National

Pheu Thai Party Set to Nominate Dr. Joe Chaivatana for Bangkok Governor, Official Announcement Planned for 5 PM on May 5

Pheu Thai Party is set to announce its Bangkok Governor candidate on May 5, with Dr. Joe Chaivatana emerging as the leading choice among several potential nominees considered by the party.

27 Apr Khaosod

The Pheu Thai Party confirmed on April 27, 2569, that it is nearing a final decision on its Bangkok Governor candidate, with an official announcement scheduled for 5 PM on May 5 at the Siam Museum in Bangkok. Party executives have approached multiple individuals to serve as the party's mayoral candidate, including lawyer Piangpanop Bounkam and Sri Chandra cosmetics executive Raveesh Hanausothaya, though neither has formally committed. Earlier this week, the party also approached Wirojn Lakshanaadit, a former list MP and deputy party leader, but he declined. Among those approached but who have not yet formally accepted or rejected are Vorapop Viriyarojarun, a former list MP and key economic figure in the party, and Chaivatana Sthavarwichit (Dr. Joe), a list MP and former deputy party leader for foreign affairs. As of this afternoon (April 27), party leadership confirmed that there is greater than 50% likelihood that Chaivatana will be selected as the Pheu Thai Party's Bangkok Governor candidate.

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National

SEGA Partners with CP Group to Expand Entertainment Business in Asia

Japanese gaming giant SEGA and Thailand's CP Group have signed a partnership to develop entertainment content and intellectual properties across Southeast Asia, leveraging SEGA's gaming franchises like Sonic the Hedgehog with CP Group's reg

27 Apr Khaosod

Studied expansion of global IP with framework set for future commercial development April 27, 2025 – CP Group, Thailand's leading business conglomerate, has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with SEGA Corporation, the Japanese global gaming and entertainment leader, to explore entertainment business opportunities in Thailand and Southeast Asia, including assessing possibilities for future commercial development. The collaboration aims to combine the strengths of both organizations, with SEGA bringing world-class intellectual properties and long-accumulated content creation expertise, while CP Group contributes its diverse business ecosystem and strong regional network. Together, they will develop and present new forms of entertainment experiences tailored to Thai and Southeast Asian consumers. Under the MOU, both parties will conduct phased cooperation, initially focusing on exploring commercial development possibilities from SEGA's world-class intellectual properties such as Sonic the Hedgehog and Angry Birds, while establishing a collaboration structure to support sustainable long-term growth. This will connect content potential with CP Group's comprehensive business ecosystem spanning over 20 countries across multiple industries including food, agriculture, retail, telecommunications, and integrated media networks. In terms of consumer reach, CP Group has strong media platform capabilities, particularly TrueVisions, which plays a crucial role in presenting world-class content and animation to Thai audiences through both pay-TV and OTT platforms, serving as a key mechanism for expanding IP into broader entertainment experiences. Additionally, both organizations will jointly explore opportunities to develop new intellectual properties for the Asian region, expand business through licensing and distribution networks, and potentially extend collaboration to markets beyond Thailand in the future. Haruki Satomi, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SEGA Corporation, stated: "We are very pleased to have reached this cooperation agreement with CP Group, which has strong business foundations in Thailand and Asia. This collaboration will accelerate the expansion of SEGA's IP globally and create new forms of entertainment experiences for the Asian region and ultimately audiences worldwide." Supakij Chiaravanont, Chairman of CP Group, said: "We are delighted to have reached this framework with SEGA, an organization that continuously creates world-renowned intellectual properties. This cooperation will provide an opportunity for both parties to combine strengths to develop new IPs and bring Asian region's culture and values to the world's attention." Long-term plans include expanding cooperation across multiple dimensions to support market growth in Thailand, Southeast Asia, and globally through CP Group's business networks and media distribution platforms, particularly TrueVisions, which plays an important role in presenting world-class animation content and aims to become a hub for Japanese content fan communities in Southeast Asia.

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Weather

Meteorological Department Issues Warning: Severe Thunderstorms to Batter Thailand April 29-May 1, Lists High and Moderate Risk Provinces

Severe thunderstorms with strong winds, hail, and heavy rain will strike Thailand from April 29 to May 1, beginning in the North and Northeast before moving to central regions and Bangkok. The Thai Meteorological Department warns residents

27 Apr Khaosod

The Thai Meteorological Department issued its first severe thunderstorm warning (41/2569) on April 27, 2025, affecting northern Thailand from April 29-May 1. Thunderstorms with strong gusty winds, hail, heavy rainfall in some areas, and possible lightning strikes are expected to begin in the North, Northeast, and East regions before moving to central Thailand, Bangkok, and surrounding areas. A high-pressure system and cold air mass from China will interact with hot conditions in northern Thailand, creating favorable storm conditions.

Residents are urged to avoid open areas, large trees, unstable structures, and weak signs. Farmers should reinforce fruit trees and prepare measures to protect crops, livestock, and agricultural operations. Residents should monitor updates from the Meteorological Department via their website (http://www.tmd.go.th) or phone lines 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182, available 24 hours. The next warning will be issued on April 28 at 5:00 AM.

High-Risk Provinces: April 29: Northern provinces (Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Phitsanulok, Phetchabun); Northeastern provinces (Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Si Sa Ket, Ubon Ratchathani)

April 30: Northern provinces (Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lampun, Lamphang, Sukhothai, Tak, Kamphaeng Phet); Northeastern provinces (Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, Surin); Central provinces (Nakhon Sawan, Lopburi, Saraburi, Ayutthaya); Eastern provinces (Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Sa Kaew, Chachoengsao, Chon Buri)

May 1: Moderate risk across northern, northeastern, central, and eastern regions including Bangkok and surrounding provinces

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National

20 Million Thais Celebrating! Treasury Approves Half Plus Program Disbursing 4,000 Baht Per Person, Including Welfare Card Holders

The Thai government has approved the Half Plus program, disbursing 4,000 baht each to over 20 million people starting in June, with welfare card holders included for the first time in the relief initiative.

27 Apr Khaosod

The Treasury has greenlit the Half Plus program offering 4,000 baht to over 20 million people—the largest beneficiary group in program history—and confirmed that welfare card holders will be included. On April 27, government sources revealed that Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas has completed consultations with Finance Ministry officials on the Half Plus program. More than 20 million people will receive simultaneous benefits, with registration opening in May and payments starting in June at 1,000 baht monthly for four months. "Deputy PM Ekniti has finalized the Half Plus program framework, covering over 20 million beneficiaries ensuring universal assistance regardless of tax status," a source stated. "The government will cover 60 percent of costs while recipients pay 40 percent as an energy crisis relief measure." Funding sources are being prepared through multiple channels, pending finalization of unused 2024 budget allocations by April 30 to enact the necessary budget transfer legislation. The Half Plus program will run alongside additional payments to approximately 14 million existing welfare card holders, each receiving an additional 4,000 baht distributed monthly at 1,000 baht increments, though recipients pay full product prices. Both programs fall under the broader "Thailand Helps Thailand Plus" relief package. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul previously noted this Half Plus iteration offers the largest benefits and highest beneficiary count yet, as citizens face severe energy crisis impacts with recovery expected to take longer than typical economic downturns.

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National

KATPRO: Thailand's Professional Kickboxing Championship Goes Global from Bangkok to Uzbekistan

Thailand's Kickboxing Association launched KATPRO, the country's first professional championship under WAKO recognition, with its inaugural tournament in Bangkok drawing elite athletes from eight nations and expanding internationally to Uzb

27 Apr Khaosod

Kickboxing is surging in popularity worldwide, and Thailand is riding this wave. The Kickboxing Association of Thailand has spearheaded a movement to transform the sport's landscape, extending beyond traditional competitive excellence into professional sports development. Through collaboration with government agencies, private sector partners, and WAKO (World Association of Kickboxing Organizations), they established "KATPRO PROFESSIONAL KICKBOXING"—Thailand's first comprehensive professional kickboxing championship.

KATPRO stands for Kickboxing Association of Thailand Professional. This new platform aims to elevate Thai kickboxers to international standards under WAKO recognition, creating pathways to world rankings and prestigious events like Glory and K-1 Japan.

The inaugural tournament at Bangkok's Ves 1 Sports Complex was a major success, featuring elite athletes from 8 nations: Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Israel, Iraq, Estonia, and Thailand. The competition uses K-1 Rules, emphasizing speed, precision, and technical excellence. Athletes must remain aggressive throughout three intense rounds, with no time-wasting or clinching tactics allowed—a format that thrills fans seeking authentic, high-level action.

Beyond the sporting achievement, KATPRO has elevated production standards with professional lighting, sound, and cinematography to appeal to younger audiences and establish watching kickboxing as a lifestyle choice.

Building on this success, KATPRO expanded internationally with its second tournament held in Fergana, Uzbekistan on April 24th at the Samarkand Sports Center, maintaining the league system format and attracting diverse international competitors.

Dr. Suprannee Kuptasa, former director of Thailand's National Sports Development Fund, emphasized that KATPRO's recognition by WAKO represents a significant milestone for Thai kickboxing's development.

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Community

Lucky and Unlucky Days – Which Zodiac Signs Have Good Investment Prospects Now, and Which May Be Changing Residence or Vehicles

This astrology forecast for April 28, 2026 predicts varying fortunes across all zodiac signs, with Taurus enjoying particularly favorable prospects for investments and business growth. Aries, Leo, and Capricorn face more challenging periods with potential obstacles in work, travel, and household matters. The reading advises caution in financial decisions, construction projects, and interpersonal relationships during this time period.

27 Apr Khaosod

Lucky and Unlucky Days Tuesday, April 28, 2026 Astrologer Bussapon Lackhana

Aries Those with wooden houses may face termite problems today, or receive help from others that later abandons the work unfinished. Avoid permanent construction at this time as you'll encounter contractor disputes. Any undertaking faces petty obstacles and work complications. Family members won't cooperate and may even obstruct your efforts.

Taurus Your mind is clear today, and you can see new income opportunities ahead. You're enthusiastic about building beneficial networks. All types of gambling and business investments show promising trends now. Business negotiations and official matters proceed smoothly, though minor home issues persist.

Gemini If you're renovating your home, don't let anyone leave items with you, and avoid using others' belongings in your house. Your finances and money-helping resources will increase steadily, bringing income from multiple sources. You may relocate your cash storage. Ailing friends will recover and bring good luck your way.

Cancer You're likely neglecting financial and profit matters as insignificant. Friends visiting your home or household members may split into factions or argue quietly. You'll travel frequently or have frequent travel obligations. Business dealings won't see much success.

Leo Be cautious of disputes with foreigners you're involved with. Don't plan travel itineraries for others, as you may end up going yourself. Accidents or health weakening are possible. Be careful with property and household staff after May ends.

Virgo You're gaining more household help or acquiring competent servants. Thieves may eye your possessions, so tighten security now. Key personnel at work will change, but negotiations may become toxic to your work. Miscommunications during conversations are easily possible.

Libra Exciting events occur in your household today. Someone shows you unrefined gems that seem worthless. Long-distance travel causes exhaustion and possible illness. You may feel anxious about elderly household members. Your partner introduces their siblings to you more. New coworkers enter your work environment.

Scorpio You're increasingly concerned with children and grandchildren's welfare. Watch for accidents involving those in your care. Rest when appropriate. Finances show some income but often less than expenses. Keep damaged items within sight. Elderly female neighbors will share food with you.

Sagittarius You meet a partner or contract holder with high destiny and ability, or with special skills in something. Their star shines brightly now. They'll bring considerable benefits and you recognize their importance greatly. However, be very cautious after May ends.

Capricorn You often stay among intense-tempered people or near areas with violence. Household members indulge in gambling or face psychological pressure. Leaving work to travel far risks losing your job position. Expressing personal opinions or self-confidence publicly isn't advisable.

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Community

Sacred Amulet Chronicles – Luang Pho La First Edition Coins

This article examines rare Buddhist amulets and coins from revered Thai monks, detailing their historical significance, physical characteristics, and current market value among collectors. Featured amulets include first edition coins from Luang Pho La and other respected monks, many of which are now extremely rare and command premium prices. The piece highlights the spiritual and collectible value of these sacred objects within Thai Buddhist culture.

27 Apr Khaosod

"The Buddha is the greatest healer of mental illness in the world," according to teachings from Luang Pho Cha Suphattho of Wat Nong Pa Phong in Ubon Ratchathani. The article covers several renowned Buddhist masters and their amulet creations, including Luang Pho Bai Thammachiato of Wat Chong Lom, whose copper coins with gold plating from 1918 (B.E. 2461) are now extremely rare and command high prices. These coins feature a half-length portrait with distinctive shoulder lines, surrounded by rice sheaves, with Khmer script on the reverse. Luang Pho La Punnachee of Wat Phi Sri in Sing Buri province created first edition portrait coins in 1925 (B.E. 2468), depicting the monk in meditation pose, which became so popular that counterfeits emerged. Luang Pu Thom Kalyanob, former provincial overseer of Sukhothai and former abbot of Wat Thammapaññarama, created oval-shaped portrait coins in 1977 (B.E. 2520) with limited production of no more than 5,000 pieces, now considered extremely rare. The article also covers a rectangular locket amulet created by disciples of Luang Pu Thon Pussavaro of Wat Phong Yang in Chachoengsao province to commemorate his 110th birthday in 2018 (B.E. 2561), containing sacred powder and gems alongside blessed powders from approximately 350 revered monks.

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Community

Sacred Objects News – Luang Pu Chan's Commemorative Medal BE 2521

This article chronicles the life of Luang Pu Chan Khemigo (Phra Thep Sitthacharya), a highly respected Dhammayut Buddhist monk from Nakhon Phanom Province who lived from 1924 to 1973. He established one of Thailand's first modern Thai language schools for monks and served as both temple abbot and provincial ecclesiastical chief, earning numerous royal ecclesiastical ranks. A commemorative medal was issued in BE 2521 in honor of his contributions to Buddhist education and temple development.

27 Apr Khaosod

Luang Pu Chan Khemigo, originally named Chan Suwanmacho, was born on Monday, December 5, 1924, at Ban Tha Uten in Mueang District, Nakhon Phanom Province. At age 10, following his father's illness and death, he ordained as a novice at Wat Phon Kaew under Phra Khanthi Kantiko as his preceptor. At age 19, he left the monastic life to pursue a trading business, but at age 20 in BE 2445, he returned to monastic practice at Wat Phon Kaew, receiving the name Khemigo.

In BE 2445, under guidance from Phra Achan Sao Kantasilo of Ubon Ratchathani, he was ordained as a Dhammayut monk at Wat Sri Ubol Ratanaram in Ubon Ratchathani. He traveled to practice meditation in the forests before settling at Wat Sri Thep Praditsaram in BE 2449, spending 7 Rains Retreats restoring the abandoned temple.

In BE 2453, he journeyed to Bangkok to pursue higher Buddhist studies under Somdet Phra Phutthakhosa Chao at Wat Thep Sirin Thrawat, where he studied Buddhist texts and Pali. He was appointed abbot of Wat Sri Thep Praditsaram and district ecclesiastical chief. In BE 2459, he established one of Thailand's first modern Thai language schools and Pali studies programs for monks and laypeople combined.

His monastic positions included: abbot of Wat Sri Thep Praditsaram (BE 2459), preceptor (BE 2460), and provincial chief monk of Nakhon Phanom (BE 2502). He received successive ecclesiastical ranks, culminating in the divine rank of Phra Thep Sitthacharya in BE 2502.

Luang Pu Chan passed away peacefully on February 2, 1973, at 08:00 AM, at the age of 92, having completed 72 Rains Retreats. Prior to the royal cremation ceremony at Wat Sri Thep Praditsaram, a commemorative medal was created in his honor in BE 2521, consisting of 99 silver medals and 10,000 bronze medals.

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National

AIS Launches AIS SPORT ACADEMY with Global Partners to Elevate Thailand's Sports Industry

AIS launched AIS SPORT ACADEMY on April 27, partnering with Chulalongkorn University, Germany's Bundesliga, and Thailand's Football Association to develop young athletes through training abroad and educational scholarships. The initiative a

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27 at the Thai Justice Institute, AIS announced a major strategic initiative to comprehensively elevate Thai sports. The company launched 'AIS SPORT ACADEMY' to develop the Thai sports industry holistically under the concept of 'People Power Creates Thai Sports Power.' Partnering with national and international allies including Chulalongkorn University, Bundesliga Germany, and the Football Association of Thailand, AIS aims to nurture young Thai athletes. The program will send selected youth to train at world-class football facilities in Germany while providing scholarships for education at Chulalongkorn University Demonstration School, developing excellence in both athletic skills and academics to create professional-level sports personnel.

Kantima Lerlertsayjuttharam, AIS Corporate Operations Executive Vice President, stated: 'AIS has always believed that people are the foundation of organizations and society. Through AIS Academy, we've developed personnel capabilities both internally and externally by upgrading digital skills and providing equal access to global knowledge.'

She continued: 'Building people is AIS's DNA. Today we're extending this model to sports, viewing it not merely as competition but as a crucial mechanism driving the nation. With over 10 million people in Thailand's sports ecosystem, we're committed to transforming AIS from merely a broadcast channel to a full supporter and developer of Thai sports. AIS SPORT ACADEMY represents our genuine commitment to providing the best for Thai society, operating as a serious institution because we firmly believe that strong people create strong sports, which creates a strong nation.'

Saiichol Sopmakudom, AIS Corporate Communications Director, explained: 'AIS SPORT ACADEMY recognizes sports as more than competition—as both an industry and powerful community. We've structured operations around three core pillars: creating opportunities to cultivate quality personnel, enhancing knowledge by transferring world-class skills, and professionalism to sustain career growth.'

AIS has partnered with Chulalongkorn University, Bundesliga, and the Football Association of Thailand to select young footballers for training in Germany while providing scholarships to Chulalongkorn's demonstration school. This demonstrates that Thai youth need not choose between academics and sports but can pursue both perfectly. These partnerships integrate sports, education, and opportunity to build a sustainable Thai sports ecosystem. Future steps include concrete operational developments.

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Tourism

Grand Night Festival in Saiburi: Experience the Complete Charm of Pattani at Wasukri Beach

The "PATTANI NIGHT FEST ON THE BEACH 2026" will take place on May 2-3 at Wasukri Beach in Saiburi District, celebrating Pattani's multicultural heritage and coastal traditions. The festival features international-standard KATPRO K-1 kickboxing matches, traditional fishing competitions, over 100 food vendors, and spectacular drone light shows. The event transforms traditional community activities into a major cultural tourism experience while promoting the region's maritime lifestyle and local wisdom.

27 Apr Khaosod

Mark your calendars for the "PATTANI NIGHT FEST ON THE BEACH 2026," a grand night festival showcasing everything remarkable about Pattani at Wasukri Beach in Saiburi District. Scheduled for May 2-3, 2026, and organized by Taluban Municipality, this event elevates traditional community activities into cultural tourism products. The festival aims to promote Pattani's multicultural heritage, coastal lifestyle, and long-standing local wisdom, particularly highlighting Saiburi District's deep connection to the sea across economic, social, and cultural dimensions. Traditional fishing is not merely the community's primary occupation but the foundation of their customs, beliefs, and identity. The Saiburi fishing competition therefore reflects the "culture of the sea" passed down through generations.

A major highlight is the international-standard KATPRO On The Beach Kickboxing competition, featuring professional-level K-1 rules matches—the same ruleset used at the KATPRO K1 event in Bangkok on April 11, 2026. The fast-paced, intense action emphasizes powerful punches, kicks, and knee strikes delivered by professional fighters against the scenic beachfront backdrop.

The festival also offers numerous activities for all visitors, including creative photo zones, over 100 food and beverage vendors, and spectacular closing events featuring drone light shows above Pattani's sky, demonstrations from entrepreneurs across three southern provinces (Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat), plus cultural performances and contemporary shows showcasing local youth talent.

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National

Diverse IT – Samsung Galaxy A57 and A37 5G: AI Smartphones with Premium Specs at Great Value

Samsung launches the Galaxy A57 5G and A37 5G with AI-powered features like voice transcription and enhanced object eraser, offering premium smartphone capabilities at affordable prices. The ultra-thin A57 model measures just 6.9mm thick wi

27 Apr Khaosod

Samsung, the world-renowned South Korean technology innovator, launches the Galaxy A57 5G and Galaxy A37 5G smartphones to bring cutting-edge mobile innovations to everyone at comprehensive price points. These new Galaxy A Series models reflect Samsung's commitment to making AI technology accessible to all through advanced user experiences at even more affordable prices. The standout capability comes from Awesome Intelligence, a powerful AI feature suite designed to simplify daily routines. The Galaxy A57 5G features a sleek, thin design with lightweight construction.

One of the most prominent new features is Voice Transcription, available on Galaxy A Series for the first time. Users can record audio through the Voice Recorder app, automatically converting speech to text and translating across multiple languages, making meeting reviews, lesson replays, and conversation data organization more convenient and efficient.

The popular Circle to Search with Google feature has been enhanced to identify multiple objects simultaneously. For example, when users find a style they like, they can search for details of each item—whether clothing or shoes—in a single search by simply circling around the outfit on screen.

AI Select also provides smart recommendations based on screen content, such as creating GIFs, saving images, or setting wallpapers. Users can now access this feature more conveniently through the Edge Panel. The Multi-Window Drag & Drop feature allows smooth content movement between apps, working with AI Select to enable faster multitasking in apps like Samsung Browser and Samsung Notes, where users can directly drag images into Samsung Notes and resize them as needed.

The Object Eraser feature has been improved to more precisely remove unwanted elements, especially at image edges, resulting in clearer, more natural-looking photos with minimal editing. The camera remains a standout feature of the Galaxy A series, with upgrades delivering vibrant, sharp images in all lighting conditions—from bright to low light.

Both models feature a three-camera rear system for enhanced photography flexibility. The 5-megapixel macro camera captures detailed close-up shots, revealing surface details invisible to the naked eye. The 12MP ultra-wide camera on the Galaxy A57 5G captures wider angles, ideal for landscapes and group photos. For parties and night photography, the enhanced Nightography feature produces bright, sharp low-light images with natural color.

The new Galaxy A Series features refined design that seamlessly blends sleekness with everyday practicality. The Galaxy A57 5G is remarkably thin at just 6.9 millimeters and weighs 179 grams—0.5mm thinner and 19 grams lighter than its predecessor—making it comfortable to hold and easy to carry.

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