National

MCOT Board Unanimously Votes Prof. Dr. Veerasak Purivirojkul as New Board Chairman

Chulalongkorn University rector Prof. Dr. Veerasak Purivirojkul was unanimously appointed chairman of Thailand's public broadcaster MCOT on May 7, bringing AI-driven communication expertise to transform the network into a "Learning Station"

7 May Khaosod

The board of directors of MCOT Public Company Limited unanimously appointed Prof. Dr. Veerasak Purivirojkul, rector of Chulalongkorn University and chairman of the Association of University Administrators of Thailand (AUAT), as the new chairman of MCOT on May 7, 2025.

The board expressed confidence in his broad vision and expertise in modern AI-driven communication strategy, which will serve as a critical mechanism to help MCOT navigate changing consumer behavior and compete effectively with foreign platforms.

Prof. Dr. Veerasak is a distinguished scholar combining academic expertise with international-level business management experience. He holds degrees from leading Thai universities Chulalongkorn and Thammasat, a master's degree from Yale University, and a doctorate from Oxford University. He has worked with global organizations including IBM, P&G, and Hakuhodo.

Currently, he serves as chairman of the Association of Southeast Asian Institutions of Higher Learning (ASAIHL) and chairman of the ASEM LLL Hub, both internationally recognized organizations. He also pioneered the establishment of Chula XL (Extension and Lifelong Learning), a new college integrating knowledge across all disciplines and systematically connecting with people of all ages to support social and labor market changes.

With his comprehensive experience spanning both academia and media business, his appointment is seen as a crucial turning point for MCOT's adaptation to a new era, elevating the national broadcaster's role to serve as "a mechanism for creating learning opportunities" and "a true driving force for society."

Upon taking office, Prof. Dr. Veerasak announced an urgent policy to revitalize the business by transforming Channel 9, MCOT HD, and all affiliated media into a "Learning Station" that integrates all platforms to develop professional skills and knowledge for Thais of all ages, while creating sustainable economic opportunities for the nation.

Prof. Dr. Veerasak is the second university rector to serve as MCOT board chairman. The first was Prof. Surapol Nitikraipetch, former rector of Thammasat University, who served in the position from 2008 to 2011.

No. 01 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Breaking

Heavy Rain Causes Roof Leaks at Surat Thani Hospital, Staff and Patients Scramble

Severe roof leaks flooded Surat Thani Hospital during heavy rain on May 7, affecting patients and staff in both an aging OPD building and a newly constructed special ward.

7 May Khaosod

Heavy rain in Surat Thani city caused significant roof leaks at Surat Thani Hospital at 1:30 PM on May 7, 2025, with water pouring down like an open faucet and affecting both staff and patients receiving care.

A Facebook page named 'Mon Mai Surat Thani' posted a video of water cascading into the hospital, appealing for help and expressing concern for hospital personnel and patients during the heavy rainfall in the city at that time.

The page later noted that the hospital's 2-story OPD building is very old and has been in use for a long time, with roof leaks occurring after just half an hour of rain. Commenters suggested this is not surprising and that urgent renovations may be necessary until a new building can be constructed. However, they also noted that the new 7-story special ward building is also experiencing leaks, which is concerning.

The hospital is expected to issue a clarification statement regarding the situation.

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National

Sansiri Reveals Dividend-Receiving Stock Investors Flocking to Buy Townhouses as Investment, Highlighting 7–9% Returns

Stock dividend investors are increasingly buying Sansiri townhouses as investment properties, attracted by 7–9% annual rental yields that far exceed bank interest rates. Prime locations near airports and international schools in Bangkok are

7 May Khaosod

A new phenomenon is emerging in the real estate market as Sansiri reports that over the past two months, dividend-receiving stock investors have increasingly turned to purchasing townhouses as investments to build wealth through tangible assets. The developer emphasizes properties in the 15–20 million baht price range for rental income generation, with Sansiri's townhouse projects offering rental yields of 7–9% annually—significantly higher than bank interest rates. The hottest locations are Bangkok Kriteadium and Rama 9–Suvarnabhumi zones, which benefit from proximity to international schools and airports, attracting diverse foreign tenants.

Phattharapring Karun, marketing director for Sansiri's townhouse projects, revealed that this interesting trend has become clearly visible over the past two months. Investors receiving dividend payments are increasingly purchasing residential real estate to generate ongoing rental income, viewing it as a way to build wealth through tangible assets with greater certainty than stock market investments.

"These investors are taking their dividend payments and purchasing assets to rent out for continuous income," Phattharapring explained. "Beyond owning the property itself, they also receive regular rental cash flow."

These investors primarily focus on the 15–20 million baht price range. Sansiri's townhouse projects offer average rental yields of 7–9% annually. For example, with a monthly mortgage payment of approximately 3,500 baht per million baht borrowed, rental rates can reach 5,000–6,000 baht monthly, clearly demonstrating strong investment returns.

The highest rental rates are found in the Bangkok Kriteadium and Rama 9–Suvarnabhumi zones, benefiting from proximity to international schools and Suvarnabhumi Airport. Primary tenants are expatriates conducting business or enrolling their children in schools, with increasing nationality diversity covering European, Asian, and other regional groups, rather than concentrating in a single demographic as in the past.

Phattharapring also revealed Sansiri's 2025 business plans: the company plans to launch 17 new townhouse projects worth 25 billion baht combined, spanning Bangkok and two other provinces, featuring single detached homes, duplexes, and townhomes to meet diverse market demands.

Beyond direct sales teams, Sansiri also utilizes real estate agents as sales channels, particularly in areas with strong rental and investment potential, attracting greater agent participation.

Regarding sales performance for the first four months of this year, Sansiri's average monthly townhouse sales reached 2 billion baht. The first quarter saw particularly strong response from four newly launched projects, with all first phases selling out completely, including two Narasiri projects (Narasiri Borommarat Chinnada and Narasiri Victor) and two Anasiri projects (Anasiri Rama 5–Sirinthorn and Anasiri Srinakarin–Praeksa 2), signaling positive market sentiment.

"The company has set a 2025 sales target of approximately 21 billion baht, with an average monthly sales rate of around 2 billion baht. By the end of the first quarter, cumulative sales reached approximately 8 billion baht, remaining on track with our targets," Phattharapring stated.

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National

General Decha Implements Sports Science to Elevate Thai National Cycling Team Performance

Thailand's cycling association is implementing comprehensive sports science training for its national team ahead of the Asian Games, using blood lactate analysis and personalized coaching to boost performance across road, mountain bike, tra

7 May Khaosod

General Decha Hemkrasri, Chairman of the Cycling Association of Thailand, has announced that the association is implementing comprehensive sports science methodology in training the Thai national cycling team for the 20th Asian Games in Japan. The program covers all disciplines including anatomy, physiology, nutrition, psychology, biomechanics, sports medicine, and sports technology as part of the association's ongoing commitment to apply sports science across all dimensions of cycling.

Recently, the association received collaboration from the Sports Science Center under the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT) through the National Training Center project, with cycling as one of ten pioneering sports. Saksiam Saengwaisayasuk, Director of the National Training Center, led sports science experts in conducting blood lactate analysis of Thai national cyclists in road and mountain bike categories at Chateau de Khao Yai hotel in Nakhon Ratchasima province, the Thai cycling team's training camp.

Based on the blood analysis results, road coach Phuchoong Sailudomsilp and American mountain bike coach Robert Herber Jr. will design personalized training programs using the lactate data to develop athletes' endurance—the critical factor in road and mountain bike racing. Two additional lactate tests are planned at eight-week intervals to measure training progress and physical development.

For track and BMX racing, the sports science approach differs, focusing on strength and speed rather than endurance, emphasizing muscle development that directly impacts racing velocity. General Decha emphasized the association's comprehensive policy of continuously applying all branches of sports science—direct and indirect—to develop and improve the overall health and performance of Thai national athletes across training, competition, equipment, nutrition, psychology, and physical recovery. Medical affairs deputy director Phusit Fuengfu oversees the entire process, providing guidance to coaching teams while adapting protocols to each discipline's specific needs.

Additionally, the association continues its policy of sending young cyclists to compete internationally. Recently, Varutt Bpaekratok and Apisara Srimoungkol competed in Indonesian Track Cup 1 (April 30-May 2) and Indonesian Track Cup 2 (May 4-6) in track cycling, delivering satisfactory performances.

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Community

Behind the Quirky Catchphrases: How Mommy Chicky's Plinnyadaa Piraya Teaches Kids Through Comedy

Mommy Chicky creator Plinnyadaa Piraya transforms parenting struggles into viral comedy through quirky bird-call catchphrases and characters, finding that her humor provides comfort and strength to viewers facing hardship.

7 May Khaosod

The creator behind the viral birdcall catchphrases "nok ka-hung" and "nok wego-weloop," Plinnyadaa Piraya from the Mommy Chicky channel, shares how she turned parenting challenges into comedy. "We started making funny content from when I was pregnant," she explains. "We transformed real motherhood problems into humor—the stress, the crying baby, the tantrums—and turned them into entertainment."

One of her breakthrough videos featured the character "Uncle Cherd," which emerged spontaneously when her daughter Mali was around 7-8 months old. "I didn't know how to make her stop crying, so I just made up this name and called out to it, and she went silent. When I posted it, people found it hilarious."

Regarding the origin of her signature phrases, Plinnyadaa says some came from social media trends she adapted, like "wego-weloop," which she turned into "nok wego-weloop." Others, like "nok ka-hung," she created herself. "The terms might not have real meaning—sometimes I just mix sounds together like Brian's relatives," she laughs. "But the overall message is about mothering and boundaries."

When discussing the impact of her content, Plinnyadaa becomes emotional: "When people comment, I read them. At first, people felt sorry for me, then for my daughter. But what really touches me are messages from people going through difficult times—cancer patients, overwhelmed mothers, people struggling mentally—saying my videos brought them joy and strength. That's when I realized what we're doing matters beyond just making people laugh. It has real value." She can be followed on TikTok @Mommy_chicky, Instagram @Mommy_chickyy, and Facebook @Mommy Chicky.

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National

Heart-Pounding at Every Turn: Chongqing's Most Treacherous Zigzag Road with 18 Hairpin Bends

Chongqing's Lingbai Xi Road features 18 hairpin bends and 70-degree slopes across just 453 meters, making it one of China's most treacherous drives and a nightmare for any motorist brave enough to attempt it.

7 May Khaosod

Who can handle it first? Chongqing's most extreme zigzag road features 18 sharp hairpin bends, slopes reaching 70 degrees, and requires driving along narrow cliff faces that leave drivers breathless—a nightmare for drivers worldwide.

China ranks among the world's top countries for infrastructure development, from suspended highways spanning rivers to elevated expressways climbing steep mountain passes. Yet amid all this grandeur, one road stands out as every driver's nightmare: Lingbai Xi Road in Wuxi, Chongqing.

This route winds through a narrow canyon, hemmed in by massive rock cliffs on both sides. The serpentine path connects the small community of Tianping to the outside world. Though it appears ordinary at first glance, the terrain transforms it into anything but an ordinary road.

The total road length spans just 3.7 kilometers, running from Tianping village to Provincial Highway 201. However, the true highlight is the zigzag section measuring only 453 meters—packed with relentless hairpin bends like a maze on a mountainside.

Despite its short distance, this route's difficulty exceeds all expectations. Even experienced drivers must exercise maximum caution at every moment, as even a slight mistake could result in loss of control instantly.

Construction began in 2012 and paving was completed in 2019, designed to force slow driving with drivers carefully navigating each curve for maximum safety.

Another critical issue is the road's extreme narrowness, offering virtually no space to turn around. The road also features slopes reaching up to 70 degrees in some sections, demanding significant skill and concentration to navigate the vehicle safely.

Fortunately, Tianping has only about 137 residents from 37 households, so traffic remains light. This gives drivers more space and time to manage the complex curves.

However, Lingbai Xi Road restricts certain vehicles—trucks, buses, and large trailers are prohibited due to their inability to handle the narrow width and continuous hairpin bends. Even small vehicles must utilize specially designed curve-entrance areas, and on the steepest sections, first gear is recommended throughout to maintain safe control. This makes Lingbai Xi one of China's most challenging zigzag roads.

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National

Lao Lottery Today: May 7, 2569 Results - Check Your Winning Numbers

Lao government lottery results for May 7, 2569 were announced, with prize payouts ranging from 60 to 6,000 times the ticket value depending on the winning number category.

7 May Khaosod

Lao Lottery Today: May 7, 2569 Results - Check Your Winning Numbers

Complete results for the Lao government lottery (Pattana lottery) overseen by Laos' Ministry of Finance for May 7, 2569:

6-digit prize: XXXXXX 5-digit prize: XXXXX Last 4-digit prize: XXXX Last 3-digit prize: XXX Last 2-digit prize: XX

Lao Lottery Prize Rates and Payout Calculation

Lottery players can calculate winnings based on their ticket value in Kip as follows: 4-digit numbers: 6,000 times payout (example: 1,000 Kip ticket wins 6,000,000 Kip) 3-digit numbers: 500 times payout (example: 1,000 Kip ticket wins 500,000 Kip) 2-digit numbers: 60 times payout (example: 1,000 Kip ticket wins 60,000 Kip)

What is Lao Lottery or Pattana Lottery? What Time Are Results Announced?

The Lao lottery, officially called Pattana lottery, is operated by the Pattana Lottery State Enterprise under the supervision of Laos' Ministry of Finance. It is the legally sanctioned government lottery of Laos.

Lao Lottery Schedule and Broadcast Channels

Draw dates: Monday through Friday; the 5/45 Pattana lottery draws on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Broadcast time: Live coverage begins at 8:00 PM Thailand time Broadcast channels: Lao National Radio and Lao National Television Channel 1 (LNTV)

How to Check Lao Lottery: 6-Digit, Last 4-Digit, Dream Guide Numbers, and Animal Name Numbers

The Lao lottery system begins with drawing one 6-digit number, which is then separated into multiple prize categories based on regional preferences. The most popular format uses the last 4-digit numbers as the primary basis. Additionally, there are dream guide lottery (4/40) and animal name number lotteries, which are unique features of gambling in Laos.

No. 07 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Ancient drums and skeletons discovered at Phetchaburi archaeological site

Archaeologists in Phetchaburi unearthed eight 1,500-year-old skeletons with bronze helmets and gold ornaments at Don Yai Thong, alongside six rare Dong Son bronze drums never before found in the province. The high-status burials suggest adv

7 May Khaosod

PHETCHABURI — On May 7, 2026, residents in Phetchaburi province gathered to make merit and pay respects to eight ancient skeletons discovered at the Don Yai Thong archaeological site, believed to date back 1,500 to 2,000 years. The ceremony took place in Ban Don Phlap village, Samo Phlue subdistrict, Ban Lat district, where locals offered food to Buddhist monks and dedicated merit to the deceased. Officials present included Phetchaburi Provincial Administrative Organisation President Chaiya Angkinan, Ban Lat District Chief Preecha Ananworanat, and Nipa Sangkhonakhin, director of Fine Arts Office 1 in Ratchaburi.

Archaeologists from Fine Arts Office 1 began excavations after discovering two ancient bronze drums in February in a rice field. These "Mahorathuk" drums are believed to originate from the Dong Son culture in northern Vietnam and later spread throughout the Suvarnabhumi region. No similar drums had previously been found in Phetchaburi or Prachuap Khiri Khan provinces, making this discovery significant. Excavations under archaeologist Kannika Premjai began on February 9, 2026, and have continued for nearly three months.

Initial findings included damaged bronze drum fragments, pottery, bronze containers, human leg bones, and gold jewelry, which prompted the team to expand their search. Between March and April, archaeologists uncovered eight skeletons laid flat on their backs in rows, some overlapping each other. All eight skeletons had bronze head ornaments resembling helmets placed over their skulls, and were accompanied by bronze artifacts, stone beads, glass beads, and pottery. The first skeleton discovered contained a remarkable collection of gold ornaments including bracelets, rings, pendants, beads, and earrings. Four additional bronze drums were later found, bringing the total to six.

Archaeologists believe these discoveries reveal prehistoric burial practices dating back approximately 1,500 to 2,000 years, before cremation became common practice. The presence of gold jewelry, bronze artifacts, and bronze drums indicates the buried individuals held high social status rather than being ordinary villagers. Experts noted that the intricate gold ornaments resembled Indian craftsmanship, suggesting the community had trade connections with external civilizations. Nipa expressed gratitude to local residents, officials, educational institutions, and landowners for supporting the excavation. However, she warned that heavy moisture, underground water, and the approaching rainy season were creating significant challenges for the ongoing work.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

Regional

Israeli embassy in Thailand warns citizens over tougher law enforcement crackdown in Phuket

Phuket authorities are intensifying enforcement against foreigners, with the Israeli embassy warning its citizens to strictly comply with Thai laws or face severe penalties including visa revocation and court prosecution, particularly for t

7 May Khaosod

The Embassy of Israel in Thailand has warned Israeli citizens in Phuket to strictly comply with Thai laws after local authorities reportedly agreed to intensify enforcement measures targeting foreigners on the island.

In a public advisory addressed to Israeli nationals, the embassy said a discussion among Phuket provincial officials had resulted in plans for stricter enforcement against foreign residents and tourists.

"Please, for your own good, be sure to act according to the procedures and the laws of the place," the embassy wrote in the notice.

According to the advisory, authorities have instructed all relevant agencies to adopt "aggressive enforcement" measures and strictly apply existing laws and regulations.

The embassy said foreigners who violate the law could face the harshest penalties allowed under Thai law as part of a deterrence campaign.

The notice also highlighted efforts to increase awareness among tourists regarding local rules and legal requirements, saying officials would place greater emphasis on explaining Thai laws to visitors.

In serious cases, authorities may coordinate with immigration officials to revoke visas or residence permits, the advisory added.

The embassy specifically warned Israeli citizens about traffic-related offences, particularly driving without valid licences.

It said authorities would adopt a "zero tolerance" approach, adding that offenders caught driving without licences would be prosecuted in court without exception.

The advisory did not specify what prompted the discussions among Phuket officials or whether the measures specifically targeted any nationality.

However, Phuket authorities have in recent years increased scrutiny of foreign-related offences amid growing concerns over illegal businesses, visa overstays, reckless driving, public disturbances and crimes involving tourists and expatriates.

Driving offences involving foreign tourists have also become a recurring issue in Phuket, particularly cases involving motorcycle rentals and visitors driving without valid international or Thai licences.

Under Thai law, foreigners driving motorcycles or cars without proper licences can face fines, legal prosecution and insurance complications in the event of accidents. Serious offences may also affect immigration status or future visa applications.

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Doctors Warn: Three Morning Habits for Men Damage the Liver Faster Than Alcohol

Doctors warn that three common morning habits—skipping breakfast, smoking, and intense exercise—can damage the liver as severely as alcohol consumption, with a Chinese man's case revealing fatty liver disease despite avoiding alcohol entire

7 May Khaosod

Doctors Warn: Three Morning Habits for Men Damage the Liver Faster Than Alcohol

Compiled by Sanook Online News Team May 7, 2025

According to foreign media reports, when people think of behaviors that harm the liver, alcohol consumption usually comes to mind first. However, certain habits performed regularly in the morning can damage the liver just as severely.

At 6:30 a.m., 52-year-old Zhou from China wakes up and goes through his normal daily routine before starting his day. Although he doesn't drink alcohol and doesn't stay up late, his annual health checkup shocked him when it revealed abnormally high liver enzymes (ALT and GGT) and fatty liver disease.

Doctors analyzed that the main cause stemmed from behaviors he performed regularly every morning to energize his body: smoking, drinking strong tea, and exercising. Fortunately, Zhou had some good health habits, including avoiding alcohol, so his liver hadn't suffered severe damage and could still be treated.

Zhou's case serves as a warning, especially for men, about morning behaviors that many overlook but are silently damaging the liver. Even without touching alcohol throughout life, one can still risk serious liver disease or even liver cancer if engaging in these three daily morning habits:

1. Skipping Breakfast Generally, men place less importance on diet than women, whether due to rushing, work stress, waking late, or health negligence. Many skip breakfast despite it being one of the behaviors silently "eroding" the liver.

Experts note that skipping breakfast can lead to nutrient and protein deficiency, factors that cause fat accumulation in the liver. After sleeping all night, the body lacks energy. Without breakfast, it cannot handle daily activities normally.

During this time, the body draws glycogen from the liver and stimulates insulin production. Without sufficient food for metabolism, the liver must work harder. If this continues for extended periods, it may lead to liver dysfunction and disease. Additionally, prolonged breakfast skipping or long gaps between breakfast and lunch harms the gallbladder, as bile remains too long and becomes concentrated, potentially forming gallstones. Though not immediately apparent, this behavior accumulates long-term liver damage.

2. Smoking Immediately After Waking Many men smoke immediately after waking to feel refreshed or relieve nicotine cravings after sleeping all night. Some even use cigarettes instead of breakfast or as an energy boost before starting the day.

However, chemicals in cigarettes damage not just the lungs but also the liver, since the liver detoxifies the body. Smoking makes the liver work harder and increases damage risk, especially on an empty stomach in the morning.

Doctors explain that after sleep, the liver is still in recovery and detoxification mode, making it weakest and most vulnerable to damage. Meanwhile, the body lacks nutrients and immunity is low.

Additionally, metabolism is slower than normal in the morning after waking. Smoking during this time allows toxins to enter the body faster and more severely, making the liver work harder and increasing risk of liver weakness and disease with continuous exposure.

No. 10 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

AIS Reports Net Profit of 13,496 Million Baht, Advancing Adaptation Across All Dimensions

Thailand's leading telecom AIS reported first-quarter net profit of 13.5 billion baht while expanding 5G networks and launching new AI services across mobile, broadband and enterprise segments.

7 May Khaosod

AIS announced its first quarter 2025 operating results, maintaining its commitment to sustainable business growth as Thailand's leading provider of intelligent infrastructure and premium digital technology. The company reported total revenue of 58,197 million baht and net profit of 13,496 million baht, driven by its focus on product quality and digital experiences tailored to diverse customer needs, even amid volatile economic conditions domestically and internationally.

Throughout 2025, AIS is adapting to manage multifaceted changes while strengthening the nation's digital infrastructure foundation, encompassing intelligent mobile networks and home internet, cloud services, and data centers. The company is integrating innovation and AI to elevate customer experience and continuously drive industry transformation, including launching the "AIS 5G-ADVANCED" connectivity standard—Southeast Asia's first—alongside smarter, faster mobile networks supporting the AI era. The company also unveiled AISpace, a unified AI service platform for Thais, and is promoting digital skills development through the "Cyber Confident AI Literacy" curriculum to create sustainable value across all sectors. Long-term growth is being pursued through new business ventures including retail, entertainment and sports content platforms, and digital finance, while maintaining efficient cost management.

Mobile Business: Growth from high-quality customer base on nationwide 5G intelligent network The company serves 46.9 million mobile subscribers, up 170,200 lines from Q4 2024, driven by focus on premium customers and SIM solutions expansion. Churn management remains efficient on the 5G network covering over 95% of Thailand's population. 5G users increased to 18.5 million lines, growing 643,100 lines from Q4 2024, with mobile business revenue growing 7.6% year-over-year.

Home Internet Business: Reinforcing broadband leadership through superior home internet innovation and digital experience AIS 3BB FIBRE3 home internet customers grew by 63,400 subscribers from Q4 2024, reaching 5.3 million total subscribers, reflecting confidence in network quality and enhanced digital services. The company offers packages like Super FAST and Home FibreLAN combined with popular entertainment and sports content including EPL, Thai League, Bundesliga, NBA, and NFL. Home internet business revenue grew 8.7% year-over-year.

Enterprise Customer Services: Transforming Thai business through digital infrastructure and intelligent solutions supporting all connectivity needs Despite economic volatility, enterprise services revenue grew 1.7% year-over-year, driven by data connectivity networks, 5G solutions, and data center services supporting Thai organizations' needs while supporting the country's development toward becoming a Sustainable Nation through comprehensive digital infrastructure.

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