TRAT — Far from the crowds of Phuket and Samui, Koh Kut remains one of Thailand's quietest and most beautiful island destinations — a place where jungle-covered hills meet crystal-clear seas and life still moves at a slower pace. Located near the Cambodian border in eastern Thailand's Trat province, Koh Kut — also spelled Koh Kood — is Thailand's fourth-largest island, yet it has managed to avoid large-scale development and mass tourism. Instead of beach clubs and traffic jams, visitors are greeted by coconut trees, wooden piers, fishing villages and long stretches of white sand beaches that often feel almost untouched. Koh Kut is best known for its stunning beaches and unusually clear water, especially during the dry season from November to April. Among the island's most popular beaches are Ao Tapao, Klong Chao and Bang Bao, where soft white sand and calm shallow water create postcard-like scenery. Unlike many major tourist islands, Koh Kut still feels peaceful even during high season, with many resorts spread far apart allowing visitors to enjoy quiet beaches and uninterrupted sea views. Sunset on the island is another highlight, with orange skies reflecting across calm waters and wooden fishing boats. Beyond the beaches, Koh Kut also offers lush rainforest and waterfalls hidden inside the island's tropical interior. Klong Chao Waterfall is among the island's best-known natural attractions, featuring freshwater pools where visitors can swim beneath cascading water surrounded by dense jungle. Motorbike rides through the island's quiet roads are also popular, passing rubber plantations, small villages and forested hills. Compared with Thailand's more commercialised islands, Koh Kut offers a more laid-back atmosphere focused on nature and relaxation. Traditional fishing communities remain an important part of Koh Kut's identity. At Ao Salad village in the island's north, wooden houses stand above the water while fishing boats move slowly through narrow canals, with fresh seafood restaurants serving locally caught crab, squid and shrimp. Visitors looking for a quieter experience often choose Koh Kut over nearby islands because of its slower pace and limited nightlife. Most travellers reach Koh Kut by taking a ferry or speedboat from Laem Sok Pier in Trat province, with ferries usually taking between 60 and 90 minutes depending on weather and sea conditions. Flights from Bangkok to Trat are also available, though many visitors choose to travel by bus or private car before continuing by boat. While internet access and modern facilities are available on the island, Koh Kut remains far less developed than Thailand's major beach destinations — part of the reason many visitors fall in love with it. For travellers seeking clear seas, quiet beaches and a slower island atmosphere, Koh Kut continues to stand out as one of Thailand's most beautiful coastal escapes.

A touching moment unfolded as former actress Ploy Ratanarat Euethuaiakul proceeded with her ordination ceremony in a simple yet heartfelt atmosphere surrounded by family and loved ones. Her twin sister, Petch Nala, personally performed the head-shaving ritual, creating an emotional experience for all in attendance.

Petch Nala posted a warm message to her sister saying: "I'd like to dedicate merit to Ploy as well. This beautiful path will lead us back to our true home together. I love you always. May the rest of your life be filled with peace and brightness through a noble heart."

Ploy's religious name was revealed as 'Mae Chee Ratanasiri,' with an accompanying post stating: "Mae Chee Ratanasiri and Mae Chee Suvannata, Buddhist nun, respectfully dedicate this merit. Today brings such joy. May Dharma bring you well-being."

Following the public announcement, entertainment industry colleagues and fans have flooded social media with congratulations and well-wishes for Mae Chee Ratanasiri's spiritual journey.

A road collapse in central Bangkok injured one person on May 9th at 3:16 PM. The Bangkhunnonth Fire and Rescue Station responded to the incident at the Fae Chao intersection on Charoen Sanitwong Road in Bang Kho Laem district, Bangkok. Initial inspection found a sinkhole approximately 1 meter deep and 5 meters long, which resulted in one injury. Authorities provided first aid at the scene, though the injured person refused hospital treatment.

The road remains passable but traffic is unusually congested, particularly at the Bromratchonnani intersection and the tunnel toward Bang Khun Non. Officials are actively inspecting and repairing the collapsed section to prevent further dangers to motorists. Authorities recommend that residents avoid this route if possible and allow extra travel time this evening.

Luis Suárez, the 39-year-old striker, has announced his readiness to return to Uruguay's national team whenever called upon, especially for the upcoming World Cup.

Suárez previously retired from international football in September 2024 after criticizing head coach Marcelo Bielsa's team management approach.

However, he has now reversed his position, declaring he remains open to returning to Uruguay after 19 months away from the squad.

"I have never refused my country if they want me, especially for the World Cup that's coming," Suárez stated.

"Back then, I stepped aside to give opportunities to younger players. I said some things I shouldn't have, and I've already apologized to those I needed to apologize to."

Suárez has scored 69 goals in 143 appearances for Uruguay and has participated in four World Cups with the national team.

Uruguay will compete in Group H of the 2026 World Cup alongside Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde, and Spain.

At 2:20 PM on May 9, 2025, at Don Mueang Royal Thai Air Force Base Wing 6, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul commented on former PM Thaksin Shinawatra's impending sentence reduction and prison release on May 11. Anutin stated his respect for Thaksin, noting he served under him for over 20 years and feels a bond like that between parent and child, offering congratulations to the Shinawatra family.

When asked if there would be opportunities to consult with Thaksin on matters within his expertise, Anutin said there are no restrictions, but he believes Thaksin should first spend time with his family. He remarked that Bangkok is compact enough that they may naturally cross paths someday and discuss matters then.

Anutin added that Thaksin's current situation, being newly released, is still technically under sentence reduction with limitations and restrictions on outside visitors. When asked whether analysts worry Thaksin might not abandon politics and could create political turbulence, the Prime Minister said he hasn't considered that possibility, noting only that Thaksin remains someone he respects.

Pharoh Phetchaburi United, a semi-professional league team, faces potential significant fines after failing to send any players or staff to their home match against Phetchaburi FC. The no-show stems from unresolved financial issues within the club. Under professional football league regulations Section 3.10, any team that fails to appear at a scheduled match or arrives but doesn't field players without legitimate venue issues is declared the loser and subject to penalties. First offense fines are set at 50,000 baht, with subsequent violations incurring 100,000 baht each time. The club must also cover all match management expenses and compensate the visiting team with no less than 50,000 baht in damages.