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Community

Sokgood AnGreen Bustling with Customers Buying Curry Rice for 30 Baht to Help the World

A charitable food initiative called "30 Baht Curry Rice to Help the World" has launched at Sokgood AnGreen restaurant in Khao Yai, Nakhon Ratchasima, offering affordable meals to struggling workers and residents during difficult economic times. Operating daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, the program includes waste reduction incentives and community self-service principles. The initiative, created by the Food Fighters team, aims to support low-income earners affected by rising living costs, high fuel prices, and global conflicts.

1 May Khaosod

May 1, 2025 – At Sokgood AnGreen in Khao Yai, kilometer 18 on the Thanarat-Khao Yai Road, Muang Si Subdistrict, Pak Chong District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, the atmosphere is bustling with activity. Local residents and workers in the Khao Yai area have been streaming in to purchase curry rice through the "30 Baht Curry Rice to Help the World" initiative, timed to coincide with Labor Day holidays and extended breaks to help ease household expenses amid economic hardship caused by high oil prices and the Middle East conflict.

The "30 Baht Curry Rice" concept originated from the Food Fighters team, who previously worked during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. The team has since relocated to Khao Yai and, witnessing the current economic crisis with soaring cost of living, decided to prepare affordable curry rice to assist low-income residents, officially launching on Labor Day as "workers' curry rice."

Ms. Puncharoen Wattanasetthirun, chairperson of the Khao Yai Tourism Association and former head of the Food Fighters team, revealed that due to the current economic downturn, high fuel prices, and Middle Eastern conflicts, tourism in the Khao Yai area has declined significantly, driving up living costs while income drops. The team sought ways to help low-income earners, workers, and general residents access affordable meals, guided by the principle of "leaving no one behind."

The initiative received excellent response with many residents and hotel staff using the service. The program incorporates waste reduction principles—customers who bring their own containers receive a discount, and all customers must sort their own waste and serve themselves as a form of mutual assistance. The organizers invite everyone to support the "30 Baht Curry Rice to Help the World" program, available daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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Police

Hit-and-run driver who struck Associate Professor Surasawat while cycling turns himself in

The driver in a fatal hit-and-run that killed Chiang Mai University Associate Professor Surasawat Sukswasdi while he was cycling has surrendered to police. The incident sparked calls from cycling groups for enhanced safety measures across C

1 May Khaosod

The driver responsible for the fatal hit-and-run that killed Associate Professor Surasawat Sukswasdi has surrendered to Chang Phueak Police Station. The senior lecturer at Chiang Mai University's Faculty of Fine Arts was struck by a vehicle while cycling at the 700-Year Stadium on the morning of April 28. He suffered multiple fractures and died before reaching Nakhon Ping Hospital. A merit-making ceremony was held at Wat Pa Paeng in Chiang Mai's city district, with a royal cremation ceremony scheduled for May 2. On May 1, Chiang Mai Provincial Police Commander Yutthana Kaenjanchan announced that the driver had turned himself in to investigation officers at Chang Phueak Police Station. Police are proceeding with legal action. Cycling groups have taken to social media demanding that Chiang Mai's governor and relevant authorities implement enhanced safety measures for cyclists. The Sunday Cycling Club is being urged to mobilize support for provincial-level safety policies to protect cyclists in Chiang Mai.

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Regional

Prabsaek Challenges Siwanat in Super Fight Showdown at Sanam Luang Muay Thai Stadium

Prabsaek and Siwanat face off Saturday in a 134-pound super fight at Sanam Luang, pitting the young clinch specialist's power against the technical striker's heavy weapons. The bout airs live on TrueVisions Channel 24 at 2:30 PM.

1 May Khaosod

Which fighter will prevail—the one with lightning reflexes or the one with raw power? The Kiaratpetch TrueVisions Super Fight on Saturday, May 2nd is a must-watch for muay thai enthusiasts, featuring a headline bout at 134 pounds at Sanam Luang Muay Thai Stadium.

Prabsaek, trained under Kaew Prapol, is a 20-year-old warrior from Ubon with a big lung capacity and exceptional power. His trademark is a tight, explosive clinch game, and he returns fully recovered and ready to dominate from the opening round.

Siwanat, trained by Naik E Tasala, is a skilled technician from Nakhon Si Thammarat currently in red-hot form. He recently pulled off an upset victory over Sakdi Chai Noi and possesses heavy, disruptive weapons in his punches, kicks, and elbows—any of which could end the fight at any moment.

Who will emerge victorious? Join us Saturday for an explosive battle between a devastating clinch fighter and a heavy-hitting striker. Live broadcast on TrueVisions Channel 24 and True Visions NOW beginning at 2:30 PM.

Fans can also subscribe to the Now Muay Thai package to watch live muay thai seven days a week with 13 live events daily and access to over 2,000 hours of archive footage. Subscribe today for just 99 baht per month with Thai commentary from TrueVisions' top-tier broadcasting team. Stream on all your devices—mobile, tablet, Apple TV, Android TV, and Smart TV. Payment options include credit cards, TrueMoney Wallet, and True bill.

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National

Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin Launches RMUTR Research & IP Expo 2026 to Drive Commercial Innovation

Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin launched the RMUTR Research & IP Expo 2026 to promote the commercialization of research and innovations into practical products and business models. The event, held on April 30, 2026, featured exhibitions, innovation competitions, and pitching sessions aimed at connecting university research with industry partners and entrepreneurs. The university emphasized its commitment to translating laboratory research into tangible economic and social value through strategic partnerships and intellectual property development.

1 May Khaosod

Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin Launches RMUTR Research & IP Expo 2026 to Drive Commercial Innovation

April 30, 2026 – Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin, led by Rector Assoc. Prof. Dr. Udomvithai Chaiskulkierat, welcomed participants and highlighted the importance of the 2026 Research, Innovation, Invention, Creative Works, and Intellectual Property Exhibition (RMUTR Research & IP Expo 2026).

The opening ceremony was presided over by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Pulsak Kosiyaphon, Deputy Director of the Office of the National Research Council of Thailand, held at Rama Gardens Hotel in Bangkok. This event represents a crucial platform for driving the university's research and innovation agenda.

The university aims to advance research knowledge, develop it further, and apply it practically, particularly by commercializing research outcomes and innovations. This effort creates added value for the university's knowledge, technology, and innovations, transforming them into products, services, processes, and business models that address industry, community, and societal needs.

The university prioritizes translating research from laboratories into practical applications by establishing collaborative networks with entrepreneurs, private sector partners, and government agencies. These partnerships facilitate commercialization, investment, intellectual property protection, and future revenue generation, ultimately strengthening competitive capabilities and supporting the country's sustainable economic and social development.

The event features exhibitions of research work, inventions, innovations, creative projects, and intellectual property, alongside innovation competitions, project pitching presentations, and awards ceremonies honoring outstanding researchers and organizations. The event serves as both a recognition platform and a networking forum for researchers and external partners to explore commercial and societal applications of research outcomes.

The rector expressed gratitude to all supporting organizations, faculty members, researchers, staff, students, entrepreneurs, and distinguished guests who contributed to advancing the university's research and innovation initiatives. He expressed hope that this event will serve as a valuable opportunity to connect research outcomes with businesses and industries, fostering collaboration, investment, and commercial development that will sustainably create economic, social, and national value.

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Police

Police Arrest Woman Illegally Selling Electronic Cigarettes Online, Seize Large Cache

Police arrested a 32-year-old Bangkok woman and seized 2,535 electronic cigarettes from her apartment after investigating illegal online sales conducted through social media.

1 May Khaosod

May 1, 2026 – Under the direction of Pol. Col. Thanyaphat Bunsuk, superintendent of Police Division 4, and commanding Pol. Lt. Nattapong Suratsingh, officers from Police Division 4 arrested 32-year-old Mantana and seized a total of 2,535 electronic cigarette units. The arrest took place at an apartment on Soi 20, Mitthanom Road, Samsennok Sub-district, Huai Khwang District, Bangkok at 4:00 p.m. on April 30.

The investigation began when police discovered illegal online sales of electronic cigarettes through the application X-Twitter. Undercover officers made a purchase and confirmed the package contained electronic cigarettes. After tracing the delivery through a private courier company and reviewing CCTV footage, officers identified and apprehended Mantana as she prepared packages for shipment.

During questioning, Mantana admitted to packaging and selling electronic cigarettes to online customers. Police searched her apartment and discovered additional electronic cigarette inventory stored for distribution. Authorities have charged her with selling and distributing electronic cigarettes in violation of the Consumer Protection Act (No. 4) B.E. 2562, smuggling goods without proper customs clearance under the Customs Act B.E. 2560, and possession of untaxed or insufficiently taxed goods under the Excise Tax Act B.E. 2560. She has been transferred to Suththisan Police Station for further investigation and legal proceedings.

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National

Yutthasak and Julphand Elevate Thai Workforce into Quality Human Capital, Driving the Nation Through AI and Cost-of-Living Crisis Toward High-Income Economy

Thai government officials launched a workforce development program at Siam Square on Labour Day, emphasizing the need to transform workers into quality human capital through upskilling and resilience-building amid AI advancement and rising

1 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Yutthasak Sobhawisut and Labor Minister Julphand Amornvivat, partnered with Chulalongkorn University, transformed Siam Square Walking Street into a platform of opportunity to elevate Thai workers into quality human capital and drive the nation through AI and cost-of-living crises toward a sustainable high-income economy.

On May 1 at the Siam Square Walking Street event, Deputy PM Yutthasak opened the "Siam Square Walking Street For All: Chulalongkorn Cares for Strong Thai Workers Year 2" program alongside Labor Minister Julphand Amornvivat.

Yutthasak stated that on the occasion of National Labor Day, it was time for Thailand to shift its perspective from the term "labor" to comprehensive human capital management, as all Thai people represent the nation's most valuable resource.

He emphasized the need to shift strategy from reactive to proactive approaches to support and care for people of all ages—from youth working to support themselves through education to elderly citizens brimming with potential—amid rising living costs, AI technology, and the transition to a green society.

The nation must accelerate preparedness and build resilience in human capital to navigate rapid global changes. This mission requires collaboration across all sectors, particularly educational institutions that bring knowledge to communities, elevate society, and inspire young generations to develop their localities while transforming crisis into opportunity, building new infrastructure, and driving the country toward sustainable high-income growth.

"I extend my heartfelt encouragement and profound admiration to all workers, as you are the most crucial mechanism and heart in driving our economy and truly shaping Thailand's future," Yutthasak said.

Labor Minister Julphand noted that National Labor Day reflects workers' crucial role in the economy amid challenges from energy crises and AI technology. Upskilling and reskilling have become urgent priorities to enhance workers' capabilities to meet rapid changes. The government is committed to developing human capital, strengthening skills and lifelong learning to create security and drive sustainable national progress.

The "Siam Square Walking Street For All: Chulalongkorn Cares for Strong Thai Workers Year 2" event offered comprehensive health services including blood tests, dental health checks, and disease risk screenings with health counseling.

Additionally, mental health services through stress assessment and counseling were provided alongside consultations on labor rights, welfare, and relevant laws, as well as vocational skill development and entertainment activities aimed at comprehensively improving workers' quality of life.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Community Plans Merit-Making Ceremony for Ancient Skeletal Remains Unearthed in Field, Found Wearing Gold Bracelet

Ancient skeletal remains and gold ornaments dating back 1,500-2,000 years have been discovered in a rice field in Phetchaburi province, along with six bronze drums. The landowner and local residents plan to conduct a merit-making ceremony on May 7 to honor the remains. The discovery has sparked local interest as it represents the first significant archaeological finding in the area.

1 May Khaosod

The landowner and local residents are preparing to hold a merit-making ceremony dedicated to ancient skeletal remains and artifacts discovered in a rice field in Moo 6, Ban Don Plab, Samo Phloem subdistrict, Ban Lad district, Phetchaburi province. On May 1, 2569, a gold bracelet was found attached to the wrist of a human skeleton estimated to be 1,500-2,000 years old, from the pre-historic through Dvaravati cultural periods. Six ancient bronze drums have been discovered buried underground in the same location.

Landowner Jen Phechasud revealed that the excavation site was previously used for rice farming. The discovery began when an outsider used a metal detector to scan the area and uncovered ancient artifacts. The items were then examined by a Phetchaburi Rajabhat University professor, who confirmed they were ancient Mohara drums, leading to ongoing excavations that eventually revealed ancient gold ornaments and skeletal remains. The landowner expressed happiness about the discovery but said future actions would require consultation with authorities.

Village leader Narongchai Sukprasong noted that this discovery is exceptionally valuable, as no previous findings of this magnitude had been reported by locals. Local folklore mentions "Donyai Thong" (Golden Grandmother), suggesting the area's name may relate to historical treasure. The landowner, residents, and village officials plan to hold a merit-making ceremony dedicated to the remains, scheduled for May 7.

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Tourism

World-Class Mud Run Festival Set to Make a Splash with Expected Revenue of Over 150 Million Baht

Thailand will host the prestigious 2026 Pattaya Tough Mudder obstacle course race in May, marking the country's first international-caliber event of its kind. The festival is expected to draw over 2,000 athletes from more than 20 countries with projected economic impact exceeding 150 million baht. The event aligns with Thailand's sports tourism strategy and features world-class mud and obstacle challenges designed to test teamwork, physical endurance, and mental resilience.

1 May Khaosod

Thailand is set to host the prestigious 2026 Pattaya Tough Mudder, the country's first international-caliber obstacle course mud run festival, expecting over 2,000 international athletes from more than 20 countries and generating approximately 150 million baht in economic activity. The event was officially announced on May 1, 2026 at Eastpana Hotel in Sri Racha, Chachoengsao, with government officials including Pattarachai Singhawaree from the convention and exhibition promotion office and Isra Charoen-char, Deputy Governor of Chachoengsao Province, expressing the region's readiness to host this world-class sporting event. The 2026 Pattaya Tough Mudder will take place at Wisdom Valley in Chachoengsao on Saturday, May 2, aligned with Thailand's sports tourism policy to establish the country as an international sports tourism destination. The event features world-class obstacle courses and mud challenges designed to test participants' physical strength, mental resilience, and teamwork capabilities, with race options ranging from 5K to overnight endurance challenges. Tough Mudder's core philosophy emphasizes teamwork and community, welcoming ordinary people with extraordinary fighting spirit to conquer obstacles and push their limits together. The event is organized by the Convention and Exhibition Promotion Office, Chachoengsao Province, and Spartan Thailand, with support from sponsors including Shokubutsu, Raw Recovery, Pocari Sweat, Ginzy, Eastpana Hotel, and The Movement Playground.

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Breaking

Storms damage more than 350 homes in Khon Kaen, evacuation sites prepared

Severe summer storms have damaged over 350 homes across Mueang Khon Kaen district, with Don Han experiencing the most significant impact. Authorities have established evacuation centres and deployed round-the-clock emergency response teams across all subdistricts to assist affected residents and monitor ongoing unstable weather conditions.

1 May Khaosod

KHON KAEN — 1 May 2026, Authorities in Khon Kaen are accelerating assistance to more than 350 households after overnight summer storms battered the area, prompting orders for all districts to identify safe zones and evacuate residents from high-risk locations as unstable weather continues.

Pichai Wanta, district chief of Mueang Khon Kaen, said rapid response units and volunteer defence personnel are coordinating with local administrative organisations across all 17 subdistricts to survey damage and assist affected residents. The storms brought strong winds and heavy rain, damaging homes across multiple areas.

Initial assessments indicate that more than 200 homes were damaged in Don Han alone.

"Overall, in Mueang Khon Kaen district, more than 350 households have been affected by storms over the past two days. The most severe impact was in Don Han," he said. "In urban areas, damage has been more limited, mostly involving fallen signage, trees blocking roads, and downed electricity poles."

Municipalities and subdistrict administrative organisations have been instructed to complete damage assessments and report findings to the district office to facilitate assistance in accordance with Ministry of Interior regulations, with further coordination involving the Red Cross.

Authorities across all subdistricts and the Khon Kaen Municipality have prepared designated safe locations to serve as evacuation centres and temporary shelters. Officials will continue monitoring conditions throughout the weekend.

Each subdistrict has deployed officials, including assistant district officers, to remain on standby and provide immediate assistance in the event of further storms or strong winds, operating around the clock. Residents experiencing delays or gaps in assistance have been advised to contact the Mueang Khon Kaen district office directly for urgent support.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Crowds flock to Bang Saen beach, spending stays muted

Bang Saen beach drew massive crowds on Labour Day, but vendors reported weak spending as families cut budgets ahead of the new school term.

1 May Khaosod

CHONBURI — May 1, 2026: Bang Saen beach drew massive crowds on National Labour Day, creating traffic jams and packed shorelines, though vendors reported subdued spending as families tightened budgets ahead of the new school term.

At 15:30, reporters observed heavy traffic leading to Bang Saen and along the beachfront, with visitors from multiple provinces converging in large numbers. Picnic areas overflowed with families dining together while sunbeds were nearly fully occupied. Many adults and children braved the heat to swim and cool off in the sea.

Thanaphon Wannapong, 42, a drinks vendor, said visitor numbers appeared high but fell short of last year's Labour Day crowds. "Normally it would be completely packed and business would be booming," he explained, noting that weaker sales this year stemmed from parents setting aside money for school fees and uniforms.

Anan Piamprasert, 50, who rents inflatable rings, reported a sharp income drop. On typical holidays he earns 4,000–5,000 baht daily, but is now bringing in around 1,000 baht on busy days and as little as 400 baht on weekdays. He blamed the decline on rising travel costs and families cutting back before the school term begins.

Yutthaphum Surisan, 31, a visitor from Min Buri, said he brought his family to Bang Saen for its convenient location and appealing atmosphere. Despite traffic congestion and parking challenges, he found the trip worthwhile, highlighting the affordable food and refreshing sea as perfect for a summer escape.

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National

Settha Points to Wealth Migration as Opportunity for Thailand to Become Economic Hub

Former Prime Minister Settha Thavisin argues that Thailand should leverage the global wealth migration trend to become an economic hub rather than merely a safe haven, noting that over 142,000 ultra-high-net-worth individuals are expected to relocate in 2025. While Thailand is increasingly attracting foreign residents and investors, particularly through its Long-Term Resident Visa program, he emphasizes the nation must develop clear policies, improve infrastructure, and elevate workforce skills to achieve sustainable long-term investment. Thavisin warns that success should ultimately be measured by how much Thai citizens benefit from this economic transformation.

1 May Khaosod

Former Prime Minister Settha Thavisin has identified the global wealth migration trend as a significant economic phenomenon that presents Thailand with an opportunity to advance the nation, provided it can transition from being a 'safe haven' to becoming a genuine 'economic hub'.

According to Henley & Partners data, over 142,000 ultra-high-net-worth individuals are expected to relocate globally in 2025—the highest number on record. This reflects structural changes in the global economy, where capital and individuals have greater freedom to choose their residence and investment base. "This isn't merely about people relocating," Thavisin noted, "but rather international competition to attract talented individuals, capital, and economic opportunities."

Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Australia have become prime destinations for wealth migration by building confidence through consistent policies, tax frameworks, and quality of life. For Thailand, Thavisin observed that "Thailand is increasingly appearing on the radar of this migration trend, reflected in rising foreign demand for residential properties, particularly in Bangkok and Phuket, as well as growing interest in the Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa) program, which has attracted tens of thousands of applicants in recent years according to BOI data."

However, Thailand must still develop further to transform from a temporary "stopover" into a long-term investment destination. "Countries that attract long-term capital aren't risk-free countries, but rather predictable ones with consistent rules and credibility," Thavisin stated.

World Bank and Bank of Thailand data show that capital flowing into developing countries tends to be short-term portfolio flows rather than direct foreign investment (FDI)—a critical challenge Thailand must address to improve the quality of inbound capital.

Thavisin emphasized that this transformation extends beyond merely attracting foreign capital; it requires Thailand's readiness to support a "new economic paradigm" connected to the global world and driven by new skill sets. However, data from the National Economic and Social Development Council reveals that over 70% of Thai workers remain in low-to-medium skill categories. The council warned: "If Thailand doesn't accelerate workforce skill development and create linkages between global capital and domestic talent, it could lead to wider inequality. Overall, Thailand must envision itself as a future metropolitan nation and cultivate a metropolitan mindset among its people simultaneously."

From a policy perspective, Thavisin recommends that the public sector accelerate creation of clear and consistent frameworks, invest in infrastructure, and develop workforce skills, while the private and educational sectors must collaborate to enhance Thai human capital competitiveness in the new economy.

"The question isn't whether Thailand can be a safe haven, but how we can advance toward becoming an economic hub and ensure Thai people grow alongside this transformation," he concluded.

Thavisin also noted that success in the wealth migration era shouldn't be measured solely by the number of people or capital flowing in, but by the increased opportunities and wealth that Thai citizens gain from this change.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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