Tourism

Siam Piwat Partners with Huawei to Transform Travel Tech, Introducing Thailand's First Wearable-Integrated Ecosystem

Siam Piwat and Huawei launched Thailand's first wearable-integrated visitor card on Huawei smartwatches, enabling international shoppers at Bangkok malls to access exclusive benefits instantly through a cross-platform ecosystem targeting 20

5 May Khaosod

Siam Piwat, a leading real estate developer and global destination creator, has elevated its strategic partnership with Huawei, the global technology and telecommunications leader, by launching the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card on Huawei Wearables. This cross-platform solution supports all operating systems to enhance visitor convenience, drive transformation in the travel retail industry, and strengthen Thailand's competitive tourism position. The partnership establishes both companies as game changers in creating global experiential destinations and setting new retail technology standards amid rapid global tourism industry competition and change. This collaboration extends access to over 200 million Huawei Wearables users worldwide, targeting high-value tourists from key markets including China, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Southeast Asia. Amporn Chotiratchskul, CEO of Siam Piwat Company Limited, stated that the strategic partnership with Huawei, ongoing since 2020, has leveraged Huawei Cloud to enhance retail omnichannel operations and develop the ONESIAM SuperApp, creating seamless online-offline experiences. This serves as a key driver in transforming the retail industry while creating value for customers, partners, and the broader ecosystem. By 2026, Siam Piwat aims to expand collaboration through Quick App ONESIAM solutions and integration with Wearables, Skytone, and other technologies to increase engagement with global tourists and elevate experiences through Huawei innovations, attracting premium travelers and supporting sustainable economic growth. Rachel Zhou, Director of HUAWEI Consumer Cloud Service APAC, emphasized that this deepened collaboration meaningfully combines global retail destinations with future technology to create exceptional value for Chinese travelers visiting Thailand and international visitors. The seamless ONESIAM Global Visitor Card integration within HarmonyOS through Quick Apps enables precise engagement at every stage of the traveler's journey—from pre-trip planning to on-destination experiences—offering personalized member benefits and enhanced shopping and lifestyle experiences. Connecting Huawei Wearables to the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card enables international visitors at Siam Paragon and Icon Siam to access exclusive benefits instantly, making every shopping moment more innovative and valuable. Huawei remains committed to supporting Siam Piwat in creating happiness, convenience, and world-class service for all international tourists choosing Thailand as their destination. The launch of the ONESIAM Global Visitor Card on Huawei Wearables represents a major upgrade in visitor experience through seamless Quick Apps, supporting all operating systems including iOS, Android, and HarmonyOS, with key features addressing modern travelers' lifestyle needs, including one-tap membership registration and eco-friendly solutions.

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Community

Kao and Vee Clarify Viral Couple Hug Cover with Goy and Tim: Sweet and Romantic, Fans Love the Boyfriend's Tender Moment

Couples Kao and Vee clarified that their viral hugging photo with Goy and Tim was just a playful recreation at a film premiere, with Kao joking he barely touches Vee despite their eight-year relationship.

5 May Khaosod

A viral photo emerged after couple Kao Jirayut Lao-ong Manee and Vee Violet Wattier recreated a sweet hugging pose with couple Goy Oracha and Tim Pita, prompting fans to tease them online.

On May 5, 2026, both couples opened up at a premiere event for the horror film franchise "Term 4" at Sahamongkol Film International (Phahon Yothin Soi 2). Vee emphasized it was just a fun moment during a live stream with friends. She noticed Goy and Tim had posted birthday photos, so she jokingly recreated the pose. Kao admitted he was confused and didn't know beforehand—he was just asked to hug and complied.

When asked if they usually embrace that way, Kao laughed: "Not really. We barely touch. We say 'I love you' from eight meters away." He revealed this was the closest they'd stood in 10 years, despite knowing each other for 8 years. Vee joked about his reserved nature but insisted Kao is actually quite romantic in his own way—he's caring and attentive, especially during emotional filming scenes.

Kao's idea of romance is more practical: calling taxis for Vee. This led to today's playful conflict—he called her a taxi that morning but forgot to pay, leaving Vee humorously "angry" though not genuinely upset. "It's more of a teasing anger," she clarified.

The couple, together for 8 years, recently started moving into their new home, which features numerous decorative lights. Kao joked he needs half an hour to turn them all off before bed. Despite needing to adjust to each other's differences, their love remains strong and stable. Vee confirmed she truly loves him, while Kao expressed his philosophy: "Having something is always better than having nothing." He's drawn to Vee's genuine, straightforward nature, which makes their relationship comfortable and unpredictable-free.

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Breaking

Inoue Accepts Challenge, Set to Face Jesse Rodriguez in Mega Fight January 2027

Japan's undefeated champion Naoya Inoue will face rising Mexican-American contender Jesse Rodriguez in January 2027 after Rodriguez moves up two weight divisions to challenge for the super bantamweight titles.

5 May Khaosod

Naoya Inoue, Japan's elite boxer and four-belt world champion, is ready to move forward with a mega fight against rising Mexican-American boxer Jesse Rodriguez in 2027. Inoue recently defended his super bantamweight world titles (122 pounds) in WBA, WBC, WBO, and IBF by defeating fellow Japanese fighter Junto Nakatani at Tokyo Dome, extending his undefeated record to 33 fights. Reports indicate his next bout will be against 26-year-old Jesse Rodriguez, a three-belt champion with an unblemished record, who will move up from the junior bantamweight division (115 pounds) to challenge the champion. Rodriguez is scheduled to move up to 118 pounds in June to pursue the WBA bantamweight title against Antonio Vargas before facing Inoue in January 2027. Rodriguez stated, "I believe a fight between me and Inoue would be one of the greatest fights in lower weight class history." Eddie Hearn, Match Room promoter, expressed confidence that "Bam" Jesse Rodriguez could be the one to defeat "The Monster." Hearn said, "I watched Inoue in Saudi Arabia and I've never felt more confident that Jesse 'Bam' Rodriguez can beat him. Long ago, I thought this might be too big a step for Jesse, but now that he's moved up to bantamweight, he's bigger and stronger. He might be too good for Inoue now. Bam is 26 while Inoue is 33. I simply don't see how 'Bam' loses to Inoue."

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National

School Uniform Sales Plummet as Parents Cut Back on Purchases, Opting to Repair Old Uniforms Instead

Parents are buying fewer school uniforms ahead of May's new term as economic hardship forces families to reduce purchases and repair old uniforms instead, retailers in Nakhon Ratchasima report.

5 May Khaosod

School uniform sales are experiencing a sharp decline as parents reduce purchases ahead of the new school term in mid-May. A uniform retailer in Nakhon Ratchasima reported noticeably fewer customers, despite prices remaining unchanged so far.

Store owners attribute this year's slump to the lingering economic downturn, compounded by expensive fuel costs and geopolitical instability that have driven up prices across all goods, significantly raising the cost of living. As a result, households are implementing strict cost-cutting measures, especially as school opens.

Families are adopting different strategies to cope. Beyond tuition and educational materials, many face additional expenses when children advance to a new grade level, necessitating new uniforms. This year, many families are purchasing fewer uniforms—reducing from the typical four sets to just two or three. For children remaining in the same grade level, parents may only buy one or two new sets, or if old uniforms still fit properly and show minimal wear, they simply reuse them. Some families are taking old uniforms to tailors to have them enlarged or altered.

Shop owners are appealing to the government to intervene and provide relief to parents and guardians, helping families navigate through the current economic crisis.

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National

Suchart Champions PM's Community Forest and Carbon Credit Policy to Generate Income and Improve Quality of Life

Thailand's environment ministry is accelerating community forest initiatives and carbon credit programs to generate income for rural communities, with over 12,000 community forests already established nationwide.

5 May Khaosod

Suchart Champions PM's Community Forest and Carbon Credit Policy to Generate Income and Improve Quality of Life

On May 5, 2025, Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin ordered the Royal Forest Department to accelerate implementation of the Prime Minister's directive to advance natural resource management alongside grassroots economic development. The focus is on promoting community forests and concretely advancing carbon credits to communities to generate income and long-term security for the public.

Royal Forest Department Director-General Nikorn Sirarojananond announced that the department has established policy guidelines to accelerate tangible community forest initiatives, emphasizing increased community forest establishment. Currently, the department has established over 12,000 community forests across the country, providing citizens the opportunity to sustainably and appropriately utilize forest resources. This is coupled with support enabling communities to register for carbon credits and gain genuine access to carbon trading markets.

Additionally, efforts aim to increase fair benefit-sharing from carbon credits to communities and expand community forest initiatives to other categories of state land for broader coverage. The department is also supporting academic research to validate the economic, social, and environmental benefits of community forests.

This policy serves as a crucial mechanism for strengthening communities, aligning with the government's approach to improving quality of life and driving the country toward sustainable low-carbon society. The Royal Forest Department affirms its continued commitment to advancing the community forest policy, enabling public participation in natural resource conservation and balanced forest utilization for long-term community and national sustainability.

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National

Anutin Announces Cabinet Approval to Terminate MOU 44, Set to Notify Cambodia; Confident Border Situation Unaffected

Thailand's cabinet approved termination of a 25-year maritime boundary agreement with Cambodia, with Prime Minister Anutin saying the move reflects policy rather than dispute and promising formal notification to Phnom Penh.

5 May Khaosod

At 12:30 p.m. on May 5, 2025, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister announced the cabinet's decision to terminate MOU 44, the 25-year-old memorandum of understanding between Thailand and Cambodia regarding overlapping continental shelf claims. Anutin clarified that the termination is not related to disputes with Cambodia but rather reflects the government's policy decision, as the agreement has made no progress toward resolution. Thailand will reference international maritime law and UNCLOS, which both countries recognize as signatories, to guide future negotiations.

When asked about Cambodia's concerns that termination could escalate disputes, Anutin said he would need to consult with Cambodian leadership. He noted that no formal negotiations have yet begun and cautioned against making premature assumptions about their impact. Following termination, any new discussions would likely result in a different framework, potentially "MOU 70" rather than MOU 44.

Anutin confirmed that while the termination takes effect today, Thailand must formally notify Cambodia before sending official documentation. Regarding the upcoming 48th ASEAN Summit in the Philippines, he stated that meetings with Cambodia are inevitable but expressed no concern, reaffirming the government's commitment to "Thailand First" and protecting Thai interests. On border security concerns, Anutin assured the public that military forces are maintaining full vigilance along the Thai-Cambodian border, with the security situation actually improving based on weekly military briefings.

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National

Thai Young Tennis Players Shine: Girls' Team Dominates Regional Qualifying for ITF Asia U-12 Championship

Thailand's girls' tennis team swept Laos 3-0 in the ITF Asia U-12 Championship regional qualifying at Muang Thong Thani, extending their perfect group record to 2-0. The boys' team also defeated Laos with a clean sweep, setting up crucial f

5 May Khaosod

Thailand's under-12 tennis teams competed in the regional qualifying round of the 2026 ITF Asia Twelve and Under Team Competition at the National Tennis Development Center in Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi on May 5, 2026.

In the boys' group A competition, Thailand faced Laos with commanding victories. Prathakorn Pachirut defeated Oudtisai Chantawong 6-0, 6-0 in the second singles match, followed by Theer Sraprasit's 6-3, 6-0 win over Sanasai Chansomphu. In the doubles match, Prathakorn and Oliver Bensen Berkhoudt (Thai-Dutch heritage) won 6-0, 6-1 against Sanasai Chansomphu and Sanusai Pammajak, giving Thailand a clean 3-0 sweep.

Coach Jim (Sahathat Suphakij), the boys' team coach, noted that after two matches, the Thai boys have a 1-1 record and face Singapore in their final group stage match. Singapore also holds a 1-1 record, making the match crucial for advancing to the semifinals. He expressed confidence that all Thai athletes will give their best effort.

The girls' team likewise dominated their group A match against Laos with a 3-0 victory. Loretta Lee Abrahhamsen (Thai-American heritage) defeated Manisorn Pammawong 6-0, 6-0 in the second singles, while Phadchira Holeissakun won 6-0, 6-1 over Siliwed Chanthapon. In doubles, Phadchira and Wimuttinya Phongnoo defeated Manisorn Pammawong and Sonedalah Suksahwan 6-2, 6-0.

Coach Boy (Itthiphon Srisaen), the girls' team coach, stated that Thailand now has a 2-0 record in the group stage. In their final group match, they will face Indonesia, who also has 2-0 wins. Both teams have already secured spots in the semifinals, with their match determining the top two positions in the group.

The Thai national team delegation includes Coach Jim (Sahattat Suphakij) for the boys, Coach Boy (Itthiphon Srisaen) for the girls, Assistant Coach Tum (Anuchit Ruengkon), and Trainer Boonmee Pohphaichit.

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National

Finance Ministry Signals Thai Helping Thai Registration Opening Late May with 30 Million Beneficiaries, Age Eligibility Under Review

Thailand's Finance Ministry approved a 400 billion baht borrowing decree to partly fund the Thai Helping Thai Plus program, with registration expected to open by late May for approximately 30 million beneficiaries. The government is still r

5 May Khaosod

On May 5, 2026 at 13:35 at Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanprasoet announced that the cabinet has approved a 400 billion baht borrowing decree. After publication in the Royal Gazette on May 14th, the decree must go before parliament and be subject to a project screening committee chaired by the Permanent Secretary of the Finance Ministry. The framework emphasizes transparency and information disclosure, with all projects requiring cabinet approval.

When asked whether the borrowing decree would fund the Thai Helping Thai Plus program, Ekniti confirmed it is one project aligned with the objectives of assisting citizens and entrepreneurs, with funding coming partly from this source and partly from a budget reallocation law. He stated the government would gradually borrow funds rather than taking a lump sum to avoid accumulating costs.

Regarding the number of beneficiaries, Ekniti said authorities are still considering the details but preliminary budget projections suggest approximately 30 million entitlements. This number should be sufficient, as previous programs achieved a maximum of 28 million beneficiaries. The question of whether beneficiaries must be over 18 years old requires further review. Registration for state welfare card holders is expected to open simultaneously by late May.

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National

Thai Union Shows Strong First Quarter with 32,000 Million Baht Revenue and Net Profit Exceeding 1,100 Million Baht

Thai Union reported 32 billion baht in first-quarter revenue with net profit of 1.1 billion baht, driven by strong growth in pet food and frozen seafood despite geopolitical challenges and U.S. tariffs.

5 May Khaosod

Thai Union delivered impressive first quarter results with 7.6% growth, supported by strong performance from pet food and frozen seafood businesses, while gross profit surged 29% compared to the previous year. Net profit reached 1,113 million baht. CEO Theeraphong Chansiri of Thai Union Group Public Company Limited stated that first quarter performance reflects effective pricing strategies, strong product portfolio structure, operational discipline, and the company's global business infrastructure and adaptability.

These strengths enabled Thai Union to manage multiple pressures including geopolitical conflicts, import tariffs, and unfavorable exchange rate trends. Despite these challenges, the pet food and frozen seafood businesses continued growing robustly, while transformation costs declined steadily. With this strong foundation, the company is poised to drive further growth in 2025.

Although Thai Union faces cost pressures from U.S. import tariffs, gross profit still grew 3.8% year-over-year to 5,825 million baht with a gross margin of 18.2%, reflecting effective pricing and cost control strategies. Earnings per share reached 0.29 baht, up 18%, primarily due to reduced share count following the share buyback program.

The PetCare business segment performed outstandingly with sales increasing 22.6% year-over-year to 5,115 million baht, driven by strong demand in the U.S. and Europe, recovery in Japan, and rising premium product mix. The Ambient (processed seafood) segment saw sales rise 2.5% to 15,136 million baht through price adjustments offsetting import tariff cost impacts, with volume remaining stable. The Frozen seafood business grew 11.6% to 9,420 million baht from both price increases and volume growth, particularly in shrimp and aquafeed categories. The Value-added products segment declined 1.2% to 2,383 million baht due to weaker U.S. demand and portfolio restructuring.

For 2025, amid volatile global business conditions, Thai Union is closely monitoring U.S. import tariffs, Middle East tensions, and production costs. The company targets 3-4% sales growth, 19-20% gross profit margin, and selling and administrative expenses of 13.5-14.5% of sales, while maintaining commitment to shareholder returns through dividends of no less than 50%.

Theeraphong stated: "First quarter performance reinforces Thai Union's adaptability and validates our transformation strategy. We remain focused on effective pricing strategies, maximizing our global supply chain and production networks, and maintaining operational flexibility to navigate ongoing uncertainties."

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National

SC Launches 'SC IS NOW' Campaign with Discounts Up to 10 Million Baht – Free Living for 3 Years Plus Tesla Worth Nearly 2 Million

SC Asset launches a massive 'SC IS NOW' home-buying campaign May 5-10 offering up to 10 million baht in discounts, three years of free living costs, and a Tesla Model Y worth 1.99 million baht as grand prize across properties nationwide.

5 May Khaosod

SC Asset is launching a major marketing push with the 'SC IS NOW – Buy a Home Now' campaign, offering maximum discounts of 10 million baht, three years of free living expenses covered by SC, free transfer fees, up to five years of free common area maintenance, and a Tesla Model Y valued at 1.99 million baht as the grand prize. The campaign runs May 5-10, 2025 at Central Ladprao Shopping Center, Ground Floor.

Nattakitti Sirirat, Deputy Managing Director of Marketing and Innovation at SC Asset Corporation PLC, revealed that the company is accelerating its real estate market competition by showcasing a comprehensive lineup of single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums across prime locations including Vibhavadi, Rangsit, Ramintra, Kasetnaiwamin, Chaeng Watthana, and Bang Yai. All offerings are consolidated in one venue to give customers complete selection flexibility.

"This is the perfect time to buy a home. Customers will receive the best deal yet, with discounts and benefits we've bundled without any tricks or hidden costs. These types of offers don't come around often. SC wants people looking for a home not to wait, because an offer at this level is the answer to making a decision right now," Nattakitti stated.

The 'SC IS NOW – Buy a Home Now' campaign consolidates comprehensive housing cost benefits in one package, including maximum discounts of 10 million baht, three years of free living expenses paid by SC, free transfer fees, up to five years of free common area fees, plus additional benefits.

These include a Tesla Model Y L Premium worth 1.99 million baht, cashback up to 500,000 baht, fuel vouchers up to 200,000 baht, free utilities for 60 months up to 200,000 baht, one year of free expressway tolls up to 25,000 baht, and consumer products up to 20,000 baht, plus furniture and appliances. The campaign addresses first-time homebuyers, pet owners seeking pet-friendly homes, those looking for properties near international schools, investors, and those seeking lifestyle upgrades.

Nattakitti added that customers who book during the event receive additional on-the-spot privileges, including appliances upon booking and a chance to win gold worth a combined 2 million baht. The campaign covers residential projects priced from 2.09 to 55 million baht, serving first-time home and condo buyers through luxury property seekers.

Special activities will enhance the event experience, with a mini-concert by singer Ink Warunthorn on opening night, May 5, 2025 at 6:00 PM, creating a vibrant atmosphere and reflecting SC's vision of connecting residential living with consumer lifestyle across all dimensions.

The company expects this campaign to significantly accelerate both bookings and transfers in the first half of the year. The promotion applies to customers booking between May 5-10, 2025 and completing transfers by June 30, 2025, establishing a clear and limited timeframe to encourage immediate decision-making.

*Terms and conditions apply as determined by the company.

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National

Nawat Announces MGI Secures Miss Universe Rights for Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos

Miss Grand International has secured Miss Universe franchise rights for Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos, marking a major expansion for the beauty pageant operator in Southeast Asia.

5 May Khaosod

The beauty pageant industry is abuzz with the news that Miss Grand International (MGI) has secured the Miss Universe franchise rights for five Southeast Asian countries: Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos.

Miss Universe Thailand posted an official announcement stating: "Official Announcement: Miss Grand International Public Company Limited has received the rights to manage and operate Miss Universe licenses in 5 countries including Miss Universe Vietnam, Miss Universe Indonesia, Miss Universe Malaysia, Miss Universe Singapore, and Miss Universe Laos."

Nawat Anucha Bhakdi, the company owner, also announced the news on social media, saying "MGI has officially secured Miss Universe rights for Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Laos," while sharing a link detailing MGI's acquisition of the Miss Universe licenses for these five countries.

Fans Express Delight

Beauty pageant enthusiasts flooded the comments section with congratulations and praise, with reactions ranging from "Wow, that's huge!" to "Amazing!" and "Incredible!" expressing their excitement about this major development in the pageant world.

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