let go during this summer's transfer market. The versatile forward will cover for Mohamed Salah's potential departure and Diogo Jota's extended absence throughout the year.

"There are questions that need answering, and it may be asking too much of Alexander Isak to play 60 consecutive matches. Cody Gakpo will not be allowed to leave, as he can play multiple attacking positions. But who else will score the goals?" King stated.

Gakpo has faced criticism for his performance this season, with statistics showing just 9 goals and 6 assists from 49 appearances across all competitions.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Hallo Dara – NANON Releases New Single "What's Wrong?"

Several Thai artists are releasing new music, including NANON's single "What's Wrong?" featuring Tu Tantawan and Tee Theeradej, PlusOne's cover "Chaeng" as part of a 2000s revival project, and new releases from HYE, Varis, and TELEx TELEXs. The artists showcase diverse musical styles ranging from pop ballads to reinterpreted classics, highlighting Thailand's active music industry.

6 May Khaosod

NANON releases his new single "What's Wrong?" (What's Wrong?), showcasing his talents in songwriting and production. He enlisted Tu Tantawan and hot prospect Tee Theeradej to star in the short film and music video. NANON revealed, "This single is a major challenge for me—from developing the concept, writing the lyrics and melody, to producing it myself. Every step has been a real test."

Meanwhile, PlusOne, the male duo Sinveeya and Kong from XOXO Entertainment, returns with their second single "Chaeng (Original by B-king)" as part of "THE TEST OF TIME 2000" project, reinterpreting beloved hits from the 2000s with a contemporary twist.

HYE has released the single "Waiting Area (Waiting)," the third track from his solo album, which continues to reveal different dimensions of his musical identity through both sound and image. The music video features actress Nara Thaepnupha.

Varis continues releasing new music with his third single from this year's album, "If You Would Accept It (YOURS)," a pop ballad told from two perspectives. The mid-section switches to a female voice to reflect the other side of the relationship, adding depth and completeness to the track.

TELEx TELEXs returns with a new chapter in their musical journey in an intensified duo format. Om (lead vocals) and Nao (guitar) reunite to bring back the familiar sound fans know and love, with the new single "See You Again.."

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Teens hurl "ping-pong bomb" at homes, no injuries

Two teenagers on a motorcycle threw a homemade "ping-pong bomb" into a residential alley in Chonburi's Nong Prue subdistrict, damaging a parked car but causing no injuries. The improvised explosive device shattered a side window of a white Toyota Yaris early Wednesday morning. Police are reviewing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the suspects.

6 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — 6 May 2026, Two teenagers riding a motorcycle hurled a homemade "ping-pong bomb" into a residential area in Chonburi province early on Wednesday, shattering a car window but causing no injuries, police said.

Officers at Nong Prue police station were alerted to the incident in Soi Mab Yai Lia 23 in Nong Prue subdistrict.

Residents gathered at the scene to provide information to police. No injuries or fatalities were reported.

Investigators found fragments of an improvised explosive device wrapped in black tape, which had detonated after being thrown by the suspects.

The blast damaged a white Toyota Yaris parked outside a rental property, shattering a side window.

A resident, Chat Klam Bua, 65, said she was asleep when she heard a loud explosion.

"I woke up and went to check, and saw the car window had been shattered," she said, adding that most people in the area were asleep at the time.

Witnesses told police they saw two teenage males riding a motorcycle enter the alley before throwing the explosive and fleeing the scene at speed. The make and model of the motorcycle were not identified.

The resident said she had no known disputes with anyone.

Police have documented the scene and advised the victim to file a formal complaint. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage along possible escape routes to identify and apprehend the suspects.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Village Headmen Accept MP Phandith's Apology, Call for Close Monitoring of Party Disciplinary Action

Thailand's Association of Village Headmen accepted a formal apology from Bangkok MP Phandith Nuamjerm after he alleged that village headmen are drug dealers during parliamentary debate. The association submitted a statement to interior ministry officials and parliamentarians, while expressing hope that this incident would encourage more careful and evidence-based discourse in the legislature. Officials pledged their continued support for village headmen nationwide and called for the ruling Pheu Thai Party to announce its disciplinary decision.

6 May Khaosod

At 9:30 a.m. on May 6, 2025, at parliament, the Association of Village Headmen, Community Leaders, Sub-district Health Officers, and Village Assistant Leaders of Thailand, led by association chairman Yongyos Kaewkhiao, submitted a letter to Deputy Minister of Interior Peersuwan Suwannachuay and other Interior Ministry officials as well as members of parliament from Bhumjaithai Party. This was in response to remarks made by Bangkok MP Phandith Nuamjerm of the Pheu Thai Party, who alleged that village headmen are drug dealers.

Yongyos stated that the association is currently conducting monthly meetings in Nakhon Si Thammarat province, with district officers ordering drug testing during these gatherings. He noted this is the fifth time he personally has undergone such testing following the parliamentary allegations. He emphasized that village headmen positions are considered "clean family" positions.

Yongyos announced the association's second official statement accepting the apology from Phandith and Pheu Thai, praising the MP for taking responsibility and acknowledging the mistake. The association hoped this would serve as a lesson that parliamentary criticism should be based on factual evidence and show respect for field-level workers. The association stated they will use this incident as motivation to continue fighting drug problems with integrity and transparency.

Deputy Minister Peersuwan expressed that the Interior Ministry has always worked well with village headmen nationwide and found the parliamentary remarks unacceptable given the MP's qualifications. However, with the formal apology issued, he said they await the outcome of disciplinary measures from Pheu Thai. He pledged the ministry's full support for all village headmen across the country.

Pheu Thai MP Kraweir Parisnanandkul of Ang Thong province stated that the association submitted documents to all parties highlighting the impact of the parliamentary remarks. He noted this serves as an important lesson for all parliamentarians to be more careful and evidence-based in their discussions, and that it should prompt greater caution across all parties in future parliamentary debates.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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