Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Suthermpanth revealed that she presided as witness to the MOU signing ceremony on April 29 to prevent and suppress the use of Thai nationals as nominees (Nominee). The ceremony was attended by Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob, Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Panyacharoen, and Public Health Minister Pattana Promphant at the Santitham Building, Government House. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul assigned Supachee as witness to the MOU signing, executed under the concept of "erasing economic divisions and defeating nominees." This marks a significant moment in Thai history as 23 public and private organizations committed to establishing mechanisms for monitoring, prevention, prosecution, and legal action against those engaged in nominee schemes and money laundering. The MOU signing today is not merely symbolic but a joint declaration of intent to safeguard the nation's economy.

"Nominees and shell companies have long been problems causing severe damage to security, society, commerce, and investment dimensions," Supachee stated. The MOU aims to "create opportunities for Thai people" and "reduce inequality" through three primary missions: 1) Integrating databases by linking financial trails, land and property ownership across public and private agencies systematically; 2) Creating surveillance mechanisms to jointly prevent, suppress, and prosecute offenders seriously and thoroughly, eliminating patterns of arrest avoidance or case dismissals; 3) Building confidence among Thai and international citizens that Thailand seriously suppresses wrongdoing while supporting legitimate businesses, encouraging honest entrepreneurs to thrive while the state stands ready to eliminate unscrupulous operators using strict legal enforcement. This mechanism will establish credibility for the investment sector and provide a foundation for foreign investors to choose Thailand as their investment base, transforming incorrect trade and investment practices into correct ones, and converting concealment into transparency.

Supachee emphasized that the mission requires cooperation from all 23 organizations including the Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, National Police Office, Anti-Money Laundering Office, Bank of Thailand, Board of Investment, Internal Security Command, Department of Business Development, Revenue Department, Customs Department, Special Investigation Bureau, Department of Land, Department of Tourism, Department of Employment, Department of Industrial Works, Department of National Parks, Department of Agricultural Extension, Office of the Trade Competition Commission, Office of the Food and Drug Administration, and the Industrial Product Standards Office.

Kulaya Tantitamit has submitted her resignation as Commissioner of the Revenue Department, effective May 1, denying reports of Bank of Thailand or monetary policy committee appointments while discussing her post-retirement plans.

On April 29, Ms. Kulaya revealed that she has decided to submit her resignation from government service, which has been approved by the Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary, taking effect from May 1. She has also resigned from all board positions, including Thai Airways Public Company Limited, SCB Ex Public Company Limited (SCBX), and Siam Commercial Bank (SCB).

Ms. Kulaya described her decision as a conscious choice to rest after dedicating herself to hard work for many years, characterizing it as early retirement (early retirement) while approximately 54 years old.

"Life still has many other aspects to explore, and I want to take time to rest before embarking on new endeavors," Ms. Kulaya said.

She stated that she has no intention of returning to full-time work in the future, preferring to focus on other life priorities, but plans instead to serve as director or consultant for various private sector organizations.

Ms. Kulaya denied reports about taking a position with the Bank of Thailand or serving on the monetary policy committee, which had been circulated earlier.

Reports indicate that Deputy Revenue Commissioner Phanuwat Luangwilai is expected to assume acting commissioner duties following Ms. Kulaya's departure. Policy circles anticipate a new permanent commissioner will be appointed soon to carry forward important initiatives, as significant matters still require handover to new leadership, particularly items for Cabinet submission such as revenue collection, tax reduction measures, and withholding tax issues related to e-Withholding Tax, as well as foundation-related matters.

It was reported that on April 3, Ms. Kulaya had previously submitted a resignation letter, but it was held back by Lawaron Saengsnit, Permanent Secretary of the Finance Ministry, who asked her to reconsider. She has now resubmitted her resignation.

Daily headaches aside, many have previously confused singer Petch Saharat's appearance with Ben Chalalatith. For soft-voiced singer Win Vekin Simavora, owner of the touching song "Not Number One," who recently stepped back from performing to guest on MV TV's drama "Golden Branch Changes Color (2)," a surprise has left him utterly bewildered when a netizen commented with harsh accusations about singing in Cambodia and changing careers.

The singer had to quickly step forward to clarify, as it appeared the commenter had made a serious case of mistaken identity—apparently confusing Win with "Tao Un," a Cambodian boy band member who had previously caused controversy.

Win Vekin revealed that while shocked by the harsh message, upon reflection he realized it was a misunderstanding. He wanted to clarify to the public that he is 100% a Thai singer, not a Cambodian artist as accused. "I'd appreciate if you'd compare photos carefully—we're completely different people. Please don't jump to conclusions like that. But I'm still grateful that you took the time to comment on my work."

Nong Nooch Pattaya, led by President Kampon Tansatcha, is extending a special Labour Day promotion to thank tourists and workers with a chance to relax and rejuvenate in a beautiful natural setting. From May 1-4, 2025, Thai walk-in visitors born in May will enjoy free entry to celebrate their birthday month during the extended holiday period, perfect for families and friend groups seeking a memorable getaway.

The event features an array of entertainment including live musical performances, elegant Thai cultural shows, and the popular elephant performance that brings smiles to guests of all ages. Nong Nooch Pattaya welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM and offers an ideal destination for creating cherished holiday memories. For more information, visit www.nongnoochpattaya.com

April 29, 2026 – At Santi Maitri Building, Government House, Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supachee Sutthipandej answered media questions after Parliament prepared to lodge an inquiry into the live-stream durian sales incident and establish a committee to address agricultural price problems, citing the issue as "not solving the real problem." Media attempted to interview Supachee, but Commerce Ministry Permanent Secretary Witthikrai Leeveeraphant pulled her away from the media circle, stating he had "other duties to attend to." Supachee then indicated she didn't yet know who established the committee or its details, and requested to review the information first. When asked about the live-stream durian sale with a famous influencer at 100 baht that didn't match the product description, and opposition criticism that it was impossible and disrupted market mechanisms, Supachee said she hadn't watched it and didn't manage to place an order in time. Regarding criticisms that the product didn't match the description, she said relevant agencies need to investigate. Reporters noted that as media attempted to interview Supachee, the Commerce Ministry permanent secretary and officials pulled her away from the media circle three times and requested that media not conduct interviews at that time.

Actress Namtarn Pichukkana Wongsurathanasil has experienced one of life's sweetest moments after her boyfriend Pai Patisuth Pisuthkul surprised her with a romantic proposal under the northern lights in Norway, marking a major milestone after 14 years together. In a recent interview on April 29, the bride-to-be shared details about the proposal that almost didn't happen due to severe weather, their wedding plans, and their hopes for starting a family. She revealed how Pai deliberately chose the Norway trip because it wasn't an ordinary proposal location and couldn't be seen by just anyone, creating an intimate and unforgettable moment.

When asked if she expected the proposal during this trip, Namtarn laughed and admitted she had been preparing for it on every trip, worrying it might happen unexpectedly. However, this trip didn't go as planned—Pai intended to propose on an earlier day but heavy rain discouraged them both, even making them consider alternative locations like Japan or Korea. Finally, when the clouds cleared and the northern lights appeared, he seized the moment. She noted how thoughtful he was, even having t-shirts made for their friends with "Will you marry me" printed on them.

Regarding wedding plans, Namtarn explained they haven't started detailed arrangements yet, as they're still waiting for both families to meet. She expressed hope to have the wedding by year-end or early next year, as Pai is 42 and she is 35, wanting to enjoy their wedding day fully before starting a family. The couple has already discussed having children, with Namtarn admitting they've even preserved eggs since the COVID period. She hopes to have two children to give them the sibling bond she shares with her own brother.

When asked about the secret to their 14-year relationship, Namtarn credited mutual understanding and compromise. Despite their nine-year age difference and initial misunderstandings, Pai's maturity and understanding helped them grow closer over time. She praised how he fits seamlessly with her entire social circle, from close friends to LGBTQ+ friends, and emphasized their approach of using compassion, quick forgiveness, and viewing each other as partners rather than adversaries. She humorously described their dynamic as complementary—she's the fire and he's the water—noting that he's never gotten angry at her intensely or suggested breaking up.