A political confrontation has erupted between Thaeng-Nattapong Ruengpanyawut and a large faction of senators over the "blue regime." The clash began when Nattapong criticized the current Senate as a "blue-colored Senate," describing it as part of a broader blue regime that monopolizes both political and economic power. A group of senators has responded by demanding that Nattapong issue a public apology or face legal action, viewing his remarks as an affront to the institution's credibility and legitimacy. However, Nattapong refused to back down, insisting he had no intention to undermine the Senate but merely wanted to highlight systemic problems. This represents the Phak Pracharatchon's firm commitment not to lower its scrutiny of the political power structure, particularly regarding the Senate's origins and its role in shaping the country's direction. As noted by Aitim-Prissadej Watchrsindheu, controlling the Senate would allow a political faction to approve all appointments to independent organizations, effectively creating a monopoly on power spanning the executive, legislative, and independent branches. One significant concern is how this conflict will affect the constitutional amendment agenda, which depends on Senate support and may now face greater resistance. The confrontation has also brought renewed attention to the unresolved Senate loan case, a difficult matter for the Election Commission, as many prominent blue regime figures are allegedly implicated behind the scenes. The Election Commission itself has been accused of being a "blue regime commission." As the Senate and government officials clash with the opposition party over the "blue regime," it remains unclear how this dispute will ultimately resolve or how significantly it will impact constitutional amendment efforts. What is certain, however, is that the Senate loan case has returned to public attention, raising questions about whether most senators truly have blue-leaning sympathies or whether society has simply been misunderstanding the situation all along.

The Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) reported that listed companies achieved a combined net profit surge of 25.3% to 369 billion baht in the first quarter of 2025, buoyed by rising oil prices that drove exceptional performance in the energy and petrochemical sectors. General businesses continue to face pressure from production cost management and slowing purchasing power, while tourism, commerce, technology, and small-scale lending sectors show steady growth.

According to Asaddej Kongsiri, Chairman and Chief Executive of the SET, 813 companies—93.7% of the total 868 listed companies (including SET and mai, excluding real estate funds and infrastructure)—submitted first quarter 2025 results, with 624 companies reporting net profits, representing 76.8% of all reporting companies.

SET Overall Performance

Comparing first quarter 2025 to the same period last year, SET-listed companies achieved sales of 4.24 trillion baht, up 1.2%, while gross profit reached 1.04 trillion baht, up 24.7%. Core profit stood at 506.939 billion baht, up 56.5%, and net profit reached 369.201 billion baht, up 25.3%.

Regarding financial position as of March 31, 2025, the debt-to-equity ratio (excluding the financial sector) stood at 1.28 times, down from 1.34 times in the first quarter of 2024.

Growth Drivers and Performing Sectors

Kongsiri noted that Middle East conflicts in the first quarter drove oil prices higher, improving performance for energy and petrochemical companies through higher profit margins and inventory gains, benefiting from increased refining spreads.

General business companies face sales pressure and production cost management challenges. Commercial banks were impacted by economic slowdown, reflected in modest credit expansion and lower policy interest rates compared to the previous year.

Beyond oil-linked sectors, companies showing first quarter growth include those in tourism, domestic consumption, commerce, hotels, technology, and small-scale lending.

MAI Market Performance

For the Thailand's alternative market (mai), listed companies reported first quarter 2025 sales of 51.66 billion baht, up 3.3%, with operating profit of 3.92 billion baht, up 7.8%, and net profit of 2.526 billion baht, up 25.3%, reflecting careful management of production and selling costs.

On May 26, Chiang Kham Police Station in Phayao conducted comprehensive urine drug screening for all officers following directives from Deputy Police Commander General Samran Nualma and the Police Narcotics Suppression Bureau. The "Ethical Police" initiative requires strict oversight of officer conduct to prevent drug involvement and strengthen organizational discipline, morality, and integrity. Station Commander Colonel Thanad Chummaano, along with deputy commanders, oversaw the screening process, which tested all 158 officers with complete transparency and accountability. Results showed all 158 officers tested negative for drug use, reflecting the department's elevated standards and reinforcing its image as a model law enforcement agency in the fight against narcotics. The program builds public confidence in the police force by demonstrating that law enforcement officials maintain the highest ethical standards and are fully committed to protecting community safety.

On May 26, 2026, General Kittiratch Panpetch, National Police Commissioner, issued an urgent order regarding proper conduct of police officers in uniform, sent to deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, police majors, commanders, and supervisors. The directive notes that many police officers now appear on public media, social media, and work as influencers to advance police public relations, enhance the force's image, and help the public understand police roles and responsibilities. However, while officers wearing the honorable and dignified uniform properly maintain their appearance and grooming according to the 2566 Police Conduct Regulations when communicating information and performing public duties, they must serve as role models. The commissioner directed supervisors to oversee the dress, grooming, and conduct of officers appearing before the public media or engaged in public relations, ensuring they comply with regulations and maintain proper standards. Officers are instructed to avoid inappropriate gestures or behavior, and inspectors are to monitor and advise on these matters going forward.

Former Bangkok Governor Chatchatcharit Sittiphan, running as a candidate for his second term as Bangkok Governor, posted on Facebook on May 26 announcing his campaign's first major platform event. The event will feature the unveiling of over 250 policy proposals from his team designed to get Bangkok working across all sectors and create a leap forward toward a metropolis of hope and opportunity. The launch will occur on May 28, 2025 at 6:00 PM at Stadium One, where attendees can hear Chatchatcharit's vision and plans for his four-year tenure.

MG is creating memorable experiences and smiles for its customers by elevating service standards through its 'MG SMILE' program, reinforcing the 'In Thailand for Thailand' philosophy. SAIC Motor-CP Co., Ltd. and MG Sales (Thailand) Co., Ltd., Thailand's MG manufacturer and distributor, have announced a comprehensive service standard upgrade designed to enhance the complete customer journey from initial inquiry through after-sales support. The initiative demonstrates MG's commitment to caring service at every step and delivering satisfaction alongside world-class automotive technology tailored to Thai consumers' needs.

The sales experience has been redesigned with transparent, friendly guidance that empowers customers to confidently select the right vehicle without pressure. This is expressed through 'Five Smile Moments': First Contact Smile (welcoming reception), Discovery & Recommendation Smile (personalized vehicle suggestions), Test Drive Experience Smile (confidence-building performance assessment), Transparent Pricing & Finance Smile (clear financial information), and Delivery Day Celebration Smile (smooth handover experience).

The after-sales service journey encompasses 'Six Smile Moments' ensuring continuous customer care: Service Booking Smile (convenient scheduling), Service Arrival & Check-in Smile (smooth registration), Waiting Experience Smile (comfortable service waiting area), Service Quality Smile (efficient professional work), and additional care touchpoints throughout vehicle ownership. MG's MG SMILE framework unites all departments to systematically deliver excellence and build lasting customer relationships at every important moment of their automotive journey.