Tourism

Little Friends – Khon Kaen Zoo Invites Public to Name Newborn Pygmy Hippo, Granddaughter of Mu Deng

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

12 May Khaosod

Mu Deng, the celebrated pygmy hippopotamus from Khao Khiao Open Zoo in Chonburi, has now become a grandmother with the birth of a female calf at Khon Kaen Zoo.

Khon Kaen Zoo announced updates on the newborn female pygmy hippo, born on April 5, 2025, to parents Nadech from Khao Khiao Open Zoo and Yaya from Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo. The calf is Mu Deng's granddaughter and younger sister to Mu Duan, a celebrity pygmy hippo beloved by Khon Kaen residents who is currently drawing significant tourist attention.

Tipavadee Kittakun, director of Khon Kaen Zoo, reported that the calf received a routine health checkup at one month of age with excellent results. The hippo has normal lung function, age-appropriate development, and is receiving close care from veterinary specialists. Physical examination revealed normal tooth and tusk development, with two upper teeth and four lower teeth. A microchip has been implanted for systematic health monitoring. Current weight has increased to 16.45 kilograms from birth weight of 5.76 kilograms, with body length at 72 centimeters, head length 15.5 centimeters, tail length 7.5 centimeters, and measurements showing healthy, robust growth.

"The pygmy hippo calf does not yet have an official name," said Tipavadee. "Khon Kaen Zoo is preparing a public voting campaign to select a name, fostering community engagement and connection with wildlife. We invite the public and tourists to visit and see the adorable new calf alongside its hippo family, and to participate in the naming vote through the zoo's official channels."

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National

Brilliant Young Minds – Next Generation Creating Media to Combat Vaccine Misinformation

The Vaccine Foundation for the People announced winners of the 'Shot of Truth' creative media project, which challenges students and young people to create educational video content about vaccines and combat health misinformation. The nationwide initiative attracted 330 participants from 69 teams, with winning works to be distributed online to raise vaccine awareness and promote media literacy across Thai society.

12 May Khaosod

The Vaccine Foundation for the People, partnering with the National Vaccine Institute and organizations including the Digital Economy Promotion Office (DEPA), Sure Before Share Center, Thai News Agency, ASMT, Muang Thai Life Insurance, Pfizer Thailand, AstraZeneca Thailand, and MorDee intelligent health platform under True Digital Group, held an awards ceremony for the 'Shot of Truth' creative media project honoring students and young people who produced short video clips with accurate information about vaccines and vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases. The initiative aims to build misinformation immunity and promote creative online media use in Thai society.

The project attracted nationwide participation with 330 entrants from 69 teams. Winning works stood out for creativity, academic accuracy, and accessible communication, demonstrating young people's potential as a powerful force promoting health literacy and misinformation resistance. Top prize winners were the NERVE team from International School Bangkok (ISB) and Mahidol University International Demonstration School (MUIDS).

First runner-up was the 'Vaccinated Already' team from Pathumkongka School in Samut Prakan, and second runner-up was 'Better Than Older Siblings, Only Having Monks' from Darassamut School in Si Racha, Chonburi, and Prajinrat Bamrung School in Prachuap Khiri Khan. The Popular Vote Award for vaccine education clips went to 'Know Vax Now!' from Sanam Luang Witthayalai School in Chonburi, while NERVE also won the Popular Vote for misinformation literacy clips.

NERVE team representatives Nathakorn Mahavirrakun and Patchanon Wongwara stated: 'We aimed to make vaccine information more understandable and relatable in an era where fact and falsehood mix together. This project taught us information verification and using AI to gather data before communicating through video clips. It shows that young people can create positive societal impact and we're committed to further develop this work for continued knowledge sharing.'

Winning works will be distributed through online channels to raise vaccine awareness, reduce misinformation spread, and reinforce the collaborative role of government, private sector, and young people in building an informed society with sustainable wellness.

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Breaking

Major Bank Admits Error After Homeowner's Complaint Over Wrongful Foreclosure Lawsuit Despite Zero Debt

A major savings bank has admitted to a serious administrative error after a homeowner complained publicly about receiving a wrongful foreclosure lawsuit despite having fully paid off his home mortgage since May 2024. Bank officials met with the affected homeowner and confirmed they have already withdrawn the property seizure notice from the provincial enforcement office, assuring that no foreclosure sale took place. The bank attributed the mistake to inadequate procedural checks by their legal team and pledged to issue documentation to rectify the situation.

12 May Khaosod

Following the news story, the homeowner met with Mongkolvit Runnunvorakul, manager of Kasikornbank's Savings Bank Chachoengsao branch, and Phetthai Suanjanchan, director of the debt management and control zone 11, who came in person to clarify the situation. The bank admitted the error stemmed from inadequate procedural review by their legal team, which failed to verify complete information despite the homeowner having already closed his account and received his property deed back. The bank has taken swift action and submitted a document withdrawing the asset seizure to the provincial enforcement office, while confirming that no foreclosure sale of the homeowner's property took place. Additionally, the bank will issue documentation certifying that there has been no seizure or foreclosure sale of the property to provide assurance to the affected homeowner and address any ongoing impacts.

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National

Strong Backing for Arne Slot: Liverpool Continues Support for Manager with Summer Transfer Budget

Despite a disappointing season and a petition with over one million signatures calling for his removal, Liverpool's board backs manager Arne Slot and plans to provide summer transfer funds, particularly targeting wingers to strengthen the s

12 May Khaosod

Liverpool continues to support manager Arne Slot with the board prepared to provide additional transfer funds for new players in this summer's transfer window.

Slot's Liverpool has delivered a disappointing season, failing to win any major titles and facing a battle to secure Champions League qualification for next season. This poor form has sparked a campaign calling for the 47-year-old manager's removal, which has already accumulated over one million signatures.

Previously, Liverpool was linked with Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid manager and former Liverpool player, as a potential replacement should Slot be dismissed. However, renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano recently revealed that Liverpool continues to support Arne Slot with no contact made with Alonso. "As I mentioned two days ago, Xabi Alonso and Liverpool have not held talks. Liverpool supports Arne Slot. Should anything change at the end of the season, I will inform you. For now, Alonso has not spoken with Liverpool and they continue to back Arne Slot. Chelsea has not yet made their decision on who they want," Romano stated.

Meanwhile, David Ornstein from The Athletic reported that Liverpool plans to strengthen the squad this summer to provide players Slot needs. "Liverpool wants to reinforce for Arne Slot during this summer window, particularly in the winger position. I expect one or two signings to arrive. They believe this position is crucial, and once they've strengthened, you'll be able to assess Arne Slot's performance much more fairly. Liverpool will be looking to increase their activity in the transfer market," Ornstein said.

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National

Health Minister Assures Thailand on Hantavirus Monitoring as Tourist Screening Continues

Thailand's Health Minister confirmed that no hantavirus cases have been detected domestically, with only one Singaporean tourist infected in the region currently under quarantine. Authorities are implementing close monitoring of all incoming tourists across all entry points, noting that while the virus can spread between people, transmission is slow and manageable with proper precautions.

12 May Khaosod

At a press conference at Government House on May 12, 2025, Health Minister Pattana Prom-pattana stated that hantavirus has not been found in Thailand. In Southeast Asia, only one Singaporean tourist aboard a cruise ship is under quarantine, urging the public not to panic. The minister emphasized that the Public Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation along with disease control officials, particularly screening tourists entering Thailand by land, sea, and air. He noted that hantavirus is not a new disease and may have multiple strains, with the identified variant capable of person-to-person transmission, though the spread is not rapid and can be controlled with proper precautions.

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National

Anutin Inspires New Generation of Engineers to Overcome Limitations and Drive National Innovation

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged engineering students at Mahidol University to overcome barriers and drive innovation for Thailand's future during the 2026 Engineering Maker Expo on May 12. He emphasized that knowledge, deter

12 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul returned to Mahidol University to inspire the next generation of engineers to transcend all barriers and create innovations that will drive the nation forward at the Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 on May 12, 2026, at the Grand Ballroom of Mahidol Sithakarn Conference Center and Parking Building at Mahidol University's Salaya campus. Anutin participated in the Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 Capstone Project Presentation and delivered a keynote address titled "Beyond Boundaries: Unlimited Engineering," with Mahidol University Rector Prof. Dr. Piyamit Sritara presiding, alongside Engineering Faculty Dean Thanapat Vanichanan, Siam Commercial Bank Chairman Krissana Chantanotok, and Engineering Alumni Association President Thamronkiat Udomsang.

Anutin stated that today's concept of boundless engineering is inspirational, yet we must recognize that knowledge makes all things possible. However, knowledge alone does not guarantee success or happiness in life. We see countless examples of people without substantial financial resources who have achieved success and happiness. Regardless of where we are born or our starting point, we can determine our own life's destination through knowledge and determination. In today's rapidly evolving world, continuous learning and self-development are essential.

Anutin further emphasized the importance of understanding why we learn today, as fundamentals are the foundation for knowledge to grow steadily. When you discover your talents or abilities in any field, seek environments and opportunities that value those strengths and boldly pursue them. He reminded students that even a single individual can transform national crises into opportunities with determination, resolve, and perseverance. Do not let obstacles become limitations on your growth. Every student will be a crucial mechanism in driving Thailand forward sustainably and steadily.

The Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 "Capstone Project Presentation" is an exhibition showcasing comprehensive engineering projects by fourth-year Engineering Faculty students, who have utilized four years of academic knowledge to create innovations addressing real-world problems in society and industry. The event takes the form of an innovation marketplace, welcoming businesses and investors to view prototypes for business matching and commercial development opportunities. The expo also serves as a networking platform between students and leading companies seeking talented personnel recruitment, effectively transforming pre-graduation projects into concrete career and business opportunities.

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Police

Government Savings Bank Launches "GSB Love Savings" with Free Accident Insurance Coverage Up to 200,000 Baht

Government Savings Bank unveiled "GSB Love Savings," a dedicated account for children from birth to age 10 that includes free accident insurance covering parents up to 200,000 baht and child medical expenses. The account requires deposits a

12 May Khaosod

The Government Savings Bank has launched "GSB Love Savings," a specialized savings account designed for parents to open for their children from birth until age 10. The account includes accident insurance benefits provided by Thai Insurance Public Company Limited for 12 months from account opening, covering both the parent account holder and the child. Parents receive life insurance coverage of up to 200,000 baht in cases of death, limb loss, or permanent disability—calculated as twice the remaining balance on the day before the accident. Children receive medical treatment coverage of up to 1,000 baht per incident when the account balance ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 baht, with no limit on the number of claims. The account offers a competitive interest rate of 0.25% annually with no tax burden, and deposits can start from as little as 1 baht with no maximum limit. Bank Director Songpon Cheevarojanpong stated that GSB is committed to providing financial products and services for all age groups under its "Smart Social Bank for All Lives" initiative. For more information, customers can contact the GSB Contact Center at 1115 or visit www.gsb.or.th.

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Breaking

Festival Fireworks Strike Two Homes in Single Day, Shattering Windows

Fireworks from a traditional rain-requesting festival in Buriram province struck two homes on May 9, damaging windows and prompting residents to call for stricter safety measures or discontinuation of the pyrotechnics component.

12 May Khaosod

Festival fireworks strike two homes in a single day, causing window damage. While residents understand the tradition, they argue that if it poses dangers to the community, the practice should be discontinued. Village officials are prepared to provide compensation.

On May 12, 2569, a reporter received notice from residents in the Sai Seam area, Sai Seam subdistrict, Prakon Chai district, Buriram province, regarding fireworks from a traditional rain-requesting festival that struck two residential buildings within a single day. Upon investigation, the first house sustained clear damage to its window area from a firework strike. A firework approximately 2 inches in diameter, already ignited, was found near the damaged window. The second house had a firework land within its grounds but suffered no damage. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Ms. Thanistha Techakulthanasotp, 32, owner of the damaged house, stated that the incident occurred on May 9, 2569, during a traditional annual merit-making fireworks festival held in Moo 7, Sai Seam subdistrict, about 1 kilometer from her home. She believes the firework came from that event and struck her window. Initially posting on social media because she was unsure which agency would be responsible, she attempted to contact the event organizers but didn't know who to reach. She wants the responsible party to compensate for the damage.

While residents understand that the fireworks festival is a longstanding local tradition, they urge stricter safety measures to prevent future incidents and property damage. If possible, they would prefer the tradition continue without the fireworks component.

When contacted, the village headman of Moo 7 reported that they had seen the social media post about the window damage but had not yet received an official complaint from the homeowner. Once notified, they will contact the insurance company and investigate the affected properties, as the event organizing committee has obtained liability insurance.

The annual merit-making fireworks festival features fireworks offerings to the sky and rain-requesting rituals according to local beliefs. This year's event included 22 fireworks, each approximately 2 inches in diameter, launched by various communities, groups, and young workers from other areas. The Sai Seam Subdistrict Administrative Organization provided budgetary support for the event.

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National

Senate Urges Government to Reconsider Land Bridge Project, Cites Major Obstacles and Questions SEC Law as a Silver Bullet

Thailand's Senate held discussions on the Land Bridge megaproject connecting the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, identifying significant obstacles and calling for comprehensive government review and legal amendments. Senate members stressed that the Special Economic Corridor law alone cannot guarantee success and questioned whether the project's economic assumptions align with actual shipper needs. The committee emphasized that project viability depends on operational efficiency and competitive logistics management, not just infrastructure construction.

12 May Khaosod

The Senate met on May 12, 2025, to review a feasibility study on the Land Bridge project, which aims to develop transportation infrastructure connecting the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea to boost the southern economic corridor. Senator Norrasetr Pratchyakorn proposed a motion requesting the government to reconsider the project's advancement. Senate Transportation Committee Chair Wuthichai Kalyanamit reported that the committee found the Land Bridge significant and has monitored its development comprehensively across policy, technical, economic, and operational feasibility dimensions to ensure maximum national benefit.

Senator Phamornchai Chaosirikul, chairing the water transport and maritime commerce subcommittee, noted the project has been pursued since 2001 under former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aiming to bring prosperity to the southern region. The committee gathered input from government agencies, private sector, academics, logistics operators, and stakeholders. They determined that the Land Bridge is not merely a port construction or transport route but a comprehensive logistics system requiring integrated operations across multiple timeframes and economic assumptions, with consideration of infrastructure readiness and real-world operational constraints.

Project success depends not only on infrastructure investment but also on system management efficiency, transport process continuity, and competitive standards compared to international ports and logistics hubs. Senator Praphan Lohaviriyasiree, another subcommittee member, emphasized that proposing the Land Bridge requires analyzing costs, time savings, and competitiveness from shippers' and shipping lines' perspectives, along with identifying project limitations and projecting cargo volume. Multiple study scenarios are needed to ensure feasibility, with approximately 80% of cargo being transshipment cargo, making smooth transshipment operations critical to success.

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Regional

Libong Island Coral Bleaching Reaches 80% as Seawater Temperatures Soar; Fears of Crisis Similar to 2010

Libong Island in Trang Province is experiencing severe coral bleaching affecting 80% of its reefs due to dangerously high seawater temperatures linked to global warming. Tourism operators fear the bleaching could intensify to 90% within two weeks if rainfall doesn't cool the waters, potentially creating an environmental crisis similar to the devastating 2010 bleaching event. Experts warn that without temperature relief, marine life may abandon the area entirely as coral ecosystems collapse.

12 May Khaosod

Trang — Residents and tourism operators around Libong Island in Kantang District, a renowned conservation area in Trang Province known for its abundant dugongs and seagrass beds, are increasingly concerned about coral bleaching occurring across Trang's waters due to ongoing global warming. The phenomenon has been accelerating since early May as seawater temperatures rise daily. Latest reports show bleaching affecting approximately 80% of the coral.

Jittapol Tan-anusoron, a prominent Trang tourism businessman who filmed the coral bleaching near Le Dunk Libong Resort at Haad Lang Khao beach on Libong Island after tidal waters receded, reports that the affected corals are primarily shallow-water species including rock corals, staghorn corals, and brain corals.

He predicts that if May passes without significant rainfall or temperature decrease, bleaching could expand to over 90% of the reef. "Within the next two weeks, bleaching will likely spread throughout Haad Lang Khao. Shallow corals, especially during low tide when intense sunlight and heat beat down, experience water temperatures like they're being boiled. Two years ago we had bleaching too, but nature recovered quickly in 4-5 months. This year it's critical—if rain doesn't come soon to cool the water, it will worsen severely. All the coral will bleach, and marine life won't enter the area because the water is too hot, the coral dies, and there's no food from algae covering the reef," he warned.

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National

South Korea Blacklists Four Thai Provinces, Bans Agricultural and Fishing Labor Imports Throughout 2025

South Korea has blacklisted four northeastern Thai provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham—banning the import of agricultural and fishing workers for the entire year of 2025. The action follows incidents of Thai workers fleeing their employers under seasonal work visa agreements. Thailand's Department of Employment has confirmed the blacklist measure, which takes effect from January 1 through December 31, 2025.

12 May Khaosod

South Korea has blacklisted four Thai provinces, banning agricultural and fishing labor imports throughout 2025, according to confirmation from Thailand's Department of Employment. On May 12, 2025, Thailand's Anti-Fake News Center confirmed that South Korea has added four Thai provinces to its blacklist, prohibiting the import of seasonal agricultural and fishing workers (E-8 visas) for the entire year of 2025. The Department of Employment verified this news on May 11, 2025.

The action stems from cases of Thai workers engaged in seasonal agricultural and fishing work under bilateral labor agreements who fled their employers. These workers were sent from four northeastern provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham. In response, the South Korean government implemented blacklist measures against workers who violated employment contracts and suspended all worker imports from these four provinces for one year, from January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Those interested in working abroad can find information about applications, schedules, and application procedures on the Thai Overseas Employment Administration website at doe.go.th/overseas or on their Facebook page: Thai Overseas Employment Administration. For additional information, contact provincial employment offices or Bangkok employment offices (Areas 1-10) under the Thai Overseas Employment Administration at telephone number 02-245-6708 or hotline 1506, extension 2, Department of Employment.

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