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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Strong Backing for Arne Slot: Liverpool Continues Support for Manager with Summer Transfer Budget

Despite a disappointing season and a petition with over one million signatures calling for his removal, Liverpool's board backs manager Arne Slot and plans to provide summer transfer funds, particularly targeting wingers to strengthen the s

12 May Khaosod

Liverpool continues to support manager Arne Slot with the board prepared to provide additional transfer funds for new players in this summer's transfer window.

Slot's Liverpool has delivered a disappointing season, failing to win any major titles and facing a battle to secure Champions League qualification for next season. This poor form has sparked a campaign calling for the 47-year-old manager's removal, which has already accumulated over one million signatures.

Previously, Liverpool was linked with Xabi Alonso, the former Real Madrid manager and former Liverpool player, as a potential replacement should Slot be dismissed. However, renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano recently revealed that Liverpool continues to support Arne Slot with no contact made with Alonso. "As I mentioned two days ago, Xabi Alonso and Liverpool have not held talks. Liverpool supports Arne Slot. Should anything change at the end of the season, I will inform you. For now, Alonso has not spoken with Liverpool and they continue to back Arne Slot. Chelsea has not yet made their decision on who they want," Romano stated.

Meanwhile, David Ornstein from The Athletic reported that Liverpool plans to strengthen the squad this summer to provide players Slot needs. "Liverpool wants to reinforce for Arne Slot during this summer window, particularly in the winger position. I expect one or two signings to arrive. They believe this position is crucial, and once they've strengthened, you'll be able to assess Arne Slot's performance much more fairly. Liverpool will be looking to increase their activity in the transfer market," Ornstein said.

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National

Health Minister Assures Thailand on Hantavirus Monitoring as Tourist Screening Continues

Thailand's Health Minister confirmed that no hantavirus cases have been detected domestically, with only one Singaporean tourist infected in the region currently under quarantine. Authorities are implementing close monitoring of all incoming tourists across all entry points, noting that while the virus can spread between people, transmission is slow and manageable with proper precautions.

12 May Khaosod

At a press conference at Government House on May 12, 2025, Health Minister Pattana Prom-pattana stated that hantavirus has not been found in Thailand. In Southeast Asia, only one Singaporean tourist aboard a cruise ship is under quarantine, urging the public not to panic. The minister emphasized that the Public Health Ministry is closely monitoring the situation along with disease control officials, particularly screening tourists entering Thailand by land, sea, and air. He noted that hantavirus is not a new disease and may have multiple strains, with the identified variant capable of person-to-person transmission, though the spread is not rapid and can be controlled with proper precautions.

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National

Anutin Inspires New Generation of Engineers to Overcome Limitations and Drive National Innovation

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul urged engineering students at Mahidol University to overcome barriers and drive innovation for Thailand's future during the 2026 Engineering Maker Expo on May 12. He emphasized that knowledge, deter

12 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul returned to Mahidol University to inspire the next generation of engineers to transcend all barriers and create innovations that will drive the nation forward at the Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 on May 12, 2026, at the Grand Ballroom of Mahidol Sithakarn Conference Center and Parking Building at Mahidol University's Salaya campus. Anutin participated in the Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 Capstone Project Presentation and delivered a keynote address titled "Beyond Boundaries: Unlimited Engineering," with Mahidol University Rector Prof. Dr. Piyamit Sritara presiding, alongside Engineering Faculty Dean Thanapat Vanichanan, Siam Commercial Bank Chairman Krissana Chantanotok, and Engineering Alumni Association President Thamronkiat Udomsang.

Anutin stated that today's concept of boundless engineering is inspirational, yet we must recognize that knowledge makes all things possible. However, knowledge alone does not guarantee success or happiness in life. We see countless examples of people without substantial financial resources who have achieved success and happiness. Regardless of where we are born or our starting point, we can determine our own life's destination through knowledge and determination. In today's rapidly evolving world, continuous learning and self-development are essential.

Anutin further emphasized the importance of understanding why we learn today, as fundamentals are the foundation for knowledge to grow steadily. When you discover your talents or abilities in any field, seek environments and opportunities that value those strengths and boldly pursue them. He reminded students that even a single individual can transform national crises into opportunities with determination, resolve, and perseverance. Do not let obstacles become limitations on your growth. Every student will be a crucial mechanism in driving Thailand forward sustainably and steadily.

The Mahidol Engineering Maker Expo 2026 "Capstone Project Presentation" is an exhibition showcasing comprehensive engineering projects by fourth-year Engineering Faculty students, who have utilized four years of academic knowledge to create innovations addressing real-world problems in society and industry. The event takes the form of an innovation marketplace, welcoming businesses and investors to view prototypes for business matching and commercial development opportunities. The expo also serves as a networking platform between students and leading companies seeking talented personnel recruitment, effectively transforming pre-graduation projects into concrete career and business opportunities.

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Police

Government Savings Bank Launches "GSB Love Savings" with Free Accident Insurance Coverage Up to 200,000 Baht

Government Savings Bank unveiled "GSB Love Savings," a dedicated account for children from birth to age 10 that includes free accident insurance covering parents up to 200,000 baht and child medical expenses. The account requires deposits a

12 May Khaosod

The Government Savings Bank has launched "GSB Love Savings," a specialized savings account designed for parents to open for their children from birth until age 10. The account includes accident insurance benefits provided by Thai Insurance Public Company Limited for 12 months from account opening, covering both the parent account holder and the child. Parents receive life insurance coverage of up to 200,000 baht in cases of death, limb loss, or permanent disability—calculated as twice the remaining balance on the day before the accident. Children receive medical treatment coverage of up to 1,000 baht per incident when the account balance ranges from 10,000 to 100,000 baht, with no limit on the number of claims. The account offers a competitive interest rate of 0.25% annually with no tax burden, and deposits can start from as little as 1 baht with no maximum limit. Bank Director Songpon Cheevarojanpong stated that GSB is committed to providing financial products and services for all age groups under its "Smart Social Bank for All Lives" initiative. For more information, customers can contact the GSB Contact Center at 1115 or visit www.gsb.or.th.

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Breaking

Festival Fireworks Strike Two Homes in Single Day, Shattering Windows

Fireworks from a traditional rain-requesting festival in Buriram province struck two homes on May 9, damaging windows and prompting residents to call for stricter safety measures or discontinuation of the pyrotechnics component.

12 May Khaosod

Festival fireworks strike two homes in a single day, causing window damage. While residents understand the tradition, they argue that if it poses dangers to the community, the practice should be discontinued. Village officials are prepared to provide compensation.

On May 12, 2569, a reporter received notice from residents in the Sai Seam area, Sai Seam subdistrict, Prakon Chai district, Buriram province, regarding fireworks from a traditional rain-requesting festival that struck two residential buildings within a single day. Upon investigation, the first house sustained clear damage to its window area from a firework strike. A firework approximately 2 inches in diameter, already ignited, was found near the damaged window. The second house had a firework land within its grounds but suffered no damage. Fortunately, no one was injured.

Ms. Thanistha Techakulthanasotp, 32, owner of the damaged house, stated that the incident occurred on May 9, 2569, during a traditional annual merit-making fireworks festival held in Moo 7, Sai Seam subdistrict, about 1 kilometer from her home. She believes the firework came from that event and struck her window. Initially posting on social media because she was unsure which agency would be responsible, she attempted to contact the event organizers but didn't know who to reach. She wants the responsible party to compensate for the damage.

While residents understand that the fireworks festival is a longstanding local tradition, they urge stricter safety measures to prevent future incidents and property damage. If possible, they would prefer the tradition continue without the fireworks component.

When contacted, the village headman of Moo 7 reported that they had seen the social media post about the window damage but had not yet received an official complaint from the homeowner. Once notified, they will contact the insurance company and investigate the affected properties, as the event organizing committee has obtained liability insurance.

The annual merit-making fireworks festival features fireworks offerings to the sky and rain-requesting rituals according to local beliefs. This year's event included 22 fireworks, each approximately 2 inches in diameter, launched by various communities, groups, and young workers from other areas. The Sai Seam Subdistrict Administrative Organization provided budgetary support for the event.

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National

Senate Urges Government to Reconsider Land Bridge Project, Cites Major Obstacles and Questions SEC Law as a Silver Bullet

Thailand's Senate held discussions on the Land Bridge megaproject connecting the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, identifying significant obstacles and calling for comprehensive government review and legal amendments. Senate members stressed that the Special Economic Corridor law alone cannot guarantee success and questioned whether the project's economic assumptions align with actual shipper needs. The committee emphasized that project viability depends on operational efficiency and competitive logistics management, not just infrastructure construction.

12 May Khaosod

The Senate met on May 12, 2025, to review a feasibility study on the Land Bridge project, which aims to develop transportation infrastructure connecting the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea to boost the southern economic corridor. Senator Norrasetr Pratchyakorn proposed a motion requesting the government to reconsider the project's advancement. Senate Transportation Committee Chair Wuthichai Kalyanamit reported that the committee found the Land Bridge significant and has monitored its development comprehensively across policy, technical, economic, and operational feasibility dimensions to ensure maximum national benefit.

Senator Phamornchai Chaosirikul, chairing the water transport and maritime commerce subcommittee, noted the project has been pursued since 2001 under former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aiming to bring prosperity to the southern region. The committee gathered input from government agencies, private sector, academics, logistics operators, and stakeholders. They determined that the Land Bridge is not merely a port construction or transport route but a comprehensive logistics system requiring integrated operations across multiple timeframes and economic assumptions, with consideration of infrastructure readiness and real-world operational constraints.

Project success depends not only on infrastructure investment but also on system management efficiency, transport process continuity, and competitive standards compared to international ports and logistics hubs. Senator Praphan Lohaviriyasiree, another subcommittee member, emphasized that proposing the Land Bridge requires analyzing costs, time savings, and competitiveness from shippers' and shipping lines' perspectives, along with identifying project limitations and projecting cargo volume. Multiple study scenarios are needed to ensure feasibility, with approximately 80% of cargo being transshipment cargo, making smooth transshipment operations critical to success.

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Regional

Libong Island Coral Bleaching Reaches 80% as Seawater Temperatures Soar; Fears of Crisis Similar to 2010

Libong Island in Trang Province is experiencing severe coral bleaching affecting 80% of its reefs due to dangerously high seawater temperatures linked to global warming. Tourism operators fear the bleaching could intensify to 90% within two weeks if rainfall doesn't cool the waters, potentially creating an environmental crisis similar to the devastating 2010 bleaching event. Experts warn that without temperature relief, marine life may abandon the area entirely as coral ecosystems collapse.

12 May Khaosod

Trang — Residents and tourism operators around Libong Island in Kantang District, a renowned conservation area in Trang Province known for its abundant dugongs and seagrass beds, are increasingly concerned about coral bleaching occurring across Trang's waters due to ongoing global warming. The phenomenon has been accelerating since early May as seawater temperatures rise daily. Latest reports show bleaching affecting approximately 80% of the coral.

Jittapol Tan-anusoron, a prominent Trang tourism businessman who filmed the coral bleaching near Le Dunk Libong Resort at Haad Lang Khao beach on Libong Island after tidal waters receded, reports that the affected corals are primarily shallow-water species including rock corals, staghorn corals, and brain corals.

He predicts that if May passes without significant rainfall or temperature decrease, bleaching could expand to over 90% of the reef. "Within the next two weeks, bleaching will likely spread throughout Haad Lang Khao. Shallow corals, especially during low tide when intense sunlight and heat beat down, experience water temperatures like they're being boiled. Two years ago we had bleaching too, but nature recovered quickly in 4-5 months. This year it's critical—if rain doesn't come soon to cool the water, it will worsen severely. All the coral will bleach, and marine life won't enter the area because the water is too hot, the coral dies, and there's no food from algae covering the reef," he warned.

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National

South Korea Blacklists Four Thai Provinces, Bans Agricultural and Fishing Labor Imports Throughout 2025

South Korea has blacklisted four northeastern Thai provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham—banning the import of agricultural and fishing workers for the entire year of 2025. The action follows incidents of Thai workers fleeing their employers under seasonal work visa agreements. Thailand's Department of Employment has confirmed the blacklist measure, which takes effect from January 1 through December 31, 2025.

12 May Khaosod

South Korea has blacklisted four Thai provinces, banning agricultural and fishing labor imports throughout 2025, according to confirmation from Thailand's Department of Employment. On May 12, 2025, Thailand's Anti-Fake News Center confirmed that South Korea has added four Thai provinces to its blacklist, prohibiting the import of seasonal agricultural and fishing workers (E-8 visas) for the entire year of 2025. The Department of Employment verified this news on May 11, 2025.

The action stems from cases of Thai workers engaged in seasonal agricultural and fishing work under bilateral labor agreements who fled their employers. These workers were sent from four northeastern provinces—Udon Thani, Khon Kaen, Chaiyaphum, and Maha Sarakham. In response, the South Korean government implemented blacklist measures against workers who violated employment contracts and suspended all worker imports from these four provinces for one year, from January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Those interested in working abroad can find information about applications, schedules, and application procedures on the Thai Overseas Employment Administration website at doe.go.th/overseas or on their Facebook page: Thai Overseas Employment Administration. For additional information, contact provincial employment offices or Bangkok employment offices (Areas 1-10) under the Thai Overseas Employment Administration at telephone number 02-245-6708 or hotline 1506, extension 2, Department of Employment.

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National

Buzz Over Pope Leo XIV's Nike Sneakers Goes Viral as Internet Users Share Photos Constantly

Pope Leo XIV sparked a worldwide online sensation after appearing in white Nike sneakers in a Vatican documentary trailer, a departure from papal dress traditions. The Chicago-born pontiff's casual footwear choice quickly went viral, generating both praise for his modern style and criticism from those who felt it undermined the sacred nature of his position, sparking humorous memes and debate across social media platforms.

12 May Khaosod

Pope Leo XIV became an internet sensation after a clip from Vatican News's documentary "Leone a Roma" revealed a brief moment showing him wearing white Nike sneakers under his traditional white papal vestments, prompting widespread sharing and discussion online.

The documentary trailer was officially released on May 6 to celebrate the first anniversary of his election as Pope. The content traces the life journey of Robert Francis Prevost before becoming Pope Leo XIV, covering nearly 20 years of his life in Rome. However, instead of focusing on the documentary's content, the online world became fixated on a brief scene revealing white sneakers peeking out from beneath the papal robes. Many joked that internet users were "zooming in on the shoes like fashion detectives at Paris Fashion Week" trying to identify the exact model.

The buzz intensified when prominent sneaker news account @KicksFinder posted: "Pope Leo XIV, originally from Chicago, wearing Nike in the Leone a Roma documentary trailer by Vatican News." The post was widely shared.

According to Vatican tradition, popes typically wear red leather shoes symbolizing "the blood of martyrdom" and Christ's sacrifice. Pope Benedict XVI was notably remembered for his striking red shoes, while Pope Francis chose simple black shoes to reflect humility and modesty. Pope Leo XIV's appearance in Nike sneakers represents a departure from previous papal leaders' fashion choices and sparked immediate online debate. Some viewed it as a modern and more relatable look, while others criticized it as inappropriate for religious leadership, with comments like "I don't think he should wear something like that" and "wearing a famous brand doesn't seem sacred as it reflects materialism's dark side."

Despite criticism, many internet users loved the look, with comments such as "He has great style" and "You can take the kid out of Chicago, but you can't take Nike out of the kid." Viral jokes followed, including "Nike is blessed now" and "Air x Popes coming soon to a store near you," making this brief moment from the documentary go viral globally in no time.

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Police

Victim Files Complaint Against Prominent Company Executive for Hit-and-Run While Drunk, Then Assaults Victim in Bangkok

A prominent company executive hit a Bangkok merchant's car while drunk, fled the scene, then assaulted him when confronted—later claiming he simply went to the wrong hotel and filing a counter-complaint against the victim.

12 May Khaosod

At 10:00 AM on May 12, 2569, Ekalak, a renowned online merchant, submitted CCTV footage to the "Sai Maai Tong Raad" page after being hit from behind by a prominent company executive's car who fled the scene. The victim also claims to have been challenged to fight and pressured through police officers. The incident occurred on the night of January 7, 2569, at the Prasert Manukij intersection. Ekalak stated that while stopped at a red light, he was suddenly hit hard from behind by a Toyota. When he got out to negotiate, he found the driver—wearing a black shirt—was heavily intoxicated. Instead of apologizing, the driver became aggressive, grabbed him, and hurled insults. When the victim tried to record video evidence, the driver challenged him: "Do you want to fight me?" and threatened: "I have connections." This led to a confrontation on the street. When rescue volunteers asked the driver to move his car aside to wait for police, the driver instead took advantage of the chaos, sped away, and fled without leaving insurance information or waiting for police. The victim submitted medical examination documents and filed a police report at Lad Phrao Police Station. After the incident, the suspect disappeared for three days before appearing at the police station, oddly claiming he hadn't fled but had simply gone to the wrong hotel. This raised suspicion that he was buying time for his blood alcohol content to decrease. Ekalak further stated that he not only failed to receive justice initially but was also approached by a police officer at a hotel who attempted to mediate and persuade him not to pursue the case. He later discovered this officer had a close relationship with the suspect. Additionally, when threatened with reporting to the company, the suspect's lawyer confidently responded: "Go ahead, they'll drop the case themselves anyway." The suspect even filed a counter-complaint alleging assault against the victim, despite being the aggressor. Nirun Kaaengew from the "Sai Maai Tong Raad" team stated the case has clear evidence including drunk driving, hit-and-run, and assault, and they are coordinating with Lad Phrao Police Station's superintendent to push the case to resolution and investigate the officer's interference to restore justice for the victim.

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Breaking

MV Hondius evacuation ends as hantavirus monitoring continues

The evacuation of the cruise ship MV Hondius is complete, with all passengers and crew safely removed following a deadly hantavirus outbreak that claimed three lives and infected several others. Multiple countries coordinated repatriation efforts, with passengers now undergoing 42-day quarantine protocols as health authorities monitor those showing symptoms. The WHO has confirmed seven cases of Andes hantavirus among those who were aboard the vessel during its 41-day voyage from Argentina.

12 May Khaosod

TENERIFE — 12 May 2026, All passengers and crew aboard the cruise ship MV Hondius have now been evacuated following an outbreak of hantavirus that left three people dead and several others infected, while health authorities continue monitoring passengers who have begun showing symptoms after returning home.

The final group of six passengers, along with some crew members, disembarked off the coast of Tenerife, Spain, on 11 May, marking the end of a complex international evacuation operation. The group included four Australians, one British resident of Australia and one New Zealander, who were later transferred to the Netherlands for quarantine.

Governments including Spain, France, Canada, Britain and the United States arranged charter flights to repatriate citizens after the outbreak aboard the vessel. In total, 94 passengers and crew members were returned to their home countries following the ship's 41-day voyage from southern Argentina. The final evacuation flight departed Tenerife around midday on 11 May local time.

The Dutch Foreign Ministry said 19 crew members and three doctors who remained on board to care for passengers had already arrived in the Netherlands. The MV Hondius, carrying the remaining 26 crew members, is now heading to the Netherlands for disinfection.

The first positive hantavirus test aboard the vessel was reported nine days ago. The World Health Organization (WHO) has advised all passengers to quarantine for 42 days from 10 May because the virus can incubate for up to six weeks. However, quarantine measures vary between countries.

Spanish passengers are required to remain in hospital quarantine for 42 days. French passengers must stay under hospital observation for 72 hours before continuing isolation at home for a further 45 days. American passengers may choose between home quarantine or isolation at a facility in Nebraska.

Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO director for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and prevention, said passengers should undergo daily health monitoring either at home or in designated quarantine facilities, depending on national guidelines.

WHO said seven confirmed cases of Andes hantavirus have been identified, along with two additional suspected cases. One suspected patient died before testing could be carried out, while the other is on Tristan da Cunha, a remote island in the South Atlantic without local testing facilities.

The death toll remains at three, including two Dutch passengers and one German passenger.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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