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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Thaksin Cleared! Passes Sentence Suspension Committee, No Electronic Monitoring Required, Set to Be Released May 11

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has been approved for conditional release on May 11, 2025, after the Justice Ministry's sentence suspension committee cleared him without requiring electronic monitoring. The decision was made based on Thaksin's age exceeding 70 years and his chronic health conditions. He has served approximately 7 months and 20 days of his one-year sentence at Klongprem Central Prison and will complete his remaining four months under probation.

29 Apr Khaosod

Former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has successfully passed the Justice Ministry's sentence suspension committee review and is cleared for conditional release on May 11 without an electronic monitoring bracelet due to his age exceeding 70 years and chronic health conditions. At a 9 a.m. meeting on April 29, 2025, at the Justice Ministry, the sentence suspension committee chaired by Deputy Permanent Secretary Tharinee Saengswang approved Thaksin's case after more than three hours of deliberation. Thaksin, who has been held at Klongprem Central Prison since September 9, 2024, has served 7 months and 20 days of his sentence, with only 12 days remaining before he completes two-thirds of his one-year sentence. The committee's decision will be forwarded to Klongprem Central Prison, and Thaksin will be released on May 11, 2025, to serve the remaining four months under probation supervision.

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National

Five Parties Support Academic's Proposal to Eliminate Jail Time for Unpaid Fines and Revise Constituency Ballot Papers

Five political parties backed an academic's proposal to replace jail time for unpaid fines with community service and add candidate names to constituency ballots, addressing concerns about imprisonment of poor defendants and election confus

29 Apr Khaosod

At 11:15 AM on April 29, 2026, representatives from five political parties—including Kravairt Parisananung (Ang Thong, Bhumjaithai), Prachit Watcharasinthsuthon (Party List, Pheu Thai), Chaturon Chaisaeng (Party List, Pheu Thai), Arthakorn Sirilerthakyakor (Chachoengsao, Kla Tham), and Sathit Wongnongtoy (Party List, Thai Democrats)—received a letter from Professor Prinya Tewanirumitrkul of Thammasat University's Faculty of Law proposing amendments to eliminate imprisonment in lieu of fines and revise the Organic Act on House elections.

Prinya stated he represented law students and faculty, presenting two main proposals. First, he addressed the issue of poor defendants unable to pay fines being imprisoned instead, despite potential community service options being underutilized. All five parties agreed this problem should be fixed by amending Criminal Code Section 29, replacing jail time with community service.

Second, regarding past election issues, Prinya proposed four improvements to the electoral law: citizen convenience, transparent vote counting, public participation in election monitoring, and timely announcement of eligible voters and district-level results.

All five parties agreed on one key reform: constituency ballots currently show only candidate numbers without names or party affiliations, creating confusion across 400 districts with varying numbers for the same party's candidates. This enables cross-constituency ballot misuse and compromises election integrity. The parties unanimously support adding candidate and party names to constituency ballots.

Prinya noted Thammasat's Faculty of Law recommends announcing eligible voter counts within 24 hours of voting and district-level results within 48 hours, echoing procedures from the Ministry of Interior era.

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National

Yuasa Teams Up with Y-Speed to Launch 'Future Forward Dealer Conference'

Yuasa Battery held a major dealer conference in Bangkok to launch new Y-Speed battery models TZ5 and TZ7, targeting Thailand's mass market expansion. The event featured celebrity appearances and a lucky draw offering over 500,000 baht in prizes to dealers, emphasizing Yuasa's commitment to market growth and dealer partnerships.

29 Apr Khaosod

Yuasa Battery (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a global leader in motorcycle and automobile batteries, held its grand dealer conference 'Yuasa & Y-Speed Future Forward Dealer Conference' at the Avani+ Riverside Bangkok hotel to announce business direction and showcase product diversity while launching new Y-Speed battery models TZ5 and TZ7, aiming to expand the mass market customer base nationwide.

During the event, Yuasa reinforced its leadership image by showcasing motorcycles from world-leading brands that trust Yuasa batteries as standard OEM equipment, reflecting internationally recognized quality standards. The company also presented a comprehensive range of car batteries to meet diverse consumer needs.

CEO Tsuneo Yoshimura stated: 'Thailand has over 23-24 million motorcycles, with more than 90% used in daily life, reflecting that motorcycles are crucial to Thai lifestyle. Yuasa is committed to developing high-quality batteries to support people's daily lives. The Thai market is very important for us, which is why we developed the Y-Speed brand specifically to serve family motorcycles and scooters, the main market segments in Thailand.'

The event featured an elegant parade-style opening led by 'Prae Twinanth,' a renowned motorcycle industry influencer, along with entertainment from concerts by 'Yaya Ying' and 'China Dolls,' celebrating success with dealers nationwide.

Beyond business cooperation, Yuasa organized a major Lucky Draw giveaway worth over 500,000 baht for dealers, with grand prizes including limited edition Honda Scoopy and Yamaha Fazzio motorcycles from the Yuasa brand.

COO Sukhat Ruangwattanachotee added: 'Yuasa's strength lies in OEM reliability chosen by leading motorcycle manufacturers, combined with quality and continuously developed technology. We have both premium main brand and Y-Speed brand serving the mass market, allowing us to compete in every segment. We also prioritize dealers as long-term partners by supporting products, knowledge, and activities comprehensively, including integrated marketing to create engagement and sustainable growth together.'

This move by Yuasa and Y-Speed not only launches new products but also confirms readiness to drive innovation and expand market share in Thailand under the strong and sustainable 'Future Forward' concept.

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National

Manchester United poised to release 10 players this summer – Onana and Rashford among those targeted

Manchester United is preparing to release over 10 players this summer, including goalkeeper André Onana and forward Marcus Rashford, as the club restructures its squad ahead of next season.

29 Apr Khaosod

Manchester United has scheduled meetings this week to discuss player departures during the summer transfer window, with over 10 players potentially being released, led by André Onana and Marcus Rashford. According to The Sun, United's management aims to clarify the futures of certain players to facilitate smooth transfers. Reports indicate that more than 10 squad members could be released from the club this summer due to various factors, including falling out of plans and contract expiries. Players on the departure list include André Onana, Marcus Rashford, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Altay Bayindir, Toby Collyer, Casemiro, Jadon Sancho, Tyrell Malacia, and Tyler Fredrickson. Additionally, Manchester United is looking to sign at least two defensive midfielders to prepare the team for next season's UEFA Champions League campaign, as they aim to secure a full quota spot.

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National

IOC Inspects Chonburi's Readiness to Host 2030 Youth Olympic Games

An IOC delegation led by Mrs. Danka Hrbékova officially visited Thailand to inspect venues in Chonburi province for hosting the 2030 Youth Olympic Games in Bangkok. The inspection covered proposed marine and outdoor sports facilities including beaches, yacht clubs, and training centers that would host events such as beach volleyball, sailing, rowing, and golf. Thailand is preparing to showcase its readiness and capabilities to successfully host the international youth sporting event.

29 Apr Khaosod

An IOC delegation made an official visit to Thailand to inspect Chonburi facilities and present the country's capabilities as host of the Bangkok 2030 Youth Olympic Games on April 29, 2025. Mrs. Danka Hrbékova, IOC member and chair of the 2030 Youth Olympic Games working group, along with her delegation, toured Chonburi province with representatives from Thailand's Sports Authority and the National Olympic Committee of Thailand (NCOT). The inspection focused on marine and outdoor competition venues, including Thai Polo and Equestrian Club, Sattahip Navy House Hotel (proposed as an extended athletes' village), Jomtien Beach (proposed for beach handball, modern pentathlon, rowing, triathlon, and beach wrestling), Ocean Marina Yacht Club (proposed for sailing and windsurfing), and Thai Country Club (designated for golf competitions). Among the visitors was Trisha Smith, a four-time Olympic athlete and former vice president of the International Rowing Federation (FISA), who toured the Royal Thai Navy Rowing Training Center.

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National

Acer Hosts Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026

Acer successfully held the Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026 in Jakarta on April 22-23, bringing together education leaders and policymakers from 12 countries to advance AI-driven learning. The summit featured presentations from MIT Media Lab and leading universities on personalized learning, digital literacy, and the evolving role of teachers in the technology era. Acer showcased its latest AI infrastructure solutions including the Altos BrainSphere AI Server to support next-generation classroom innovation.

29 Apr Khaosod

Jakarta, Indonesia — Acer successfully held the Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026 under the theme "Future-Ready Learning: AI, Innovation, and Human-Centered Education," reinforcing its role in driving regional education advancement. The summit brought together education professionals from across the region to promote widespread AI adoption and accelerate meaningful change in the education sector.

The event took place in Jakarta on April 22-23, 2026, with delegations from 12 countries including Australia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, South Korea, Taiwan, Philippines, Vietnam, and Thailand. The summit provided a platform for educators, policymakers, and technology industry leaders to exchange perspectives and leverage technology to enhance learning outcomes in alignment with Acer's 50th-anniversary strategic initiative "The Next Breaking Barriers," aimed at breaking technological boundaries across all aspects of life, including education.

Andrew Ho, Operating Officer for Asia Pacific at Acer Inc., stated: "The Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific reflects Acer's commitment to using technology to shape the future of education and foster collaboration among countries in the region to move forward together. We believe meaningful change occurs when innovation truly addresses people's needs. This summit represents another step by Acer in helping educators, institutions, and policymakers jointly create a comprehensive and future-ready learning system across the region."

Collaboration Platform for Sustainable Adaptive Education

Throughout the two-day summit, Acer Edu Summit Asia Pacific 2026 hosted panel discussions, presentations, and knowledge exchanges on effectively implementing AI in education, covering key topics including personalized learning, digital literacy advancement, and the evolving role of teachers in the era of rapid technological progress. The focus was on creating conditions for technology and educators to work together to build a more comprehensive, adaptive, and sustainable education system while fostering innovative approaches that genuinely unlock learner potential.

A major highlight was the presentation of the latest AI education research from MIT Media Lab's City Science group, introducing the Learning Foundry for AI and Robotics (FAIR) project. Dr. Michael Lin from MIT collaborated with Dr. Wolfgang Gruel from Stuttgart Media University to share approaches for leveraging AI to enable personalized and scalable learning while addressing challenges of modern urban life. Additionally, Jun-Yu Fan, President of Chang Gung University of Science and Technology, presented a curriculum on "The Algorithm of the Nursing Soul," demonstrating the transition from rote learning to AI-enhanced clinical perspectives in nursing education.

AI Innovation and Devices for Next-Generation Classrooms

For practical implementation, Altos Computing, an Acer subsidiary, showcased a comprehensive AI infrastructure, featuring the high-performance Altos BrainSphere R680 F7 AI Server as a centerpiece, alongside AI workstations.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Sirikunya Warns Government Against Proceeding with Land Bridge Project Due to Low Returns and Investment Concerns

Opposition MP Sirikunya warns the government against pursuing the Land Bridge project, citing private sector returns of just 5%—too low to attract investors—and risks of repeating failed concession project models that harmed local communiti

29 Apr Khaosod

On April 29, 2569 at Parliament, Ms. Sirikunya Tansookul, opposition list MP and deputy leader of the Pracharaj Party, presented findings from a shadow cabinet meeting regarding the government's Land Bridge project proposal. According to an evaluation by the Office of Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning, the overall project shows an acceptable 8% rate of return with positive net present value. However, when assessed for private sector viability, returns drop to just 5%—a level so low that no private investors would be willing to participate, with negative net present value figures. Sirikunya characterized this as the worst-case scenario, as it would require private firms to fund 100% of the project themselves, making it highly unattractive for investment. She expressed uncertainty about how the government plans to proceed and whether it would adjust the investment structure. Sirikunya warned that if private sector involvement remains at 100%, there is risk of repeating past concession project failures that were auctioned then later renegotiated, such as the three-airport rail link and airport duty-free shop tender, potentially creating unfair conditions for initial bidders. She also highlighted additional concerns including environmental impacts on the Phayam and Surin island groups, as well as damage to local farming and fishing communities, questioning whether the government should proceed with a project unlikely to attract private investment.

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Police

Raids on 4 Locations Net 6 Suspects in Forged Birth Certificate Scheme Involving State Officials and Accomplices

Authorities arrested six suspects including a state official in coordinated raids targeting a forged birth certificate scheme at Bangkok's Thonburi District Registration Office that illegally issued documents to stateless persons.

29 Apr Khaosod

The NACC, police, and Ministry of Interior launched Operation 'Reverse Dragon Scales' on April 20, 2026, to dismantle a forged birth certificate ring. Under NACC Secretary-General Surpongse Intathaworn's direction, Deputy Secretary-General Patthanpong Chantpetchpul, Investigation and Special Affairs Director Choong Kraydmuang, and News Investigation Group 2 Director Pairojn Niyomdecha, along with officers from the Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Prevention Division, the NACC's Special Investigation Office, the Ministry of Interior, and the Special Investigation Department, conducted simultaneous raids on four targets, arresting six suspects under arrest warrants for corruption and misconduct offenses.

The case originated from complaints to the Ministry of Interior about an illegal operation issuing birth certificates to stateless persons impersonating Thai nationals. During the investigation, irregularities were discovered in the system at the Thonburi District Registration Office. Following the trail revealed corrupt 'worms'—government officials colluding with outsiders to fraudulently forge birth certificates.

Group 1 suspects consist of one government official from the Thonburi District Registration Office facing charges of official misconduct or dereliction of duty causing damage, document falsification, and abuse of authority or misconduct under Criminal Code Articles 157, 162, and the Constitution-Related Organic Act on Anti-Corruption B.E. 2561, Article 172.

Group 2 suspects include five accomplices charged with aiding and abetting official misconduct, dereliction of duty, document falsification, and assisting in abuse of authority under the same legal provisions and Criminal Code Article 86.

The NACC, Anti-Corruption and Misconduct Prevention Division, Special Investigation Office, Ministry of Interior, and Special Investigation Department jointly arrested all six suspects at the Thonburi District Registration Office and residential locations. Four search warrants were executed, resulting in the seizure of numerous items and documents as evidence.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Lucky Numbers Revealed: Incense Smoke Divination at Ancient 1,000-Year-Old Water Festival Draws Lottery Hopefuls

Farmers and residents at an ancient water festival in Lap Bua performed incense divination rituals that produced numbers 220 and 20, which lottery hopefuls quickly wagered on the government drawing. The 1,000-year-old "Lam Nam Khuen Hong" c

29 Apr Khaosod

The ancient "Lam Nam Khuen Hong" tradition—meaning "ascension to the palace" in the Lap Bua dialect—was observed once again this year as farmers and residents dressed in traditional clothing organized an elaborate procession spanning over two kilometers from Wat Don Sak temple to the monument of Chao Fa Ham Kumarn, the first ruler of Lap Bua, dating back to 1513. The community carried aromatic water, flowering plants, and agricultural offerings to pay respect to the founding prince and local spirits, seeking blessings for cool weather, timely rains, and abundant harvests.

During the ceremony, young women performed traditional "Fon Khan Dok" dances, and temple officials conducted incense divination rituals. This year's reading proved particularly intriguing as wind scattered the incense ash, creating blurred patterns resembling the numbers 220 and 20. Lottery enthusiasts who attended the event seized on these apparent omens, betting the numbers on the May 2, 2569 government lottery drawing in hopes of striking it lucky.

The ceremony was presided over by Uttaradit Provincial Governor Chatchai Sipol and Lap Bua District Chief Surawut Chan-ngam, who led communal water-pouring rituals at the monument. The tradition, maintained continuously for over 1,000 years, represents the people's gratitude to their ancestors and spiritual guardians while seeking prosperity and protection from natural disasters.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

King Charles III highlights US-UK bond during busy day of diplomacy with Trump and Congress

King Charles III addressed a joint session of Congress on Tuesday, celebrating 250 years of American independence and emphasizing the "consequential alliance" between the U.S. and U.K. During his visit, the British monarch delivered subtle warnings about isolationism, climate change, and checks on executive power, while President Trump praised the shared history between the two nations at a private Oval Office meeting and state dinner.

29 Apr Khaosod

WASHINGTON (AP) — King Charles III marked the 250th anniversary of American independence from Britain with gratitude that the two countries united to build "one of the most consequential alliances in human history" while urging "that we ignore the clarion calls to become ever more inward-looking."

Speaking Tuesday to a joint session of the U.S. Congress, Charles repeatedly highlighted the historical and cultural ties that he said have cemented an enduring bond between the United States and the United Kingdom. But even as he spoke in unifying, optimistic terms, he delivered a series of nuanced warnings encouraging leaders in the U.S. to remain collaborative and engaged in global affairs.

He said the alliance between the U.S. and the U.K., tested anew by President Donald Trump's war in Iran, "cannot rest on past achievements." Charles urged "unyielding resolve" in backing Ukraine against Russia and heralded the NATO alliance that Trump has consistently undermined.

The king praised religious pluralism and interfaith dialogue in terms that are rare in Trump's Washington. As the White House rolls back regulations aimed at denting climate change, the king encouraged those in power to "reflect on our shared responsibility to safeguard nature, our most precious and irreplaceable asset."

At one point, Charles traced the notion of checks and balances on executive power to the Magna Carta, the foundational legal document sealed by King John in 1215. Trump told The New York Times earlier this year that he was constrained only by "my own morality."

And acknowledging a scandal that has roiled politics in both the U.S. and U.K., Charles subtly alluded to the victims of Jeffrey Epstein, the convicted sex offender with ties to British officials, including the king's brother, Andrew.

Charles is on a four-day visit to the U.S. intended to both celebrate American independence and to repair the country's fraying relationship with the U.K. He hardly arrived in Washington as an oppositional figure to Trump. Joined by Queen Camilla, Charles had a warm greeting with the president and first lady Melania Trump at the White House earlier Tuesday.

In his welcome remarks, Trump also highlighted the shared history between the two countries. "American patriots today can sing, 'My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty,' only because our colonial ancestors first sang, 'God save the king,'" Trump said.

The leaders met privately in the Oval Office for a meeting Trump later described as "really good," adding that Charles is a "fantastic person." Trump hosted the royal couple for a jovial state dinner later Tuesday in the East Room.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand approves electricity bill cuts, boosts rooftop solar

Thailand's government approved lower residential electricity rates and expanded rooftop solar incentives, allowing households to sell excess power back to the grid at 2.20 baht per unit starting after June 2026. Over 90% of households are e

29 Apr Khaosod

BANGKOK — 29 April 2026, Thailand's National Energy Policy Council has approved two measures to cut household electricity bills and promote rooftop solar, Energy Minister Ekkanat Promphan said.

Speaking at Government House alongside Industry Minister Varawut Silpa-archa, Ekkanat said the council agreed to expand support for residential solar installations, allowing households to generate their own electricity and sell excess power back to the grid.

Under the plan, installation procedures will be streamlined under a cabinet resolution, with distribution utilities offering a one-stop service. Households generating surplus electricity will be able to sell it at 2.20 baht per unit, with sales expected to begin after June 2026.

The government will also sharply increase its solar power purchase cap from 90 megawatts to 500 megawatts per round, with further expansions planned once each quota is filled. Authorities aim to maximise adoption by effectively turning residential rooftops into small-scale power generators.

The second measure introduces a progressive electricity tariff structure for residential users only, excluding businesses, shops and industrial operators.

Households consuming up to 200 units per month will pay less than 3 baht per unit. Those using between 200 and 500 units will also see lower average costs under a tiered pricing system, Ekkanat said.

He added that more than 90% of households, around 21 million, are expected to benefit, particularly those with monthly bills below 2,200 baht.

Ekkanat rejected concerns that the policy would shift costs onto industrial users, saying the revised tariff structure applies only to residential consumers and does not affect existing rates for businesses.

To support solar adoption, the government is working with the Finance Ministry to provide instalment-based financing, allowing households to install rooftop systems at costs lower than their electricity bills. State utilities have been tasked with studying investment and offering low-cost installation services for those without upfront funds.

Responding to questions, Ekkanat said households using no more than 200 units could see bills fall by about 20%, while those using up to 400 units could see reductions of around 10%.

He confirmed the tariff scheme would remain in place for the duration of the government's term and said approval processes for rooftop solar would be simplified by removing local permit requirements. Installations for self-use must be completed within seven days, or within 30 days if electricity is to be sold back to the grid.

Varawut reiterated that the measures apply only to residential properties and would not impose additional burdens on industrial users, amid concerns raised by the Federation of Thai Industries.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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