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No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Police raid temple in Chaiyaphum, arrest six monks after drug tests turn purple, discover methamphetamine in cells

Police raided a Chaiyaphum temple and arrested six monks after drug tests revealed four had used methamphetamine, with 18 pills found hidden in their cells. Authorities also arrested a drug supplier caught distributing pills to the monks.

11 May Khaosod

On May 11, 2026, the Chaiyaphum Provincial Drug Control Center, led by Chaiyaphum Governor Anant Nakaniyon, conducted a raid on a temple in Ban Han subdistrict, Kasetsart district, Chaiyaphum following reports of monk involvement in drug-related activities. All six monks at the temple underwent urine testing, with four monks testing positive for drug use indicated by purple-colored urine. The abbot and deputy abbot tested negative. Officers discovered 18 methamphetamine pills hidden in the monks' cells and proceeded to defrock the four monks and forward them for legal proceedings. In a follow-up operation, authorities arrested a 25-year-old drug supplier who confessed to purchasing 1,000 methamphetamine pills at 30 baht per pill through online channels and reselling them to drug users and monks at 40-50 baht per pill. A total of 216 methamphetamine pills were seized from the supplier.

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National

British Woman's Ear Itch Escalates to Half-Face Paralysis

A 29-year-old Liverpool mother developed half-face paralysis after ear itching turned out to be Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, a shingles-related condition that damages facial nerves and requires urgent treatment within 72 hours for best recovery ou

11 May Khaosod

A 29-year-old British woman has shared her shocking experience after what started as minor ear itching escalated into half-face paralysis, ultimately diagnosed as Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, which can take up to a year to recover from or may never fully resolve.

Paige Weston, a mother of two from Liverpool, noticed a small lump near her ear in early April but initially dismissed it. Days later, her ear became intensely itchy, swollen, and painful. Her doctor initially diagnosed a bacterial ear infection and prescribed antibiotics, but her symptoms worsened with severe, continuous headaches. Despite a second visit, tests, and medication changes, she didn't improve. Soon after, she noticed abnormalities on her face before symptoms rapidly escalated, leading to an emergency room visit where doctors revealed it wasn't a bacterial infection but shingles in the ear, which was connected to her facial paralysis.

Weston was subsequently diagnosed with Stage 3 Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, caused by the varicella-zoster virus—the same virus behind chickenpox and shingles. The virus can remain dormant in the body for years before reactivating. The condition can damage facial nerves, causing paralysis, rashes around the ear, severe pain, and hearing loss in some cases.

Doctors emphasized that early treatment, particularly within the first 72 hours of symptom onset, is crucial for recovery. However, Weston received antiviral medications and steroids nearly three weeks after her symptoms began. She admitted the diagnosis period was filled with confusion and fear, particularly regarding facial changes.

"I lost a lot of confidence. When I smiled or laughed, I'd cover my mouth because I didn't feel like myself and didn't want others to notice my face," she shared.

While her shingles have begun improving, Weston continues experiencing stabbing pain, itching, and burning sensations in her ear, with facial muscle weakness remaining a significant daily challenge. However, she's starting to see small signs of recovery, which give her hope.

"I'm seeing small improvements, and that gives me hope I'll recover. While recovery takes time, I won't let this disease stop me from living," she said.

She also warns others not to dismiss unusual symptoms, particularly those affecting the ears and face. "Early treatment, especially within the first 72 hours, can make a huge difference in recovery. And if the disease affects your face, know you're not alone in facing this—it takes a serious psychological toll."

Weston revealed that joining online support groups for patients and hearing recovery stories from others has given her strength to fight the disease.

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Community

Top 5 Zodiac Signs Blessed by Lord Ganesha with Wealth and Fortune - Rapid Riches Ahead

A fortune reading identifies five zodiac signs—Virgo, Aquarius, Sagittarius, Leo, and Aries—as being specially blessed by Lord Ganesha to receive wealth and good fortune. Those born under these signs, who have faced previous struggles and hardships, are encouraged to seek divine intervention to transform their lives and achieve prosperity.

11 May Khaosod

During this period, the fortunes of individuals and their zodiac signs are undergoing significant changes, with improvements possible in various areas of life. Fortune teller Mo Boi reveals that five zodiac signs are specially blessed by Lord Ganesha to receive wealth and good fortune: Virgo (1st), Aquarius (2nd), Sagittarius (3rd), Leo (4th), and Aries (5th). Those born under these signs, who have previously struggled with life's complications, debts, and jealousy from others, are encouraged to seek transformation and invoke the power of Lord Ganesha for success and abundance. By receiving blessings and divine power from the deity, these individuals can overcome their past challenges and achieve prosperity and excellence.

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National

Messi Confirms Lamine Yamal as the Greatest Young Talent of This Generation – Like Seeing Myself at That Age

Lionel Messi has named Barcelona's Lamine Yamal as the greatest young talent of his generation, saying the 17-year-old reminds him of himself at that age.

11 May Khaosod

According to Daily Mail, Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has expressed his view that Lamine Yamal is the best young player of the modern era and reminds him of himself at a younger age. At 38 years old, Messi currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and is recognized as one of the greatest footballers in history. Recently asked about his perspective on the best young player of this generation, Messi stated: "There are many talented young players, but if I had to choose one, considering his age and the future ahead of him, it would be Lamine Yamal." Speaking at an Adidas event and reported by Marca, he added: "There's no doubt—for me, he's the best. He reminds me of myself when I was young." Yamal currently plays for Barcelona, the same club where Messi achieved his greatest success.

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National

Pheu Thai Clarifies Landbridge Project: Will Abandon if Unviable or Unwanted by Locals, Threatens Legal Action Against Defamers

Pheu Thai clarified its Landbridge project remains in feasibility study and will be abandoned if unviable or rejected by locals, while denying rumors about foreign land leases, casinos, and trillion-baht budgets.

11 May Khaosod

The Pheu Thai Party has released an official clarification on its Landbridge project, firmly stating that if the initiative proves unviable or lacks public support, it will be shelved entirely. In a statement posted on May 11, 2569, the party dispelled multiple rumors, clarifying that the Landbridge project is distinct from the failed Special Economic Zones (SEC) legislation that was abandoned two parliamentary sessions ago. The party emphasized that no final investment decisions have been made, and the project currently remains in the feasibility study phase under a 90-day review led by Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprasert. The party denied three key allegations: that foreign nationals would be granted 99-year land leases, that casino operations would be permitted, and that a one trillion baht budget had been allocated. According to Pheu Thai, the project's objectives—if it proceeds—include positioning Thailand as a regional logistics hub, reducing maritime shipping times, enhancing competitiveness, and generating long-term economic growth and employment. Critically, the party stated that local and national public opinion will be the deciding factor in whether the project advances. Pheu Thai warned it would pursue legal action against anyone spreading false information or defaming the party regarding the project.

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National

Over 50,000 Workers Hired! Royal Irrigation Department Launches Dry Season Employment Program to Support Farmers Nationwide

The Royal Irrigation Department has hired over 53,000 workers for dry-season irrigation projects nationwide, providing supplementary income to farmers struggling with rising living costs. The program aims to reach 84,512 workers and remains

11 May Khaosod

The Royal Irrigation Department continues its employment recruitment drive, with over 53,000 workers now hired across the country to help ease financial hardship and create supplementary income for farmers during the dry season. The initiative aims to provide agricultural workers with additional earnings during off-season periods and help offset rising living costs amid global economic pressures that have increased fuel and agricultural input costs nationwide.

Suriypol Nuchangnong, director-general of the Royal Irrigation Department, announced that the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives has implemented a policy to support farmers nationwide during the dry season by offering employment opportunities within irrigation projects in fiscal year 2569. The department set a target of hiring 84,512 workers this year, and has so far recruited over 53,000 workers, representing approximately 63% of the goal. The top three provinces by recruitment numbers are Sakon Nakhon with 2,887 workers, Chiang Mai with 2,821 workers, and Nakhon Ratchasima with 2,037 workers.

The Royal Irrigation Department continues accepting applications to meet its recruitment targets and welcomes interested farmers and citizens to participate in the program. Interested individuals can contact their local irrigation project office or call the department's hotline at 1460 during regular business hours.

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National

Football Association Appoints Krisdaa as Chair of King's Cup Host Selection Committee

The Football Association of Thailand appointed Krisdaa Chinawicharn to lead the selection committee for hosting the 52nd King's Cup football tournament in November 2025, with four provinces competing to host the event.

11 May Khaosod

The Football Association of Thailand has appointed Krisdaa Chinawicharn, a former Deputy Minister of Finance and board member, as Chair of the King's Cup Host Selection Committee. The association is accepting applications to select a province capable of hosting the 52nd King's Cup, a royal trophy football competition scheduled for November 9-17, 2025, in a four-team tournament format.

Four provinces have submitted bids: - Sisaket Province: Sisaket Provincial Sports Stadium (Island Stadium) - Khon Kaen Province: Khon Kaen Provincial Administration Organization Sports Stadium - Ayutthaya Province: Ayutthaya Provincial Sports Stadium - Rayong Province: Rayong Provincial Sports Stadium

To ensure a smooth and effective selection process, the committee has been established with the following members: 1. Krisdaa Chinawicharn as Committee Chair 2. Ms. Ravida Sosotthikul as Committee Member 3. Ms. Kritsya Phoumongkhonsuriya as Committee Member

The committee will oversee studies, supervision, inspections, coordination, and follow-up regarding the host selection process. They will also coordinate with government agencies, private sectors, and related organizations. Host qualification criteria include:

- Match stadium, training facilities, and amenities meeting Thai League or AFC standards (requiring at least 2 training fields and 4 locker rooms) - Standard lighting for match and training fields - International-standard food service - Proximity to international and domestic airports - Four to five-star hotels with sufficient capacity for teams, referees, and tournament staff - Adequate tournament management personnel

These requirements will upgrade public infrastructure and facilities at provincial sports stadiums, contributing to Thailand's development of internationally-standard football venues as recognized by AFC and FIFA. The winner will be announced at the FA Thailand Awards 2025-26, following the conclusion of the 2025-26 professional football league season.

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National

Princess Intrasakkhadiset Foundation Hosts Merit-Making Ceremony for the Late Queen Sirikit

The Princess Intrasakkhadiset Foundation held a merit-making ceremony honoring late Queen Sirikit on May 4 at Bangkok's Grand Palace, with Princess Sirindhorn's royal patronage foundation serving as official host.

11 May Khaosod

On May 4, 2026, at 2:30 PM, the Princess Intrasakkhadiset Foundation, a royal foundation under the patronage of Princess Sirindhorn, received royal permission to serve as host for the merit-making ceremony honoring the late Queen Sirikit, the Millennium Queen. The ceremony was attended at Dusit Maha Prasat Hall in the Grand Palace by Dr. Nuttarapaip Suchritakul, foundation board chairman, along with other foundation board members including Ms. Pim Charuseni and Ms. Sopphit Suchritakul as vice-chairs, and Ms. Chantawan Suchritakul as treasurer, accompanied by the full foundation committee.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Julphand Vows to Restore Public Confidence in Social Security with Transparency and Tight Budget Controls

Thailand's Labor Minister pledges to restore public trust in the Social Security Office through greater transparency and budget controls, while pushing to expand coverage for gig economy and migrant workers.

11 May Khaosod

On May 11, 2025, at the Social Security Office headquarters, Labor Minister Julphand Amornvivat held a press conference following a meeting with senior officials from the Social Security Office, including Deputy Permanent Secretary Wannapong Kacharaksa as chairman of the Social Security Board, and Secretary-General Kanjana Pulkaew. The discussion was divided into three main areas: the Social Security Office, the Compensation Fund, and the Social Security Board, focusing on implementing new policies and driving collaborative work efforts.

Amornvivat acknowledged that the Social Security Office currently faces a 'crisis of confidence' stemming from internal conflicts and communication issues that have negatively impacted the organization's image. However, he affirmed that audits by relevant agencies, including the Ministry of Finance, found no problems with fund management and that the funds remain in good condition. He stressed the need for greater transparency going forward, allowing the public to scrutinize all operations without hidden agendas.

A key policy priority is expanding coverage to platform workers and gig economy workers, many of whom currently fall outside the social security system. With over 300,000 riders currently and potentially millions more within 3-5 years, the Labor Ministry is preparing amendments to social security laws. The minister acknowledged ongoing discussions about whether to include platform workers under existing provisions or create new categories, as their employment model differs significantly from traditional workers.

Amornvivat also proposed bringing more migrant workers into the social security system to reduce illegal labor issues and ensure workers receive proper protections. Additional emphasis will be placed on preventive measures including occupational health and safety, and rehabilitation programs to return injured workers to the labor market, ultimately reducing the billions spent annually on medical costs.

Regarding widespread complaints about the SSO Core web application system, Amornvivat admitted the problems persist and discussions are underway to find solutions. The ministry is also pushing 'Quick Win' measures to improve benefits without significant budget increases but with immediate quality-of-life improvements for members.

When pressed on past concerns about fund expenditure management, the minister explained that all spending processes operate within legal frameworks and are reported to the board and oversight agencies such as the Office of the Auditor General.

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National

Elevating Thai Industry Into a New Era: Thai Chamber of Commerce Unveils 5I Framework to Drive Industrial Innovation

Thailand's industrial federation unveiled a five-pillar strategy called the 5I framework to modernize the nation's manufacturing sector through innovation, productivity upgrades, and sustainable growth during a Bangkok forum on May 11.

11 May Khaosod

The Federation of Thai Industries president revealed a strategy to advance Thailand's industrial sector and upgrade target industries through innovation using the 5I policy at the 'Matichon X AIS Forum 2026: Innovation Changes Thailand' seminar held on May 11 at Pullman King Power Hotel in Bangkok. The Matichon Group organized the forum to present progress in innovation and Thailand's capacity to leverage innovation as a driving force.

Pimjai Lee Itsaranukul, president of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), speaking on 'Strategy to Drive Industry and Upgrade Target Industries Through Innovation,' stated that the direction for Thai industrial development in the 2026-2028 working period will be 'The New Chapter of Thai Industry,' powered by the 5I policy. The five "I"s represent Industry and comprise five interconnected core strategies.

The framework is divided into I1 through I5, covering production advancement, innovation, global networks, infrastructure, and sustainability. I1 focuses on Productivity, aiming toward Intelligent Industry to drive Smart Industry and elevate manufacturers to Smart OEM status.

I2 emphasizes Innovation and Creativity to add value, with the goal of enabling Thai manufacturers to develop intellectual property ownership and own their product brands to increase value.

Pimjai stated that I3 is International Alliance and Network, targeting Thailand as the world's Supply Chain Hub, leveraging the country's strong geopolitical position.

I1, I2, and I3 represent the business process image for sustainable and competitive growth. This foundation must rest on I4, Industrial Infrastructure Reform, encompassing energy, legislation, protection of domestically produced goods, and human capital development—all critical foundational elements.

Additionally, I5 is Inclusive Sustainable Growth, creating sustainability in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) dimensions, which is highly important.

"We will be The New Chapter of Thai Industry, driven by five I policies: from Intelligent Industry upgrading to Smart Industry, Innovation & Creativity creating brands through innovation, International Alliance positioning Thailand as the global supply chain hub, Infrastructure Reform restructuring our foundation, and Inclusive & Sustainable Growth achieving sustainable growth together," Pimjai stated.

She noted that the five dimensions are interconnected, with I1, I2, and I3 serving as the primary mechanisms of industrial business processes. Sustainable and competitive growth requires a strong industrial infrastructure foundation with comprehensive sustainability principles across all dimensions.

Intelligent Industry represents elevating Thai industry to Smart Industry through modern technology adoption, including MES systems, ERP, Robotic Automation, Cloud AI, energy management and renewable energy systems, Smart Logistics, as well as Digital Twin and Data Simulation—all critical mechanisms for industrial advancement.

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National

Thai Oil Reports Net Profit of 19.481 Billion Baht as Q2 Expected to See Oil Stock Losses

Thai Oil reported first-quarter net profit of 19.5 billion baht, though 85% came from temporary oil inventory gains that the company warns could reverse into losses in Q2 as crude prices decline.

11 May Khaosod

Pongsapun Amorwiwattana, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Thai Oil Public Company Limited (TOP), announced that the company posted net profit of 19.481 billion baht for the first quarter of 2025. Of this, 85% or 16.746 billion baht came from net gains on oil inventory valuations, with an additional 2.436 billion baht in gains from debt repurchases. "Despite strong operating profits, the company recognized 6.628 billion baht in other expenses and losses," Amorwiwattana stated. "When these are excluded, the group's underlying net operating profit stands at 6.927 billion baht, with refining business net profit of 4.136 baht per liter."

The executive cautioned that these oil stock gains are temporary and could reverse into losses if oil prices decline as geopolitical tensions ease. The company had secured crude oil supplies one to two months in advance during the period of heightened conflict, meaning Q1 accounting costs do not fully reflect the impact of price volatility.

Refining margins including oil stock gains reached 7.6 baht per liter in Q1, but are expected to gradually decline to 2.6 baht per liter in Q2, turn negative at minus 2.3 baht per liter in Q3, and flatten to near zero in Q4. The company forecasts full-year 2025 refining margins of around 2.0 baht per liter.

For Q2 outlook, the company expects continued market volatility and anticipates recognizing oil inventory losses starting from Q2 onwards, as the crude purchased during March-April's crisis period becomes reflected in production costs. However, should geopolitical tensions resolve, crude prices would fall and create downstream losses from high-cost inventory.

Regarding government fuel price reductions of 2-5 baht per liter between April 9 and May 19, the company views this as a short-term measure. Any further price reductions would require careful consideration, and negotiations over recovering previously reduced refining margins remain ongoing.

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