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.

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.

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.

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.."

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.

On May 5th, 2569, 47-year-old Ms. Punya reported that her 15-year-old son, Bhumi, and five friends were hit by a sedan traveling at high speed while riding a motorcycle with a sidecar to cut grass for cattle. The collision left Bhumi with severe injuries requiring amputation of his right leg, while another friend suffered a broken leg. The accident occurred on Lopburi Ramesuan Road heading into Hat Yai in Bang Klam District, Songkhla Province, on the evening of May 1st.

Ms. Punya tearfully explained that her son had just received his quota for admission to Haad Yai Technical College, a source of family pride. Bhumi had told his mother, "I've made your dream come true," and planned to work part-time to help pay his tuition. Just days before the accident, he had even prepared a work shirt to show his mother.

On the day of the incident, as the five teenagers rode the motorcycle sidecar to cut grass, a sedan traveling at high speed struck them from behind with tremendous force. Ms. Punya described the horrific scene: "The first image I saw was my son lying on the road, his right leg broken and twisted forward, bleeding heavily. I went into shock. I could only think one thing: will my son be able to go to college? All his dreams ended right there."

Doctors had to amputate Bhumi's right leg due to a complete rupture of the main artery. When he regained consciousness and realized his leg was gone, he could only point and communicate his devastation.

Yothin Songdech, owner of a nearby auto repair shop, revealed CCTV footage showing the sedan traveling at an estimated speed of at least 150 km/h. The impact severed the motorcycle sidecar in two places, and the sedan veered off course, colliding with five customer vehicles parked in front of the shop before plunging into a drainage ditch.

Ms. Punya disclosed that the driver, 24-year-old Mr. Wad, showed no remorse or apology when he visited Bhumi in the hospital, deepening her concerns about whether justice will be served.