Community

Large Crowds Gather for Sacred Eye-Opening Ceremony of Deities at Renowned Chiang Mai Temple, Featuring Celebrity Performers and Lucky Number Drawings

A large ceremonial gathering took place at Wat Chang Khueang in Chiang Mai on May 14 to perform an eye-opening ritual for sacred Hindu and Buddhist deity statues, attracting crowds of worshippers and celebrity participants. Attendees received auspicious amulets and a lucky lottery number (925) derived from incense during the ceremony, which they can use to purchase government lottery tickets. The event combined religious merit-making with popular Thai lottery practices as worshippers sought blessings and good fortune.

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Crowds gathered for the merit-making and eye-opening ceremony of Thao Amrin Thiracha, Ganesha, Thao Wessuwanna, and other deities at a renowned Chiang Mai temple, with celebrities participating in the sacred ritual and attendees seeking to draw lucky lottery numbers. On May 14, 2025, at Wat Chang Khueang in Saraphee District, Chiang Mai Province, the eye-opening and Buddhist blessing ceremony attracted large numbers of worshippers. Notable attendees included celebrities Tom Rataneegun Phanmonee and pageant winner Beam Umawadee Pimpaa, who participated in the ceremony. Ganesha and Thao Wessuwanna statues were enshrined at the temple for public veneration and prayer, with sacred objects distributed to participants. A special lucky number, 925, was derived from the incense during the ritual, which worshippers were encouraged to use when purchasing government lottery tickets in hopes of winning the grand prize.

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National

HFEP Supports 'Dental Mind Connect 360°' to Establish Proactive Mental Health Care System Across 19 Dental Schools to Combat Youth Stress and Depression Crisis

Thailand's Health Promotion Foundation launched the 'Dental Mind Connect 360°' initiative across 19 dental schools nationwide to address escalating mental health crises among dental students. Recent data shows that young people aged 18-24 in higher education face alarming rates of depression (26.9%) and high stress (24.5%), prompting this collaborative effort to develop integrated digital counseling and proactive mental health screening systems. The workshop held on May 14, 2025, brings together dental schools to implement comprehensive mental health support programs addressing the intense academic and clinical pressures unique to dental education.

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On May 14, 2025, the Health Promotion Foundation (HFEP) joined with the Council of Deans of Dental Schools of Thailand and Naresuan University to conduct the workshop 'DENTAL MIND CONNECT 360°: Integrated Digital Counseling & Proactive Mental Health Screening for Dental Students' at Amari Don Muang Airport Hotel in Bangkok.

Under the mental health promotion and network strengthening project in dental schools, the initiative aims to develop a proactive mental health care system for dental students across the country.

Dr. Pairojn Saonuam, Deputy Manager of HFEP, stated that this collaborative effort in establishing a proactive mental health care system represents a significant step toward mental health support for youth and students who face continuously increasing psychological risks.

Data from Thailand's 2024 mental health assessment shows that young people aged 18-24 in higher education and early career stages face higher mental health risks than other groups, with 26.9% at risk of depression, 24.5% experiencing high stress, and 6% developing clinical depression. This directly impacts mental health, academic performance, daily functioning, and related issues.

Dr. Pairojn stated that HFEP collaborates with networks to develop multiple mental health promotion models for university-aged youth, including specific models for the dental school network. Working with the Council of Deans of Dental Schools of Thailand and Naresuan University, they designed approaches aligned with the specific challenges faced by dental schools.

These include promoting knowledge, understanding, and mental health skills; developing supportive environments, curricula, and teaching methods that benefit mental well-being; establishing mental health care mechanisms, counseling systems, and mental health monitoring; as well as developing best practices, mental health innovations, and collaborative networks.

'Mental health in education is critically important as it affects quality of life and learning. This workshop provides an excellent opportunity to develop dental school personnel from 19 institutions to effectively support their students, and the work will generate lessons that can be scaled and shared as knowledge for other organizations,' Dr. Pairojn said.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Patcharpol Samneang from the Faculty of Dentistry at Naresuan University, who heads the mental health promotion and network strengthening project for dental schools, stated that mental health issues among dental students are a serious concern requiring all institutions' attention.

A survey of 4,255 dental students from 17 universities revealed a concerning mental health situation, with many students at risk who have never accessed mental health services, reflecting critical gaps in care systems and service accessibility.

Key stress factors for dental students stem from academic pressure, clinical training demands, social relationships within the learning community, and the intense educational environment, which directly affect academic achievement, quality of life, and students' mental well-being.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Patcharpol stated that through this project, the Council of Deans of Dental Schools of Thailand aims to develop a comprehensive and sustainable mental health care system for dental school personnel and students.

The workshop included participation from 19 dental schools nationwide, aiming to strengthen the mental health care system.

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National

Thailand Promotes Wolffia as Superfood Champion: Trade Policy Office Eyes New Wealth Source to Boost Thailand's Plant-Based Protein Market

Thailand's Office of Trade and Investment Policy is promoting wolffia (duckweed) as a superfood champion to capture the growing global plant-based protein market, highlighting its exceptional nutritional profile with 30-50% protein content and minimal environmental impact. Multiple Thai startups and government institutions are racing to scale production and develop wolffia-based premium products for export to America, Europe, and Asia, positioning the traditional Thai crop as a "future food" solution for global food security.

5d ago Khaosod

The Office of Trade and Investment Policy (OTIP) is promoting wolffia (also known as duckweed or egg plant in Thai) as Thailand's new superfood champion, emphasizing its high nutritional value, ease of cultivation, and alignment with the global plant-based protein mega-trend. The office encourages Thai entrepreneurs to upgrade production to international standards to create added value from agricultural products into "future food." Nanthaphong Chiralertpong, Director of OTIP under the Commerce Ministry, notes that consumers today are increasingly health-conscious while global agriculture prioritizes sustainability. Wolffia, a traditional Thai indigenous food crop, perfectly addresses both health and sustainability trends. The plant contains 30-50% protein by dry weight with essential amino acids nearly equivalent to animal protein, alongside fiber, vitamins A and B, iron, calcium, and antioxidants—ideal for those seeking plant-based protein alternatives and minimally processed natural health food. Environmentally, wolffia efficiently absorbs carbon dioxide, grows rapidly, and requires minimal resources. As a freshwater plant needing little water and space, it can be cultivated in confined areas without pesticides, resulting in lower production costs than other protein crops. Harvests can be sold daily, creating continuous revenue streams and supporting bioeconomy initiatives. Wolffia's potential aligns with growing food technology startups including Advanced Green Farm Ltd. (flo Wolffia brand), Farm Baan Khai Pam, Wolffia Bangkok, and Wolffia Plus, which have demonstrated that closed-system farming innovations can boost wolffia's protein content to 40%. Private sector companies have proven significant added value by processing fresh wolffia into premium products like protein powder worth 3,000-5,000 baht per kilogram. Businesses are rapidly expanding exports to American, European, Middle Eastern, and Japanese markets seeking low-carbon-footprint protein crops with rare vitamin B12 content. Government agencies and Thai educational institutions—including the Department of Agriculture, National Innovation Office, Suranaree University of Technology, Mahasarakham University, and Mahidol University—are accelerating wolffia development. Between 2567-2568, government research succeeded in developing three high-quality superfood wolffia varieties containing 46-48.6% protein. They are now transferring cultivation technology through "industry-standard prototype wolffia farms" following Good Agricultural Practice (GAP) standards to ensure clean, safe, and contaminant-free production, paving the way for international certification and recognition as "future food" addressing global food security sustainably. Based on field research by OTIP with Kasetsart University under a "project promoting and developing functional ingredient businesses toward high-value functional foods," Associate Professor Dr. Metha Meetaem, founder of Advanced Green Farm Ltd. and owner of the "flo Wolffia" brand, revealed the company's commitment to positioning Thai wolffia as a global player.

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National

Ekniti Vows to Push Forward with 400 Billion Baht Emergency Borrowing Decree, Insists Delay Not an Option Like Denying Medicine to the Sick

Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphase defended the government's 400 billion baht emergency borrowing decree against opposition constitutional challenges, comparing the urgent economic intervention to administering medicine to a critically ill patient. He argued the decree is essential to address global economic turbulence, energy crises, and rising inflation that threaten Thai businesses and citizens' livelihoods, while simultaneously advancing the country's energy transition. Ekniti rejected claims the measure favors big business, emphasizing transparency mechanisms and oversight committees built into the decree.

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At 3:40 p.m. on May 14, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphase held a press conference at Government House regarding the opposition's petition to the Constitutional Court challenging the decree authorizing the Finance Ministry to borrow 400 billion baht to address the energy crisis and advance the country's energy transition. The government stands firm that the decree is economically necessary, he said, citing a global economic crisis stemming from ongoing conflicts, energy crises driving up oil prices, and rising inflation expected to reach 2.9 percent and impact living costs. Ekniti emphasized this current crisis differs from past financial crises like the 1997 Asian financial crisis or the 2008 global financial crisis.

Ekniti stated the decree aims to support citizens' livelihoods and questioned why energy transition couldn't proceed simultaneously, describing it as "killing two birds with one stone." He illustrated how rising costs could force businesses to cut profits or lay off workers, making immediate intervention crucial. Using a medical analogy, he argued that just as a sick patient cannot wait five months for medicine, Thailand cannot delay action. He cited the Russia-Ukraine crisis's impact on electricity costs, arguing the country should have shifted to clean energy then, noting that solar panels, biodiesel transport, and renewable energy reduce living costs while addressing long-term challenges.

Ekniti expressed confidence the decree was comprehensively designed with emergency safeguards and clear mechanisms. He dismissed opposition concerns about favoritism toward big business, asserting the decree includes oversight committees and transparency measures with detailed project screening processes. He stressed that immediate action is necessary as the sick patient needs medicine today, not waiting four to five months for next year's budget allocation.

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Weather

Thai Meteorological Department Names 43 Provinces Facing Heavy Rainfall; Northern and Southern Regions Brace for Impact

Thailand's Meteorological Department warns of severe weather affecting 43 provinces, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms expected nationwide through May 15, 2025, particularly in northern and western regions. Flash flooding poses a significant risk in low-lying and foothill areas, prompting advisories for farmers to protect crops and livestock. Fishermen are cautioned to avoid rough seas with waves exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm zones across both the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand.

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On May 14, 2025, the Thai Meteorological Department forecasts increased rainfall nationwide over the next 24 hours, with heavy downpours expected especially on the western side due to strengthening southwest winds across the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. The public is warned to prepare for thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and accumulated precipitation that may trigger flash floods and flash flooding, particularly in foothill areas near waterways and low-lying regions. Farmers should reinforce fruit trees and prepare protective measures for crops and livestock, while maintaining health awareness during changing weather conditions.

Upper Andaman Sea waves are moderate, approximately 2 meters high, with heights exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. Fishermen are advised to navigate carefully and avoid thunderstorm zones.

24-hour weather forecast from 6 PM today to 6 PM tomorrow:

Northern Region: 70% chance of thunderstorms with heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Nan, Phayao, Uttaradit, Phichit, Phetchabun, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet provinces. Low 21-26°C, high 31-36°C. Southwest winds 10-15 km/h.

Northeastern Region: 60% chance of thunderstorms with heavy rain in some areas around Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, and Nakhon Ratchasima. Low 23-26°C, high 33-35°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Central Region: 60% chance of thunderstorms with heavy rain in Uthai Thani, Kanchanaburi, Ratchaburi, and Nakhon Pathom. Low 24-26°C, high 35-36°C. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Eastern Region: 60% chance of thunderstorms with heavy rain in Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chachoengsao, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Low 23-25°C, high 33-36°C. Southwest winds 15-35 km/h. Sea waves 1-2 meters; over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Southern Region (East Coast): 60% chance of thunderstorms with heavy rain in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Phatthalung, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Low 23-25°C, high 33-36°C. Southwest winds 15-30 km/h. Sea waves approximately 1 meter; over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Southern Region (West Coast): 70% chance of thunderstorms with heavy rain in Ranong, Phang Nga, Phuket, Krabi, Trang, and Satun. Low 23-25°C, high 33-36°C. From Phang Nga northward: southwest winds 20-35 km/h, sea waves approximately 2 meters; over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas. From Phuket southward: southwest winds 15-30 km/h, sea waves approximately 1 meter; over 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Bangkok and Vicinity: 60% chance of thunderstorms. Low 25-27°C, high above 36°C.

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National

Nanthaphas 'Jade' Muljaha, Thailand's Rising Volleyball Star, Eager to Test Skills in Foreign Leagues

Jade Muljaha, Thailand's rising volleyball star, won MVP and leading scorer honors in the domestic league and is now eager to test herself in foreign professional competitions after gaining experience in Vietnam.

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Nanthaphas 'Jade' Muljaha, an emerging star for Thailand's national volleyball team, has confirmed her ambition to compete in foreign leagues after her stint in Vietnam's Division 2 competition.

The rising player recently claimed the MVP award along with the title of league's leading scorer in her second year of the Volleyball Thailand League 2026. She previously competed in Vietnam's league during the 2026 season with club HCDG in late 2025.

On May 14, 2025, Muljaha disclosed that her second year with the national team has brought significant development, including improved game understanding and learning how to compete against world-class athletes. She credited the national team's senior players for their mentorship, though acknowledges there is still much to learn. The national team experience has substantially enhanced her performance in club competition. Moving forward, she aims to maximize her learning from her teammates and bring that knowledge back to benefit her club's league performance.

When asked about playing in foreign leagues, Muljaha expressed her clear intention to pursue international opportunities, stating she wants to experience how professional volleyball is played abroad and gather additional experience.

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National

Primmie, Thai VALORANT Pro, Claims World's #1 Damage Rating

Thai esports star Primmie of FULL SENSE has topped global VALORANT rankings with the highest average damage rating (ACS) at 272.3 points. The accomplished pro player has already qualified for the international Masters London championship in June and is set to compete in the VCT Pacific Stage 1 finals against Global Esports in Vietnam on May 15.

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Primmie, officially named Prapawat Sriprapha, is a Thai VALORANT esports player competing for FULL SENSE and holds the world's #1 ranking for highest average damage dealt. As a key player for FULL SENSE, Primmie and his team have already secured qualification to Masters London in England this June after advancing through the VCT Pacific Stage 1 upper bracket finals. Tournament officials recently released global Average Combat Score (ACS) statistics, revealing that Primmie ranks #1 worldwide with an ACS of 272.3. This statistic is calculated from players with more than 100 rounds played and is current through May 12.

China's ZMJKK from EDG ranks second with an ACS of 252.5, while Paper Rex's Jinggg holds third place with 251.7. Primmie and FULL SENSE will compete in the VCT Pacific Stage 1 upper bracket finals against Global Esports on May 15 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

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National

Central Retail Breaks First Quarter Profit Record with 2.888 Billion Baht, Pushes Forward with Thailand-Vietnam Focus

Central Retail reported record-breaking first quarter 2025 earnings with net profit of 2.888 billion baht and revenues of 66.514 billion baht, demonstrating strong consumer confidence despite global economic challenges. The company is intensifying its strategic focus on Thailand and Vietnam markets through aggressive business expansion, including new brand launches and strategic investments in premium retailers like JD Sports Thailand. Central Retail continues its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility through participation in government cost-reduction programs and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

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Central Retail announced its first quarter 2025 financial results with revenues surging to 66.514 billion baht and achieving record-breaking net profit, reflecting the success of its business portfolio restructuring focused on Thailand and Vietnam markets. On May 14, 2025, Suthisarn Chiratthivatwong, CEO of Central Retail Corporation Public Company Limited (CRC), revealed that despite global business challenges from geopolitical pressures and energy crises in early 2025, Central Retail continues to see strong consumer confidence with shoppers maintaining their trust in the company's retail ecosystem. The company has successfully refined its portfolio to focus on high-growth markets including Thailand and Vietnam.

"We are aggressively expanding and developing our business in both countries under our 'New Heights, Next Growth' strategy across five dimensions implemented over the past year, particularly in expanding customer base and strengthening our CRC foundation through branch expansion, store renovations, and launching new brands," the CEO stated. The company has secured Master Franchise rights to launch 'No Brand' from South Korea and invested in JD Sports Thailand to fully penetrate the premium sports lifestyle market.

Panate Mahakananuruk, Chief Financial Officer, added: "Beyond business growth, Central Retail prioritizes careful financial management and allocates investments for maximum efficiency, enabling us to maintain strong balance between growth and profitability. First quarter 2025 results showed total revenue of 66.514 billion baht (up 1.4% year-over-year) and net profit of 2.888 billion baht (up 12.5% year-over-year), marking a new quarterly record for the company."

On sustainability, Central Retail continues supporting customers and society by participating in the government's 'Thailand Helps Thailand' cost-of-living reduction program through Tops and Go Wholesale, offering over 2,300 essential items at special prices. The company also provides 38 free vehicle inspection services through Auto One while advancing environmental initiatives including increased solar energy usage and transitioning to electric vehicles for long-term energy security.

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Police

Japan Warns Citizens Against Child Sexual Abuse in Indonesia—Offenders Face Prosecution in Both Countries

Japan's embassy in Jakarta warned nationals that child sexual abuse will result in prosecution in both Indonesia and Japan, following reports of Japanese-language social media posts boasting about exploitation of minors.

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Japan's embassy in Jakarta has issued a stern warning to Japanese nationals living in or traveling to Indonesia, cautioning them against engaging in child sexual exploitation. The embassy stated that offenders will face prosecution not only in Indonesia but also in Japan. According to the embassy's warning posted on its website, local authorities can investigate anyone suspected of violating child protection laws or committing rape. Sexual relations with minors can be prosecuted as rape even with the minor's consent. Japanese citizens who exploit minors in Indonesia will also face prosecution in Japan under domestic child protection laws. The warning comes after reports of Japanese-language social media posts that appear to boast about episodes of child sexual abuse in Jakarta and surrounding areas, despite knowing the victims were under 18 years old. On May 13, Jakarta police announced that their cybercrime unit is investigating cases mentioned in these social media posts.

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National

Thai National Cycling Team Steps Up Training for Major Championships, Eyeing Asian Title and Olympic Qualification

Thailand's cycling team is intensifying preparations for major international competitions, including the 2026 Asian Mountain Bike Championships in Uzbekistan and the 2026 Tour de Gueom in South Korea, as part of broader preparations for the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan. The Thai Cycling Association is employing comprehensive sports science methods, including blood lactate analysis and power meter technology, to optimize training programs for all cycling disciplines. Mountain bike athletes will compete in cross-country and eliminator events to test their abilities before the Asian Games, while road cyclists will relocate to Chiang Mai for training with support from Chiang Mai University's medical team.

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Mountain bike coach Robert Herber Jr. expects strong performances from Thai cyclists Poon Siri and Pong Pheera in the cross-country event and Pla Chart and Watchara Korn in the eliminator competition, while road cyclists are competing in the 2026 Tour de Gueom to accumulate Olympic qualifying points for 2028. Pol. Gen. Daecha Hemkraseri, president of the Thai Cycling Association, vice president of the Asian Cycling Confederation (ACC), and president of the ASEAN Cycling Federation (ACF), announced that the cycling association has assembled all national cycling athletes across road, track, mountain bike, and BMX disciplines to prepare for the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, utilizing comprehensive sports science methodology. The association coordinated with Thailand's Institute of Sports Science to conduct blood lactate testing for road and mountain bike cyclists at Chateau de Khao Yai in Nakhon Ratchasima on April 28-30 to enable coaches to design appropriate training programs. For mountain bike athletes under coach Robert Herber Jr.'s supervision, training incorporates sports science analysis and lactate testing results, along with power meter technology to precisely measure cyclists' actual output and enable targeted performance development. The Thai mountain bike team for the 20th Asian Games comprises eight athletes: five men—Pla Chart Nak Thong Kam, Watchara Orn Tuli, Vorapong Mueang Suk, Pong Pheera Pong Ayukul, and Poon Siri Sirimongkol—and three women—Pin Phak Chiang Suan, Porn Phukt Prapodit Tang, and Phumrat Chelinkit. The cycling association plans to send mountain bike athletes to compete in the 2026 Asian Mountain Bike Championships in Uzbekistan from June 23-27, with coach Herber focusing on events contested at the Asian Games, primarily men's and women's cross-country, while also having athletes compete in eliminator events to test readiness for Nagoya. Early competition is essential, as athletes trained since March need international races to gauge their true potential and avoid training monotony. Road cyclists will relocate to Chiang Mai province once PM2.5 air quality improves, as the terrain resembles Nagoya. The cycling association received cooperation from Chiang Mai University's medical technical team to provide comprehensive sports science support including anatomy, physiology, nutrition, psychology, biomechanics, sports medicine, and sports technology. After training in Chiang Mai, the cycling association will send male cyclists to compete in the 2026 Tour de Gueom in South Korea.

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National

Nissan Invites Customers to Experience the All-New Nissan KICKS e-POWER

Nissan Thailand is hosting a nationwide test drive event for the all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER from May 15-17, 2025, featuring the brand's exclusive e-POWER technology that provides electric vehicle performance without external charging. Customers booking during the event can take advantage of special financing rates starting at 1.49% interest, down payments as low as 5,555 baht, and exclusive merchandise giveaways.

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Nissan Thailand is inviting customers interested in the all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER to experience real-world driving through the "The All-New Nissan KICKS e-POWER – KICKS ON. GAME ON. Showroom Test Drive Event" running May 15-17, 2025 at Nissan showrooms nationwide.

Beyond test drives, participants can experience the performance of the exclusive e-POWER technology, which delivers an electric vehicle driving experience without requiring external charging or changes to daily driving habits. The new model offers enhanced comfort with a premium interior design featuring Zero Gravity seats and spacious cabin space for both driver and passengers.

Nissan is offering special promotions for customers who book during the event to make ownership more accessible, including an attractive interest rate of just 1.49%, or starting with only a 5,555 baht down payment with flexible financing options up to 84 months. Existing Nissan customers receive an additional 10,000 baht discount. Event participants also receive exclusive Nissan merchandise including a stylish bag and insulated tumbler (limited quantities, subject to terms and conditions).

The all-new Nissan KICKS e-POWER features modern, refined, and premium design with Japanese quality standards, combined with Nissan's exclusive e-POWER technology powered by an electric motor that delivers responsive acceleration, fuel efficiency, and environmental friendliness. It's equipped with the advanced ProPILOT driving assistance system that enhances comfort and confidence on every journey, creating an exciting driving experience under the concept "KICKS ON. GAME ON." or "New Freedom Kicks Style."

Interested customers can participate at Nissan showrooms nationwide between May 15-17, 2025.

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