National

Thailand U-19 National Team Announces 30-Player Squad for ASEAN Championship Preparation

Thailand's U-19 national football team has named a 30-player squad for the 2026 ASEAN U-19 Championship under new coach Chakraphan Panpee. The tournament takes place June 1-14 in North Sumatra, Indonesia, with Thailand competing in Group B against Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei. Twenty-three final players will be selected after training, with group matches against Brunei, Singapore, and Malaysia scheduled throughout June.

11 May Khaosod

The Thailand Football Association has announced a 30-player roster for the U-19 national team under the guidance of head coach Chakraphan Panpee, who will prepare the squad for the 2026 ASEAN U-19 Championship held June 1-14 in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Thailand's U-19 team is placed in Group B alongside Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, competing in a round-robin format with group winners and the best second-placed team advancing to the semifinals.

Goalkeepers: Phoomirapi Siribunnyakul (Kashima Gakuen High School), Prapoj Jonjaroen (Buriram United), Rangsiman Khemmueang (Port FC), Supakorn Poolpol (Nongbua Pitcha FC)

Defenders: Vision Inaaram, Purich Sappahensawang, Surachai Boonchari, Jirapong Chamsukul, Suphatthat Mahavaiwai, Theerathep Thongkham, Aphiwit Laorkoikai, Punyaphop Kunsri, Puripan Pothithong (all listed with their respective clubs including True Bangkok United, Ban Bueng FC, Buriram United, Hornbill Junior, Buripha United, Muang Thong United)

Midfielders: Danupol Bupapha (Muang Thong United), Wachirwuthi Saenjaek (BG Pathum United), David Songsampao (Hua Hin City), Ratchanon Kochsenee (Buriram United), Pichya Kongsri (True Bangkok United), Nattachon Chandi (Chachoengsao United), Phattarathorn Buransuk (Nongbua Pitcha FC), Wongkorn Buasumlee (Pram Bangkok), Peerda Lasawat (Pram Bangkok)

Forwards: Witthawat Praowthaisongsong, Itthinon Thipenet, Shiwakorn Phonsaland, Kongnat Thuamthongdee (BG Pathum United), Nattakitti Pothisri (Port FC), Ruski Gadere (True Bangkok United), Rachat Prachasil (Hua Hin City), Sirisarn Chanjamjaisat (Assumption United)

The squad will report for training on May 13 at Dynamic Football Camp in Samut Prakan before 23 final players are selected for the trip to Indonesia. Group matches are scheduled for June 2 against Brunei, June 5 against Singapore, and June 8 against Malaysia at various stadiums in North Sumatra.

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National

Labor Ministry to Overhaul Law, Bringing Platform Workers into Social Security System with New Provisions for Riders

Thailand's Labor Ministry is moving to amend social security laws to include gig workers and platform-based employees, particularly food delivery riders, in the social security system. With an estimated 300,000 riders currently working in Thailand, the ministry projects this number could grow to 1 million within 3-5 years and aims to create protective provisions tailored to their unique work arrangements. The ministry is consulting with workers, platform operators, and studying international models to develop legislation that all stakeholders can accept.

11 May Khaosod

Labor Minister Chulphan Amornvivat announced plans to overhaul social security laws to bring platform workers and gig workers into the social security system with appropriate protections aligned to modern work arrangements.

Amornvivat stated that the rapid changes in the global economy, particularly the growth of e-commerce and food delivery platforms, have led to a continuous increase in rider workers. Currently numbering over 300,000 people, the minister projects this could reach 1 million within 3-5 years.

"The key challenge is how to ensure this workforce receives social security protections and benefits, as the labor market landscape has fundamentally changed and laws must adapt accordingly," Amornvivat said.

The Labor Ministry is currently consulting with rider groups, private platform operators, and studying international models for potential adaptation in Thailand. Amornvivat acknowledged that platform workers have unique characteristics distinct from traditional employees—for instance, a single rider may work for multiple platforms simultaneously and may not work full-time.

"A critical question is who would be considered the employer, as some countries have designated the food ordering customer as the employer, but we must study whether such a model would work in Thailand," Amornvivat explained.

Regardless of the approach taken, amendments to social security law will be necessary—either by modifying existing definitions or introducing new provisions specifically for platform workers.

"There are two concepts under consideration: incorporating them into existing provisions, or creating entirely new provisions specifically for platform workers, since their work structure is genuinely different," Amornvivat stated.

When asked if this means adding new categories of self-insured persons beyond the existing sections 33, 39, and 40, Amornvivat confirmed that the Labor Ministry has established a joint working group between political and administrative branches to study legislative approaches. No specific timeline has been set, though the ministry pledged to accelerate the process while soliciting input from all stakeholders.

"We cannot make unilateral decisions; we must engage with all parties—workers, platforms, and relevant agencies—to reach consensus," Amornvivat concluded.

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National

Weather Clears: Thai Windsurfing Team Trains at Sea Before Portuguese Championship

Thailand's windsurfing team successfully completed sea training in Portugal after weather conditions improved, preparing for the 2026 IQ Foil European Championship taking place May 16-23 in Portimão. The six-athlete team trained despite challenging waves and weather conditions, and officials view the competition as crucial preparation ahead of the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan.

11 May Khaosod

Thailand's windsurfing team encountered rainstorms that delayed their initial training, but after weather conditions improved, they successfully conducted sea training in Portugal. Although facing large waves, strong winds, and alternating rain and sunshine, all athletes adapted well and are prepared for the 2026 IQ Foil European Championship in Portimão, Portugal, running from May 16-23, 2026.

The Thai windsurfing team competing in the championship consists of six athletes: Nitiphattana Chaiyavutthivettaya, Siriporn Keadduangngam, Wachirawit Thanuap, Wachirawit Manburung, Ratchanan Khuncheng, and Chanatkaan Chareunsuk, led by coaches Nathphongse Pothinophrat and Sakda Skulfahng. They departed for pre-competition training starting May 4, 2026.

Pattana Bunsawat, secretary-general of the Windsurfing Association, reported that upon arrival, storms disrupted initial training as weather conditions were unfavorable with heavy rain and strong winds and waves. Coaches had athletes train through running, wading, and beach volleyball to maintain fitness. After 2-3 days, conditions cleared and sea training commenced. Despite fairly large waves, strong winds, and intermittent rain and sunshine, all athletes performed well. Night temperatures dropped, causing some cold, prompting coaches to monitor athletes' health closely.

Bunsawat stated: "This team includes both senior and youth athletes. The association intends to use this championship as preparation for Thai national athletes competing in upcoming international competitions, particularly the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. We believe the athletes will strengthen their capabilities and develop their potential significantly."

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National

PM Vows to Use Law to Handle Chinese ID Registration Issue, Says No New Parliament Session Needed

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed concerns about lax ID registration for Chinese nationals, stating that existing legal frameworks are sufficient and no new parliamentary session is needed. He emphasized that authorities will strictly enforce regulations and prosecute any officials found responsible for failures. The PM also directed police to conduct thorough investigations into a case involving a Chinese national caught with multiple firearms, vowing to dismantle any associated networks.

11 May Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed allegations that security authorities and the Ministry of Interior have been lax in issuing ID cards to Chinese nationals, leading to document fraud cases. Speaking at Government House on May 11, 2569, the PM stated that ID registration and nationality transfer procedures have been tightened since these issues emerged, though he declined to name specific cases out of respect for personal rights. He confirmed no improper nationality grants have been made.

When asked if new parliamentary legislation was necessary, the PM emphasized existing regulations are adequate, stating authorities simply need to prevent individuals with legal issues or criminal records from entering the system. He dismissed concerns that problematic cases could slip through, noting that government review and vetting processes prevent evasion, and those responsible for failures—such as an official in Chiang Mai involved in selling ID cards—face prosecution and dismissal.

Regarding the arrest of a Chinese national possessing numerous firearms, the PM noted the case began Saturday, May 9, with ongoing investigation expansion. He stressed that under Interior Ministry orders issued 2-3 years ago, firearm possession is prohibited with no exceptions, particularly for foreigners. The PM instructed police to expand the investigation to dismantle associated networks and ensure no security threats remain to the country or Thai citizens.

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National

Government Moves Forward with 4 Trillion Baht Emergency Decree Without Waiting for Court or Parliament Ruling

Thailand's government is moving forward with a controversial 4 trillion baht emergency borrowing decree without waiting for court rulings or full parliamentary action, according to government officials. Budget reallocation efforts to address the decree are expected to yield less than 30 billion baht rather than the initially projected 50-70 billion, as the government prioritizes maintaining economic activity by continuing approved projects with reduced funding allocations.

11 May Khaosod

On May 11, 2025, at Government House, Paradorn Parisunantkul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and overseer of the Budget Bureau, disclosed progress on budget reallocation intended to address urgent national needs. While the Finance Ministry and Budget Bureau initially estimated 50-70 billion baht in budget returns, recent verification revealed the actual amount may not exceed 30 billion baht.

Paradorn explained that the lower-than-expected figure results from the government's policy to continue project implementation to keep the economy moving. Clear criteria have been established: any projects not commenced by the April 30 deadline will have their budgets withdrawn. However, for projects with binding commitments, the government opted to reduce first-year budget allocations rather than cancel them entirely. For example, projects originally approved for 20 percent first-year disbursement may be reduced to 10-15 percent to allow them to proceed and avoid broader economic impact.

Regarding the progress of the 4 trillion baht emergency decree, Paradorn stated that despite the opposition submitting the matter to court, since the law has already been published in the Government Gazette, parliamentary proceedings continue normally. The government has already submitted the matter to both the House of Representatives and Senate, with the parliamentary speaker expected to include it on the meeting agenda around May 14, pending the speaker's discretion.

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National

SAM Launches Self-Service Debt Resolution System to Help Low-Income Debtors Clear Debt and Move Forward

SAM has launched a self-service debt resolution platform on LINE for people owing under 100,000 baht, allowing them to complete the entire settlement process independently. The "Clear Debt and Move Forward" program offers two flexible repayment options: immediate closure with up to 50% debt reduction, or installment plans up to 3 years with 30% reduction. The system is designed to be secure, convenient, and help debtors restart their lives with dignity.

11 May Khaosod

Sukhumvit Asset Management Company Limited (SAM) has unveiled a Smart Self Service system on LINE @samsocialamc to help low-income debtors resolve their debts independently through the "Clear Debt and Move Forward" program. On May 11, 2025, Ms. Naratnarida Rattapat, Managing Director of SAM, announced that the new platform allows borrowers to manage their entire debt resolution process from start to finish—including eligibility verification, registration, identity confirmation, selecting repayment measures, and finalizing contracts and payments—all through LINE.

The Smart Self Service platform aims to make debt resolution accessible, convenient, and dignified. SAM believes that when individuals break free from debt, their families gain improved quality of life, stability, and economic security. The system offers two flexible repayment options: the "Pay, Close, Done" measure with up to 50% principal reduction and immediate account closure, and the "Installment Repayment" measure with 30% principal reduction, no interest, and repayment periods up to 3 years.

The self-service process involves six steps: adding the LINE friend, verifying eligibility and registering, confirming identity via ID scan and facial recognition, setting access codes and OTP verification, selecting an appropriate repayment plan, reviewing and signing the contract, and making payments via QR code scanning. Eligible participants must be individual debtors with non-performing loan (NPL) status from credit cards, personal loans, or secured debt exceeding 90 days as of September 30, 2024, with combined debt not exceeding 100,000 baht per person, and must not be bankrupt or sanctioned. SAM assures that all transactions through the LINE platform are secure and comply with anti-money laundering standards set by the Office of the Anti-Money Laundering Commission.

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National

Tourism Minister Moves to Eliminate Free Visa Policy, Reduce Foreign Tourist Stay Duration in Thailand

Thailand's Tourism Minister is preparing to eliminate the free visa exemption for foreign tourists and reduce their permitted stay from 60 days to approximately 30 days, citing research showing most visitors stay only 9 days on average. The government also plans to implement a 300-baht entry fee for foreign arrivals by air, with revenues directed to tourism promotion. Officials believe these changes will not harm Thailand's overall tourism market and will help prevent criminals from entering the country under tourist pretenses.

11 May Khaosod

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister is moving to eliminate the free visa exemption for foreigners and reduce their allowed stay duration in the country. Minister Surasak Panchjaroen revealed on May 11 that the visa exemption cancellation is being prepared for submission to the Cabinet, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs handling all details. The measure will reduce permitted stay periods to match individual countries' profiles, down from the current 60-day free visa for citizens of 93 countries.

The adjustment aims to better align with actual tourist behavior and help prevent criminals from entering under the guise of tourists. Research shows that foreign visitors' average stay in Thailand is approximately 9 days, with Norway having the longest average at 21 days. Setting a 30-day visa limit is therefore considered sufficient. Those with other purposes, such as internships or medical treatment, can apply for alternative visa categories suited to their needs.

The minister expressed confidence that reducing foreign tourist stay durations will not negatively impact Thailand's overall tourism market. Panchjaroen also announced that the ministry is moving forward with collecting an entry fee from foreign tourists at a preliminary rate of 300 baht per person per visit, primarily targeting air arrivals, with proceeds going to Thailand's tourism promotion fund. He confirmed this measure will be implemented.

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Community

Adorable: Puppy Remembers Owner's Workplace After Just One Walk, Now Visits Daily

A Chinese woman's four-month-old adopted puppy amazed her by memorizing the route to her workplace after just one walk, now visiting her there almost daily. The heartwarming viral videos show the joyful reunion each time the determined pup arrives, though animal safety experts warn about the dangers of letting dogs roam unsupervised.

11 May Khaosod

A woman who adopted a puppy took the young dog for a walk that passed by her workplace just once. Remarkably, the puppy remembered the route and now attempts to sneak away from home nearly every day to visit her, becoming an adorable viral moment that has delighted internet users.

The heartwarming incident took place in Guizhou Province, China. A young woman adopted a four-month-old puppy from an animal shelter, with her home located only about a five-minute walk from her workplace. She recounted that on one outing, she took the puppy past her office building, just that single time. Yet the clever pup memorized the entire route and now persistently tries to escape home to find her almost every day, regardless of family members' attempts to prevent it. Some days, the determined puppy even makes multiple round trips, and occasionally brings other dogs along.

Footage shot by her coworkers shows that each time the puppy arrives, it rushes straight to its owner, wagging its tail and wiggling its body with unmistakable joy, bringing smiles to all who witness it.

After the video was shared online, netizens offered affectionate comments such as "The pup must be checking if mom is really working" and "Maybe it's too hot and wants to enjoy the air conditioning at the shop."

However, some users issued cautions: while the dog's ability to remember the route is impressive, letting it roam alone still carries risks including traffic accidents, encounters with strangers, and unforeseen dangers. Pet owners should use a leash or provide supervision to ensure their pet's safety.

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Tourism

Trip Ruined: German Tourist Wins Lawsuit Against Tour Company Over Greek Resort With No Available Poolside Chairs Reserved by Towels

A German tourist has won a lawsuit against his tour operator and will receive approximately 39,000 baht in compensation after his family's 11-day vacation in Greece was ruined by the complete unavailability of poolside chairs, which were reserved by towels but unused. The court ruled the vacation a "defective travel package" and determined that tour companies must ensure adequate facilities are provided as advertised, regardless of whether they directly operate the resort. This case highlights persistent issues with facility management at popular tourist destinations worldwide.

11 May Khaosod

A German man has won a lawsuit against his tour company and received approximately $1,200 USD (around 39,000 baht) in compensation after experiencing problems at a resort in Greece that made his family's vacation fall far short of expectations.

The unidentified tourist paid over 7,186 euros (approximately 275,000 baht) for an 11-day vacation package on the island of Kos in August 2024, traveling with his wife and two children aged 9 and 12. However, from the first day of their stay, the vacation atmosphere turned chaotic. The swimming pool area was crowded with guests, but there were no available lounge chairs, despite temperatures reaching around 35 degrees Celsius.

Every morning, the father had to wake up at 6 a.m. to "hunt for a seat," only to find that all chairs were already claimed with towels in advance, even though no one was actually using them. During the entire 11-day stay, the family managed to find available lounge chairs only once, and even then, they got only 2 chairs for 4 people, forcing the children to sit on towels on the ground instead.

The man reported that it took approximately 20 minutes each day to find an empty spot. He confirmed that the resort had a rule against reserving chairs with towels in advance, but the rule was not strictly enforced. When he complained to the tour guide, he was told it was the hotel's responsibility to manage. When he approached hotel staff directly, nothing was resolved.

The case was brought before the Hannover Regional Court in Germany. Video evidence showed numerous poolside chairs with towels reserved from early morning with no actual users, which the court considered a significant problem affecting service quality.

The court ruled that the vacation constituted a "defective travel package" because the family could not access basic facilities as advertised, even though the tour company did not directly operate the hotel. The judge emphasized that tour operators have a responsibility to ensure that facilities like poolside chairs are proportionate to the number of guests.

The man had previously received a partial refund of 350 euros (approximately 14,000 baht), but the court deemed this insufficient and ordered an additional 986.70 euros (approximately 37,662.83 baht) in compensation, representing a roughly 15% reduction in the trip's value for each day services could not be used. The ruling specifically stated that children aged 9 and 12 are entitled to lounge chairs just like adults, highlighting resort guest rights standards and a classic problem occurring frequently in tourist destinations across many countries.

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National

Thai military builds border fence along Cambodian frontier

The Thai military has begun construction of a reinforced border fence along the Thai-Cambodian frontier in Chanthaburi province's Pong Nam Ron district, covering approximately 1.3 kilometres between border markers 52 and 54. The 170-centimetre-high fence, made of concrete and steel mesh, is designed to strengthen border security and protect local residents, with construction expected to be completed within 45 days. Cambodian soldiers have observed and photographed the work, though Thai authorities maintain the project is conducted entirely within Thai sovereign territory.

11 May Khaosod

CHANTHABURI — The Thai military is constructing a new border fence along part of the Thai-Cambodian frontier in Chanthaburi province, aiming to strengthen border security and improve safety for local residents, according to a security source. The construction is taking place between border markers 52 and 54 in Pong Nam Ron district, covering a distance of about 1,310 metres near a permanent border crossing.

The source said the area is mostly flat terrain with a clearly demarcated boundary. Both Thailand and Cambodia already maintain patrol roads running along the border. The new fence is being built with reinforced concrete foundations and steel mesh, with a total height of about 170 centimetres. Concrete panels measuring around 150 centimetres high are topped with an additional 20 centimetres of steel fencing to improve surveillance and security along the border.

Authorities said around 900 to 1,000 fence posts are being installed at intervals of roughly three metres. The source added that some Cambodian soldiers had monitored and photographed the construction work, but Thai authorities insisted the project is being carried out entirely within Thai territory and falls under Thailand's sovereign right to manage its own border areas. Construction on the first phase began in late April and is expected to be completed within 45 days.

Photos of the fence construction, reportedly taken by Cambodian soldiers, have also been widely shared on Cambodian social media platforms.

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Police

Tragedy in Saraburi: Woman and Family Killed When Tree Crashes Through Restaurant During Storm

A massive tree branch collapsed during a severe storm at a Saraburi restaurant on May 10, killing a 40-year-old tourist from Bangkok and injuring her family members nearby.

11 May Khaosod

In a tragic incident on May 10 at approximately 12:30 PM, Muak Lek police received reports of severe summer storm conditions at a restaurant in Muak Lek district, Saraburi province. Heavy rainfall and powerful wind gusts caused a large tree branch to collapse onto a 40-year-old tourist from Phra Pradaeng, Samut Prakan, who was eating with her family and 13 coworkers near a waterfall platform. The massive tree struck her violently in the head and torso. Emergency responders immediately transported her to Muak Lek Hospital, but she died from her injuries. Authorities emphasize this tragic event as an important reminder for the public to avoid sitting or parking beneath large trees during thunderstorms and strong winds to prevent unexpected hazards.

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