National

Thai Table Tennis Association Calls Out Athletes' Excellent Performance Despite 8 Million Baht Budget Deficit

Thailand's Table Tennis Association reported outstanding athletic achievements in 2568, including a historic world championship in mixed doubles and three SEA Games title defenses, but revealed a budget deficit exceeding 8 million baht. The funding crisis stems from limited support from the National Sports Development Fund, which prioritized SEA Games operations, leaving insufficient resources for the association's 32 competitions and 26 organized tournaments. With 2569 funding still unclear after seven months, the association faces potential major operational cutbacks despite needing approximately 10 million baht for upcoming international competitions.

27 Apr Khaosod

The Thai Table Tennis Association held its annual general meeting at Central Westgate shopping center, reporting outstanding performance results for 2568. Notable achievements include 15-year-old players Ploy and Norton making history as Thailand's first world champions in mixed doubles, and defending three SEA Games titles across women's team, women's singles, and women's doubles competitions. The association sent athletes to 32 competitions, winning 19 championships, 14 runner-up finishes, and 25 third-place results. The organization also hosted five international tournaments, one-to-five-star national tournaments, and organized over 26 competitions involving more than 12,242 athletes.

However, the financial report revealed total revenue of 63.8 million baht against expenses of 72.29 million baht, creating a deficit of over 8.48 million baht. Officials attributed this to the National Sports Development Fund having limited budgets, with over 1,000 million baht directed toward SEA Games preparations and operations, leaving insufficient funds for individual sports associations. The table tennis association received minimal or no support for its 32 competition entries and only received funding for one of 26 organized tournaments, forcing the association to use reserves.

The situation worsened as the 2569 budget remains unclear even after seven months, potentially requiring major operational adjustments. The association faces urgent funding needs for upcoming competitions including the ASEAN Youth Championships in Singapore, World Championships in England, and hosting two WTT Youth 2 competitions in April-May, requiring approximately 10 million baht. Association President Nathwut Rueangwes stated: "We don't want to reduce activities because it's unfortunate after 4-5 years of strong growth with excellent athlete performance. The board will seek additional funding from other sources and adjust plans accordingly, though budget constraints are affecting all sports."

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National

Islamic Bank of Thailand Launches Low-Cost Soft Loan Program Worth 100 Billion Baht with Interest Rate Capped at 3.50% for First Two Years

Islamic Bank of Thailand has launched a 100 billion baht soft loan program under a government initiative to revitalize Thai businesses and support economic recovery. The program offers low interest rates capped at 3.50% for the first two years and targets SMEs, large enterprises, and individuals affected by global economic challenges. Four sub-programs address different needs including liquidity enhancement, strategic sector expansion, business capability development, and support for tourism affected by Middle East conflicts.

27 Apr Khaosod

Islamic Bank of Thailand has responded to the Cabinet's resolution by launching the "Low-Cost Soft Loan to Revitalize Thai Business" program with a total credit facility of 100 billion baht, according to Nujchareee Pakdeecharoen, Assistant Managing Director and Head of Retail Business Group at Islamic Bank of Thailand. The program aims to support entrepreneurs and individuals impacted by current global economic conditions, including energy price fluctuations and economic uncertainty, while promoting business capability enhancement and sustainability.

The initiative comprises four sub-programs offering credit support to SMEs (both individuals and juristic persons) and large enterprises registered in Thailand with Thai ownership exceeding 50% of registered capital. Interest rates for the first two years will not exceed 3.50% per annum.

The four main objectives are:

1. **Liquidity Enhancement for SMEs**: Support for SMEs and those seeking refinancing from existing or other financial institutions, with maximum credit limits of 30 million baht per applicant for up to two years.

2. **New Economic Momentum**: Funding for SMEs and large enterprises expanding into strategically important sectors including agriculture and agro-processing, tourism, automotive and parts manufacturing, medical and healthcare, smart electronics, and wholesale-retail businesses. Credit limits reach 100 million baht for SMEs and 150 million baht for large businesses, over up to five years.

3. **Business Capability Development**: Support for digital technology adoption, environmental sustainability, and future innovation, with limits of 100 million baht for SMEs and 150 million baht for large enterprises over up to five years.

4. **Tourism and Middle East Crisis Support**: Assistance for tourism and related businesses affected by Middle East conflicts, including hotels, accommodation services, and restaurants. Credit limits are set at 100 million baht for SMEs and 150 million baht for large businesses over up to five years.

Additionally, the general public can apply for multipurpose loans to install solar power systems or purchase electric vehicles for energy sustainability.

Interested applicants can contact Islamic Bank of Thailand branches, call the ibank Contact Center at 1302, or message via Facebook Messenger or Line (@ibank).

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National

International Trade Promotion Department Hosts First 2025 T Mark Clinic to Elevate Thai Entrepreneurs to International Standards

The International Trade Promotion Department launched the first 2025 T Mark Clinic in Bangkok, offering Thai entrepreneurs certification guidance and consulting services to meet international quality and sustainability standards. Over 100 b

27 Apr Khaosod

The International Trade Promotion Department (DITP) under the Ministry of Commerce organized the "First 2025 T Mark Clinic" at Centara Grand CentralPlaza Ladprao Hotel in Bangkok to strengthen entrepreneurial capabilities and elevate Thai businesses to international standards through the Thailand Trust Mark (T Mark) certification.

The event was opened by Surin Sunthornanan, Deputy Director-General of the DITP, who introduced the Thailand Trust Mark program and its benefits. The T Mark symbolizes "trust" and "transparent image," serving as a key to sustainable growth for Thai products. The DITP launched the Thailand Trust Mark in 2012 to certify that products and services meet excellence standards while genuinely supporting social welfare, labor, and environmental concerns. The department signed memorandums of understanding with the Ministry of Labor (Labor Standards Development Office) and the Ministry of Industry (Industrial Works Department) to jointly certify this quality mark.

The clinic featured a seminar on "Brand Building Strategies to Win Markets and Value-Added Packaging Design" led by experienced speakers. Dr. Porpun Promwang, Regional General Manager of Asia Pacific Cosmetics Corporation (IN2IT brand), discussed how Thai cosmetics achieved international success through differentiated marketing strategies and quality. Chatsil Chaatbut, Administrative/CRM Manager of TPN Food Packaging Company, highlighted packaging's importance beyond aesthetics—it extends product shelf life and increases market value, particularly eco-friendly packaging that aligns with consumer sustainability concerns.

Over 100 entrepreneurs participated actively, exchanging experiences and success strategies. In the afternoon, the department operated multiple consulting clinics staffed by government and private experts covering: T Mark certification requirements and procedures, export guidance and market expansion through DITP 1669 Clinic, product exhibition platforms via Thaitrade.com, financing options from Exim Bank, labor standards and human rights from the Ministry of Labor, CSR implementation guidance, green industry transition pathways, and food packaging consulting through TPN Food Packaging Clinic. Entrepreneurs registered extensively for the consulting sessions.

Over 13 years, the T Mark has proven to be a crucial force supporting...

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National

Medical Technicians Council Clarifies: Do You Need to Fast Before a Blood Test?

The Medical Technicians Council clarified that drinking plain water before a blood test is allowed and won't affect results, even during fasting periods. Staying hydrated actually helps blood work by preventing dehydration-related inaccurac

27 Apr Khaosod

The Medical Technicians Council has clarified a widespread misconception about blood test preparation. Contrary to popular belief, you can drink plain water before a blood test without fasting from it. The water must be pure, colorless, unsweetened, calorie-free, and have no additives—it will not interfere with test results, even when fasting from food is required.

The confusion typically arises from imprecise communication that lumps together "fasting from water and food." In reality, "fasting from food" means avoiding anything that provides energy, such as milk, coffee, sugary drinks, and flavored beverages. Plain water does not fall into this category.

Skipping water before blood work may actually be counterproductive. Dehydration can cause certain blood values to be higher than they actually are—including hemoglobin, creatinine, and BUN—making veins harder to access for the needle, and increasing discomfort during the procedure.

However, some blood tests may have specific requirements, such as fasting for 8-12 hours or other restrictions. Always consult your doctor or medical staff before your test to ensure proper preparation. Correct preparation not only ensures accurate results but also makes the experience more comfortable and hassle-free.

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National

Yutthasak Insists on National Science and Technology Development Office as Country's Research Engine with Four Strategic Pillars Targeting 17 Billion Baht Economic Impact

Deputy Prime Minister Yutthasak Wongsawat announced plans to transform Thailand's National Science and Technology Development Office into a high-impact research engine targeting 17 billion baht in economic benefits by 2027. The strategy centers on four pillars: applied research for economic growth, breaking down barriers between government agencies, advancing frontier technologies like AI and semiconductors, and developing innovations to address national crises. The NSTDO aims to benefit 10 million people and strengthen Thailand's position in global value chains through practical innovation focused on farmers, SMEs, startups, and critical national needs.

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yutthasak Wongsawat, serving as chairman of the National Science and Technology Development Committee (NSTDO Board), presided over the first board meeting of 2026. He announced a crucial policy to transform the National Science and Technology Development Office (NSTDO) into a "research engine for the nation" (New Research Engine) emphasizing precision, targeted focus, and measurable broad-based results. The meeting was attended by Supachai Pathumnakaul, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry; Dr. Sriyadha Palimaphand, ministerial advisor; Chaturin Chanhom, ministerial secretary; Chukkij Limpitjamnong, NSTDO Director; and other executives at the NSTDO Plant Factory in Pathum Thani Province.

Yutthasak revealed that the modern NSTDO must transcend pure research and become the primary mechanism for elevating Thailand to upper-middle-income status through four key strategic approaches: 1) Research for Nation & Economic Drive: emphasizing downstream research reaching various sectors, particularly empowering smallholder farmers, SMEs, and startups, and collaborating with the Ministry of Commerce to shield Thai innovations from foreign price dumping. 2) Mission-based Collaboration (Break Silos): breaking down barriers between agencies so that national priority projects receive integrated cooperation across all units in the Ministry and NSTDO, with NSTDO complementing rather than competing with universities through personnel and research funding exchanges. 3) Frontier Research & Tech War: preparing readiness in cutting-edge technologies such as AI, semiconductors, and quantum computing to strengthen Thailand's position in global value chains. 4) Urgent Battles & Crisis Management: rapidly developing innovations to address critical crises including disaster mitigation, energy security, and developing high-quality crop varieties for food security.

"We are transforming NSTDO into a high-impact research engine, targeting that by 2027 our innovations will benefit 10 million people and generate over 17 billion baht in economic and social impact," Yutthasak stated.

For his part, Chukkij stated that NSTDO stands ready to implement the policy with over 3,000 research personnel through Battle and Pre-battle mechanisms to convert laboratory expertise into national solutions, anchored in industry and public needs.

On this occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister led media representatives on a tour of the Plant Factory, showcasing successful precision agriculture that has transformed from volume-based vegetable sales to high-value extract production for global pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, helping farmers sustainably increase income from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of baht per rai.

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National

True Money launches Ascend Pay Next eligibility check for buy now, pay later credit up to 20,000 baht

True Money launches an eligibility check for Ascend Pay Next, a buy now, pay later service offering credit up to 20,000 baht with instant approval through the app or by dialing *399*555# for True and dtac customers.

27 Apr Khaosod

True Money, operating under Ascend Money, has launched an eligibility check campaign for Ascend Pay Next, a buy now, pay later service, on the True Money app as of April 27, 2025. True Money, a leading electronic payment and financial services provider in Southeast Asia under Ascend Money, is partnering with various players to expand digital financial services access. The campaign aims to make digital credit easily accessible to a wide range of users, who can check their eligibility for Ascend Pay Next immediately through the True Money app or by scanning QR codes distributed nationwide, including outdoor advertising at BTS stations and online channels.

True and dtac customers enjoy even easier eligibility verification by simply dialing *399*555# to check their credit status instantly. Customers can also use Ascend Pay Next to pay True bills through True Money with up to 60 baht cashback credit, or receive 20 baht monthly cashback for three consecutive months when paying automatic service charges through Ascend Pay Next.

From May 15 through December 31, 2025, customers can also use Ascend Pay Next for 0% installment plans up to three months at all True Shop branches on any item in the store, making technology purchases more accessible. Ascend Pay Next is a buy now, pay later service for everyday purchases and services requiring no upfront cash payment. Through the True Money app, approval is simple with no document submission required, with results in five minutes and credit limits up to 20,000 baht. Once approved, funds can be used immediately with no interest if paid within the specified timeframe, or customers can choose an installment plan.

Thannyapong Thammawaranukup, Co-Managing Director of Ascend Money, stated: "This campaign is another important step in making credit easily accessible through familiar everyday channels, whether through mobile apps or USSD. Ascend Pay Next is a crucial service that enhances spending flexibility for True Money users and can be used both online and offline at major retailers and stores nationwide."

Ascend Pay Next is provided by Ascend Nano, a credit service provider operating under supervision and integrated through the True Money platform, enabling users to access comprehensive financial services within a single app. Both companies operate under the Ascend Money group, which develops interconnected digital financial services to expand financial access for a broader consumer base.

Ascend Money is among those licensed to establish a virtual bank, reflecting readiness to leverage digital platform potential and fintech expertise to develop new forms of financial services with broader coverage.

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Police

Thai and Chinese Workers Clash at Construction Site Over Language Barriers; Police Accelerate Investigation to Prevent Further Escalation

A brawl between Thai and Chinese workers at a Rayong construction site on April 26 prompted a police investigation into assault charges, with language barriers identified as the primary cause of the conflict.

27 Apr Khaosod

Thai and Chinese construction workers engaged in a large-scale brawl at a construction site in Mab Kha subdistrict, Nikhom Phatthana district, Rayong province on April 26. On April 27, police, local administration officials, and the Rayong Provincial Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) closely monitored the situation. Officials summoned site managers from both sides and involved workers for additional questioning to determine facts and assess individual liability. Preliminary findings indicate multiple individuals participated in the altercation, potentially violating assault and public disturbance laws. The contractor has temporarily halted work in some areas and separated Thai and Chinese workers to reduce tension and prevent further clashes. Translators were urgently brought in after language barriers were identified as a significant cause of conflict. The ISOC's Information Gathering and Verification Team (Unit 112) is reviewing CCTV footage in detail to identify additional suspects and coordinate preventive measures with relevant agencies. Authorities have urged all parties to exercise patience and resolve issues through peaceful dialogue, expressing concern that escalation could damage the region's foreign worker reputation and investor confidence in Rayong's industrial zone.

No. 07 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Government Cracks Down on Counterfeit Goods Over 6 Months, Seizes 1.3 Million Items Worth 2.3 Billion Baht in Economic Damage

Thai authorities announced a major crackdown on counterfeit goods over six months, resulting in 332 arrests and the seizure of 1.3 million items worth 2.3 billion baht in economic losses. The coordinated enforcement effort by the government's intellectual property committee represents a 78% increase in recovery compared to the previous fiscal year. Officials emphasized that combating counterfeiting is essential for protecting Thailand's trade reputation and economy.

27 Apr Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprapas revealed that Prime Minister Anuthon Chaiyawiroon has assigned him to lead the announcement of intellectual property infringement enforcement results for the first six months (October 2024 - March 2025) of fiscal year 2025. The briefing was held on April 27, 2025, at the Thai Customs Department with participation from Commerce Minister Suphachai Sutthrampon, who chairs the National Intellectual Property Policy Committee, along with representatives from the Finance Ministry, Justice Ministry, National Police Office, private sector partners, and foreign embassies including the United States, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Ekniti stated that the government under Anuthon's leadership is treating intellectual property protection with systematic importance, with the Prime Minister directing all relevant agencies to intensify enforcement measures to build confidence in trade and investment.

Under this directive, all sectors have coordinated enforcement efforts across both physical markets and online channels. During the first six months of fiscal year 2025 (October 2024 - March 2025), authorities arrested and prosecuted 332 intellectual property infringement cases, seizing approximately 1.3 million items worth 2.3 billion baht in economic damages. The government targeted commercial zones, warehouses, and border checkpoints, resulting in a 78% increase in economic damage recovery compared to the entire fiscal year 2024, which totaled 1.3 billion baht. This damage not only impacts Thailand's economy but also undermines the country's long-term trade and investment reputation.

Commerce Minister Suphachai Sutthrampon noted that the Commerce Ministry, as the coordinating agency under the National Intellectual Property Policy Committee, is working intensively with the Finance Ministry, Justice Ministry, and National Police Office to protect intellectual property rights for both Thai and foreign investors. She emphasized that intellectual property is critical for economic development, while counterfeiting poses serious economic security threats, endangers public health and safety through fake products, harms legitimate businesses unable to compete on price, and weakens the nation's trade competitiveness. This integrated enforcement effort reflects all agencies' commitment to combat intellectual property infringement and aligns with the government's Trade Plus policy.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Finance Ministry Awaits Budget Approval Before Funding 'Thai Helping Thai Plus' Program, Reaffirms 4T Principles

The Finance Ministry will determine funding for the 'Thai Helping Thai Plus' stimulus program by April 30, pending clarity on available budget surplus and spending allocation. Officials emphasized efficient budget use and a 4T economic fram

27 Apr Khaosod

On April 27, 2026, Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithadtaprasth announced that the Finance Ministry is awaiting clarity on budget sources before finalizing the funding amount for the 'Thai Helping Thai Plus' program. The ministry has set a deadline of April 30 to determine remaining government spending and identify any surplus funds that can be allocated to the stimulus initiative. The government plans to proceed with budget reallocation legislation and consider alternative funding sources as appropriate.

Ekniti stated that the first Economic Cabinet meeting will be held next week to discuss economic measures, pending formal appointments from the Prime Minister. He also emphasized that government procurement represents 10-20% of global GDP and serves as a critical tool for shaping economic futures. Rather than focusing solely on spending amounts, he stressed the importance of efficient budget utilization.

The Finance Ministry is pursuing a 4T economic policy framework consisting of: Target (assisting vulnerable groups and small entrepreneurs), Transition (promoting renewable energy adoption for sustainability), Transformation (developing workforce skills through upskilling and reskilling), and Together (fostering collaboration between public, private, and civil sectors).

Ekniti outlined three pillars of modern procurement: digital procurement through the e-GP system for improved efficiency, green procurement for long-term sustainability, and innovation procurement to support startups and new technologies. He emphasized that effective government procurement directly impacts the overall economy by supporting small businesses, creating employment through community enterprises, and enabling broader economic participation.

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National

Thailand to allocate 20 million baht to restore Ta Kwai Temple within two years

Thailand will invest 20 million baht to restore Ta Kwai Temple in Surin province over the next two years, starting in fiscal 2027, with archaeologists and military personnel assisting the Fine Arts Department project.

27 Apr Khaosod

BANGKOK — The Fine Arts Department will allocate up to 20 million baht to restore Ta Kwai Temple in Surin province, with completion expected within two years, officials said.

Fine Arts Department Director-General Phanombootra Chandrajoti said on 27 April 2026 that the restoration plan follows a major ritual ceremony held at Prasat Ta Kwai in tambon Bang Dai, Phanom Dong Rak district.

He said the project has been assigned under coordination between the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Defence, with the restoration scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2027 and continue through 2028.

The plan includes detailed archaeological surveys of the surrounding area, excavation work to uncover additional historical evidence, and reinforcement of the temple's foundation. Fallen bricks and stones will be carefully documented and reassembled, with each stone marked to ensure accurate restoration.

Officials estimate that around 40–50% of the original bricks remain usable, while the rest will be supplemented with new materials. The department said the restoration will clearly distinguish between original and newly added materials.

Phanombootra said experts from the Fine Arts Office 10 in Nakhon Ratchasima, including specialists in architecture, engineering and archaeology, will lead the restoration work.

He added that the Ministry of Defence has confirmed military personnel will assist in site security throughout the project, citing concerns over potential unexploded ordnance or hazards left from past military use of the area.

Modern technology and innovation will also be used to reduce risks for workers during the restoration process, he said.

The department also plans to register around 30 ancient sites in Thailand's lower northeastern border region as officially recognised archaeological sites.

Phanombootra said the restoration will return the temple to its original beauty.

"Everything will be restored to its original splendour. We are confident the Fine Arts Department can complete this work," he said, adding that the site holds strong historical and emotional significance as a symbol of national heritage and sacrifice.

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Regional

Coral in Ao Nang Show Signs of Bleaching as 20% Display Paling

Coral reefs at Ao Nang in Krabi province show concerning signs of bleaching, with about 20% of live coral displaying paling and one colony fully bleached during an underwater survey on April 26. Sea temperatures of up to 32°C have triggered alarm among park officials, who warn that sustained high temperatures could worsen the bleaching in the coming period. Authorities have installed monitoring buoys and are conducting cleanup operations in the affected reef area.

27 Apr Khaosod

KRABI — Coral reefs in Ao Nang are showing signs of paling, with approximately 20% of live coral affected, raising alarm about potential bleaching as sea temperatures climb.

Saengsuree Songthong, chief of Hat Noppharat Thara–Mu Ko Phi Phi National Park, said park officials conducted an underwater survey on April 26 led by assistant chief Nattawat Limsunthon around the western side of Koh Samet in Ao Nang subdistrict, Mueang Krabi district. The survey covered an area of 4,068 square metres.

Water temperatures reached 32°C, dropping to 31°C in shaded areas created by natural underwater formations at depths between 2.9 and 9.7 metres. The survey documented that 20% of live coral remained in normal condition, while another 20% showed paling. The affected species included massive corals, large star corals, staghorn corals, brain corals, Pavona cactus coral, galaxy coral, honeycomb coral, small-grooved brain corals, smaller star corals, and angular star corals.

One colony of Pavona cactus coral was found completely bleached, and about 30% of coral in the area was already dead. Other marine life sensitive to bleaching, including giant clams, soft corals, and sea anemones, showed approximately 3% paling.

Authorities installed a 100-metre boundary buoy line near Ao Pu Ya on Koh Poda, collected roughly 25 kilograms of marine debris from the reef area, and removed one fishing trap that contained no marine life.

Park officials warned that sustained sea temperatures of up to 32°C could accelerate coral bleaching in the coming weeks and pledged to maintain close monitoring of the situation.

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