Community

Po Teck Tung Foundation Continues Building Livelihoods and Improving Lives Across Southern Thailand

Po Teck Tung Foundation distributed occupational equipment worth over 830,000 baht to 33 poor households in Songkhla Province and provided free medical services to residents. The initiative is part of Phase 4 of the foundation's poverty all

28 Apr Khaosod

On April 28, 2025, the Po Teck Tung Foundation, led by Surapong Techa-Ruenvijit, Vice Secretary-General and Board Member, held a ceremony to distribute occupational equipment to 33 poor households in Songkhla Province worth 804,642 baht and provided 20 bicycles to two rural schools valued at 25,800 baht, totaling 830,442 baht in assistance. The foundation also deployed a mobile community medical unit with volunteer doctors, rescue personnel, and volunteers to provide free general medical checkups, eyeglasses, haircuts, dental services, and recreational activities to local residents.

The event was co-chaired by Chutsip Thamphetch, Deputy Governor of Songkhla Province, and Samart Suwannamon, Vice Director-General of the Department of Community Development. The foundation's integrated poverty alleviation program has completed three phases across central, northern, and northeastern Thailand, assisting 813 households so far. In 2024, an additional 57 flood-affected households in Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai received equipment, bringing the total to 870 households benefiting from over 17 million baht in assistance. The foundation is now implementing Phase 4 in southern Thailand, covering 14 provinces including Chumphon, Surat Thani, Ranong, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phang Nga, Phatthalung, Songkhla, Trang, Satun, Krabi, Phuket, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat.

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National

Thammanat Opens Up: Not Waiting on the Sidelines, Says Future Forward Party Will Grow Rapidly, Over 100 MPs Possible With More Preparation Time

Air Chief Marshal Thammanat Prompow, the new leader of Thailand's Future Forward Party, says the party could have won over 100 MPs with more preparation time, following their 56-seat performance in recent elections. He vowed the party will

28 Apr Khaosod

At 4:00 p.m. on April 28, 2569, at the Golden Tulip Sofférin Hotel in Bangkok, Air Chief Marshal Thammanat Prompow, the new leader of the Future Forward Party (FFP), addressed the audience following his appointment. He explained that the leadership change was necessary, noting that the previous leader, Nusara Pinyosinsuwat, had served for over two years and repeatedly asked when he would take the helm. He emphasized that the party operates as a family without hierarchy, with decisions made collaboratively rather than by one person's decree. Thammanat congratulated the 21 new party executives, representing different regions and duly certified by the Election Commission.

Thammanat expressed confidence in the party's rapid growth, citing their impressive performance in the recent election where they secured 56 constituency seats. He suggested that with more preparation time—over 28 days—they could have achieved 100 MPs, with potential support reaching 130 candidates across different voting tiers. He acknowledged the party's growth has been remarkably swift, though he didn't specify the exact reasons.

The new party leader emphasized his pride in serving as the opposition, noting that FFP has talented new MPs capable of making an impact during parliamentary sessions and debates. He stressed that his role requires principles and skills across all political functions. After spending years in the government side since 2562 until early 2569, he acknowledged the adjustment to opposition politics but remains committed to his principles. His primary responsibility is to scrutinize government operations and civil service performance.

Thammanat made clear the party will not engage in personal vendettas or use past relationships as conditions for opposition work. They will function as the opposition—not as a revenge faction or passive observers. He emphasized maintaining political dignity, having grown up with the party as a brotherhood committed to mutual support. He concluded by noting current threats—natural disasters, human-caused dangers, and economic crises—with mismanagement being the most serious concern, rather than war.

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National

Government Savings Bank Plans to Distribute 300 Billion Baht in New Loans in 2025 to Support Grassroots Communities

Government Savings Bank plans to distribute 270-320 billion baht in new loans throughout 2025, targeting grassroots microenterprises and SMEs with low interest rates to support communities amid economic challenges.

28 Apr Khaosod

Government Savings Bank Plans to Distribute 300 Billion Baht in New Loans in 2025 to Support Grassroots Communities. Songphol Cheevapaññarojanam, Director of the Government Savings Bank, announced that in 2025 the bank plans to distribute new credit loans valued at approximately 270-320 billion baht to assist grassroots entrepreneurs and SMEs. The loans will be divided into three groups:

1. Grassroots microenterprises (over one million borrowers) requiring no collateral, with individual loan amounts between 100,000-200,000 baht depending on customer needs and repayment capacity. The bank targets new disbursements of approximately 70,000-100,000 million baht, comprising various credit types such as revolving credit to improve liquidity and occupational loans tailored to customer needs. Interest rates will be kept low to ease borrower burden.

2. Small and medium-sized entrepreneurs (SMEs) without collateral, with a target of 120,000 million baht in new credit—40% higher than the previous year. This segment receives priority attention as these customers have been significantly impacted by the economic crisis.

3. Low-interest loans (soft loans) valued at 100,000 million baht to support liquidity, create new momentum, facilitate transition and development, and provide loans for solar panel installation and all types of electric vehicles approved by the Cabinet. This program began in late 2024, with 9 billion baht already disbursed; the remaining 90,000 million baht is expected to be distributed more quickly this year. The bank is negotiating memorandums of understanding with commercial banks and non-bank financial institutions to facilitate soft loan disbursements.

Cheevapaññarojanam stated that the Government Savings Bank aims to be a "bank for society, for all lives" serving people at every stage of life. He noted that the Thai economy faces challenges in 2025 from Middle Eastern conflicts and energy price crises, making it essential for the bank to support struggling grassroots communities and SMEs. The bank will offer interest rates below those of commercial banks while providing financial literacy education to help customers understand proper money management. The bank commits to leaving no one behind.

"There are many challenges ahead in this year that we must prepare for. This crisis is an opportunity because our geographic position allows us to continue earning and exporting. We must work together and move forward. The Government Savings Bank is ready to be part of ensuring everyone survives. We will be a bank for society, for all lives, and for all ages," Cheevapaññarojanam said.

Additionally, the bank has implemented a policy to reduce interest rates for borrowers with good repayment discipline. The policy was piloted with home loan applicants—for example, when borrowers complete three years of fixed-rate interest periods and face higher floating rates, the bank will negotiate with borrowers to reduce rates to 3-4% without waiting for the full three-year term to expire. This will be expanded to business loans and microenterprises to encourage and reward those with good payment discipline.

Cheevapaññarojanam announced plans to support customer savings with higher returns, including the planned issuance of Government Savings Bank lottery bonds with total prize money of 113 million baht. Previously, the grand prize was valued at 70 million baht alone, but the structure will be modified.

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National

Industry Ministry Advances Hazardous Waste Management to OECD Standards

Thailand is upgrading hazardous waste management and chemical systems to meet OECD standards as part of its push toward full membership by 2028. The Industry Ministry is coordinating with government and private sector organizations to align

28 Apr Khaosod

Industrial Minister Warawuth Silparacha announced that the ministry is accelerating efforts to upgrade business capacity and hazardous waste management systems to meet international standards, preparing Thailand for full membership in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) by 2028. Thailand currently holds accession candidate status in the OECD membership process. Following a December 26, 2023 Cabinet resolution, the Department of Industrial Works, the Thai Industrial Standards Institute, and the Department of Medical Sciences have been designated as lead agencies for technical assessments, working with the OECD's Chemicals and Biotechnology Committee (CBC) to support sustainable development while protecting public health and the environment. The initiative aims to prevent trade barriers, reduce costs for the country and industry, and standardize chemical management systems. The ministry is implementing these policies and practices in ways appropriate to Thailand's context while aligning with international standards. Last week, the Department of Industrial Works held meetings with 158 organizations from government, private sector, and independent agencies to discuss preparation guidelines and the benefits of OECD membership, and to clarify understanding of instruments under the CBC committee for coordinated implementation. OECD membership is significant for upgrading the entire legal framework, improving governance and transparency, and attracting foreign investment. The Prime Minister and government are pushing to complete Thailand's transition to full OECD membership within the coming year.

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National

Matichon Approves 0.10 Baht Per Share Dividend, Accelerates Business Model Restructuring and Cost Control

Matichon's shareholders approved a 0.10 baht per share dividend while the publisher accelerates cost restructuring, including a 90 million baht early retirement program expected to save 36 million baht annually as online advertising now dri

28 Apr Khaosod

Prapot Bunpan, Managing Director of Matichon Public Company Limited, announced that the first 2025 shareholders' meeting approved a dividend payment of 0.10 baht per share for 185,349,200 shares, totaling 18,534,920 baht, paid from retained earnings after corporate income tax of 30% has been deducted. This dividend rate matches the previous year despite a challenging economic climate. Over the past two years, the company has faced ongoing impacts from the changing media business landscape, similar to other media companies listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET).

Prapot stated that Matichon continues restructuring its revenue streams, with online advertising now generating 52% of total revenue as its primary income source, while special events and activities contribute 27%, and traditional print media advertising accounts for just 20%. Daily newspaper sales have declined with market conditions, though the book publishing business remains strong, with book sales representing 45% of total sales revenue.

A key company initiative involves efficient cost management through an early retirement program, which cost approximately 90 million baht but is expected to yield long-term benefits. Starting from 2025, the company projects annual savings of about 36 million baht in personnel and employee welfare costs, strengthening organizational flexibility for future challenges.

Prapot emphasized that the company currently faces two fundamental challenges: cost reduction and revenue generation. The company has been searching for new business models but hasn't fully succeeded in replacing the traditional model. Matichon is considering a comprehensive review of its operations and cost structure. He stressed that the company has not raised newspaper prices and remains committed to professional journalism standards while seeking business survival.

Regarding financials, current assets total 774 million baht (down 158 million from 933 million in 2024), total assets stand at 1,583 million baht (down 199 million from 1,782 million), and liabilities total 287 million baht (down 30.7 million).

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Breaking

Pedestrian Overpass in Sam Khok District Becomes Hotspot for Explicit Content Production

Residents of Sam Khok district in Pathum Thani reported suspicious activity at a pedestrian overpass over the expressway, where evidence suggested explicit content was being filmed for online sale. Local authorities discovered used condoms

28 Apr Khaosod

PATHUM THANI — A village head in Sam Khok district has raised concerns after residents reported a group of people allegedly using a pedestrian overpass as a location for indecent activity and filming explicit content for sale on a private online platform.

On 28 April 2025, village head Chukiat Phochan of Moo 4 in Chiang Rak Yai subdistrict said he received complaints from locals about suspicious activity on a pedestrian bridge over the Udon Ratthaya Expressway in Pathum Thani province.

Following the report, local leaders inspected the area and said they found numerous items believed to have been left behind, including used condoms, underwear, condom wrappers, lubricant, wet tissues, and a vegetable covered with a condom placed along the walkway.

Chukiat said residents had earlier seen similar activity in an online private group and alerted authorities. He added that he had previously patrolled the area regularly and had not found such items before, suggesting the activity likely took place late at night.

Assistant village head Chaiwat Panyarachun said the location has reportedly been dubbed an "aerial homestay" by some groups, adding that aside from alleged sexual activity, there were also signs of illegal cable stripping and burning to extract copper for resale.

Local leaders have coordinated with Sam Khok police and the Expressway Authority of Thailand to find preventive measures, citing poor visibility caused by signage that creates blind spots on the overpass.

Authorities have warned those involved to stop the activity, stressing that public spaces must not be used for illegal or inappropriate conduct, which could lead to legal action.

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National

Cabinet Approves 3.788 Trillion Baht Budget for Fiscal Year 2570, Emphasizing Targeted and Cost-Effective Spending

Thailand's Cabinet approved a 3.788 trillion baht budget for fiscal year 2570, a modest 0.2 percent increase from the previous year, with emphasis on targeted spending and reduced government deficit.

28 Apr Khaosod

On April 28, 2569, at Government House, Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Cabinet meeting approved an expenditure budget framework of 3,788,000 million baht for fiscal year 2570, an increase of 7,400 million baht from fiscal year 2569's allocation of 3,780,600 million baht, representing a 0.2 percent increase.

The budget framework was developed through consultations among four agencies: the Budget Bureau, Ministry of Finance, Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council, and the Bank of Thailand on April 22, 2569. It aligns with the medium-term fiscal plan for fiscal years 2570–2573 previously approved by the Cabinet.

The budget maintains fiscal discipline with a projected net government revenue of 3,000,000 million baht, up 79,400 million baht or 2.7 percent from the previous year, and a deficit budget policy set at 788,000 million baht, a reduction of 72,000 million baht or 8.4 percent from fiscal year 2569.

Ratchada stated that the Prime Minister has instructed all government agencies to prepare budgets with precision and efficiency, focusing on directly addressing public hardships while adhering to principles of cost-effectiveness, necessity, urgency, and appropriateness to the current situation. The approach includes implementing zero-based budgeting concepts for maximum benefit and utilizing alternative funding sources outside the regular budget, such as off-budget funds or alternative capital, for government investment projects to reduce the overall budget burden on the nation.

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Community

Woman Launches Unusual Business Selling Mosquito Keychains, Earning Thousands—Foreigners Love Them Despite Complex Production Process

A Thai entrepreneur has turned dead mosquitoes into a thriving business, creating glow-in-the-dark keychains that foreign tourists buy as souvenirs. The intricate multi-day production process and strict sourcing requirements have made the q

28 Apr Khaosod

Who would have thought that selling mosquitoes could generate thousands of baht? A TikTok user named Lee (@leesaesilp) has turned this bizarre idea into a legitimate business, creating glow-in-the-dark keychains from actual mosquito specimens and even setting up booth sales. Foreign customers are so enthusiastic about these "mosquitoes from Thailand" that they buy them as souvenirs for friends back home.

Lee explains how the business started: "I got thousands of baht just from swatting mosquitoes every day. I liked collecting dead mosquitoes as a hobby, and I thought it would be fun to turn them into keychains with glow-in-the-dark effects. When live mosquitoes see them, they panic and fly away—maybe it even reduces the risk of getting bitten!" The business has been so successful that Lee invested in mosquito traps, though they're inconsistent and consume a lot of electricity.

However, the production process is far from simple. Each keychain goes through multiple stages spanning several days: catching mosquitoes, waiting for them to dry, preserving them, mounting them in plastic frames, and more drying. The most critical step is the framing and drying process—if the specimens aren't completely dry, they can break or deteriorate, forcing Lee to constantly worry about quality.

Lee also buys mosquito specimens from collectors, with specific requirements: specimens must come from existing household traps in large quantities (not bred commercially for sale). Compensation starts at 700-900+ baht, with a 50-baht shipping fee and 500-baht processing fee. Mosquitoes are purchased at 2 baht each for batches of 100-200 specimens, though damaged ones may fetch only 1 baht or nothing at all.

Packaging is critical and requires careful handling—avoiding ants, wearing masks during preparation, and using only flat paper envelopes. The finished keychains retail for 149 baht plus 30 baht shipping, with a production time of 7-14 days per order.

Despite the challenges, Lee remains enthusiastic: "Do whatever you want—life is short. Some might think this is pointless, and maybe it is, but who cares?"

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Weather

Meteorological Department Issues Third Severe Thunderstorm Warning; Heavy Storms Expected Tomorrow with Full Province Coverage

Thailand's Meteorological Department has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for April 29 to May 1, with heavy storms, strong winds, hail, and possible lightning expected to sweep across the country starting from northern regions.

28 Apr Khaosod

On April 28, 2025, the Thai Meteorological Department issued the third severe summer thunderstorm warning affecting northern Thailand from April 29 to May 1, 2025. During this period, Thailand's upper regions will experience severe thunderstorms characterized by strong gusty winds, hail, heavy rainfall in some areas, and possible lightning strikes. The storms will first impact the northern, northeastern, and eastern regions before affecting central Thailand, Bangkok, and surrounding areas. This is caused by a high-pressure system and cold air mass from China moving over the northeastern region and the South China Sea while northern Thailand experiences hot to very hot conditions.

The public is urged to take precautions against thunderstorms by avoiding open areas, large trees, buildings, and weak signage. Farmers should strengthen fruit trees and prepare protective measures for crops and livestock. The Meteorological Department recommends monitoring weather updates via its website at http://www.tmd.go.th or by calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182 available 24 hours daily.

High-risk provinces for April 29 include: Northern region—Chiang Rai, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Phichit, and Phetchabun; Northeastern region—Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nongbua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani.

For April 30, high-risk provinces shift to: Northern region—Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Lampun, Lamphang, Sukhothai, Tak, and Kamphaeng Phet; Northeastern region—Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, Buriram, and Surin; Central region—Nakhon Sawan, Lopburi, Saraburi, and Ayutthaya; Eastern region—Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Sa Kaew, Chachoengsao, and Chonburi.

By May 1, medium-risk conditions are expected across northern provinces including Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, and others; northeastern provinces including Loei, Chaiyaphum, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Buriram; central provinces including Bangkok and its vicinity; and eastern provinces including Prachuap Khiri Khan, Sa Kaew, and Chachoengsao.

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Breaking

Luka Modrić to Undergo Cheekbone Surgery – Will He Recover in Time for 2026 World Cup?

The 40-year-old Croatian midfielder will undergo surgery for a fractured cheekbone sustained in an AC Milan match, sidelining him for the rest of the season but expected to recover before the 2026 World Cup.

28 Apr Khaosod

AC Milan has announced that Luka Modrić, the legendary Croatian national team midfielder, requires surgery to treat a fractured cheekbone suffered in a Series A match against Juventus last weekend. The injury occurred after a collision with Juventus midfielder Manuel Locatelli, with medical examinations confirming multiple fractures on his left cheekbone. While the 40-year-old is expected to miss the remainder of the current season due to the typical 6-8 week recovery period for such injuries, he should recover in time for the 2026 World Cup. Croatian national team coach Zlatko Dalić expressed confidence, stating: "I believe he will do everything necessary to prepare himself for the World Cup, and we will provide him full support. I'm confident that Luka will remain our team leader at the tournament this summer."

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National

Pheu Thai Party Set to Elect 14 Committee Chairs Next Week; Asopdal Tapped for Anti-Corruption Panel, Thanyos for Administration Committee

Pheu Thai Party will announce 14 parliamentary committee chairs next week, with Asopdal Sannartribupt appointed to lead the Anti-Corruption Committee and Thanyos Timsuwann taking the Administration Committee role.

28 Apr Khaosod

The Pheu Thai Party is preparing to announce 14 parliamentary committee chairs next week, with positions already allocated. Key appointments include: Asopdal Sannartribupt (Sri Saket) to head the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Prevention Committee; Thanyos Timsuwann (Loei) to lead the Administration Committee; Wachrapong Kuwijittasuwarn (Saraburi) chairing the Police Committee; Kongkrit Chaturaleeratna (Ranong) leading the Decentralization Committee; Thiwalrat Anksinantana (Phetchburi) heading the Religious Affairs Committee; Supon Julsi (Chumphon) chairing Energy; Supachoke Srisukjorn (Nakhon Pathom) leading Industry; Samret Thansap (Chaiyaphum) chairing Commerce; Chuti Krairik (Phitsanulok) heading Finance; Atthapol Trisiree (Phang Nga) leading Consumer Protection; Dr. Alongkot Manigat (Nakhon Phanom) chairing Communications; Serisit Butneiam (Prachuap Khiri Khan) heading Debt Solutions; Montien Songpracha (Chainat) leading National Security; and Kulanvali Nophomrabadee (Ratchaburi) chairing Land Affairs.

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