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National

Tamaang Foundation Responds to Aunt Net After She Advised a Pregnant Woman Whose Partner Wasn't Ready to Terminate the Pregnancy

The Tamaang Foundation criticized radio host Aunt Net's stance against abortion, countering that Thailand's reformed abortion laws support women's right to choose and that most people know someone who has had an abortion. The foundation arg

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A pregnant woman called in to Aunt Net's radio show "Don't Blame Me for Teaching" asking for advice about an unplanned pregnancy. While the woman wasn't opposed to having the child, her male partner said he wasn't ready to become a father, so they agreed together that she would have an abortion despite her personal reservations.

Aunt Net responded by saying she couldn't understand the concept of "not being ready." She argued that if you're truly not prepared to bring a human life into the world, you must practice rigorous contraception. If contraception fails and pregnancy occurs, she said, the question of "readiness" becomes irrelevant—what matters is accepting responsibility. She emphasized that a man refusing to take responsibility shouldn't be allowed to burden the woman with his lack of accountability. She concluded by saying that no matter how poor or difficult one's circumstances, there's always a way forward, and that at minimum, every mother can protect and care for her child.

The Tamaang Foundation, an organization that provides counseling on safe and legal abortion services, responded with a detailed counter-argument. They noted that Thailand reformed its abortion laws in 2021, and abortion is now legal and supported by government funding to ensure women with unplanned pregnancies can access free services quickly. The foundation emphasized their understanding of how difficult unplanned pregnancy can be, especially for people lacking resources.

The foundation cited statistics showing that one in three pregnant women choose to terminate their pregnancy, meaning most people likely know someone who has had an abortion—whether a friend, partner, parent, or relative. They urged people not to damage the trust of those who share their abortion experiences by judging them.

They argued that people who have abortions are not cruel or motivated by a desire to destroy life. Many delay their decision while searching for "other options" that ultimately prove impossible. Some face domestic abuse, job loss, educational obligations, spousal death, fetal abnormalities, or homelessness after becoming pregnant. The foundation noted that research shows abortion not only prevents children from being born into unpreparedness but also helps women escape generational poverty and violent relationships while improving their futures.

The foundation countered the "not ready" argument, stating that most unplanned pregnancies occur despite contraception use, and all contraception methods carry a failure risk. Women with unplanned pregnancies aren't irresponsible or thoughtless—they're making a difficult but responsible decision during their most constrained circumstances. The foundation concluded by noting that every person who has chosen abortion they've encountered has been capable, worthy of love, and with a bright future, with many going on to complete education, find meaningful work, build healthy relationships, and raise their existing children well despite limited resources.

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Police

Tourist Recounts Harrowing Moments as Diving Trip to Koh Laan Turns Deadly Amid Storm, Left Adrift Without Help

A diving tour near Koh Laan in Pattaya turned dangerous in May when tourists were left struggling in the sea during a sudden storm, with inadequate staff assistance and children unaware of the emergency situation.

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On May 20, 2025, social media users shared video clips and accounts from a TikTok user describing a join-tour diving experience near Koh Laan in Pattaya, Chonburi Province that ended in disaster when they encountered severe waves and a sudden storm at sea, sparking criticism over marine tourism safety protocols.

Other social media users claiming to have been present reported that many tourists were forced to help themselves because there were insufficient staff to assist, while some staff responses were considered inappropriate, generating further online backlash.

According to the original poster, she traveled to Koh Laan with her sister from another province and decided on May 4 to purchase a join-tour diving package as no other tour options were available. She recounted that after the boat reached the diving site, everyone entered the water normally without any weather warnings or storm alerts, despite already visible high waves and strong winds.

Approximately 10 minutes after entering the water, a staff member supervising tourists swam back to the boat and announced an incoming storm. A nearby tour boat immediately brought its tourists out of the water, but her group was left floating in the sea. As waves intensified, tourists struggled to climb aboard an increasingly rocking vessel while life buoys were swept away by waves, causing some to exhaust themselves fighting the currents and swallow seawater.

The woman reported that when her sister sought help from a jet ski operator, she was told to hold onto a buoy—even as strong waves pulled her underwater. She eventually released the buoy and swam to another boat by herself. The poster and her boyfriend were swept toward another vessel, where they were safely rescued. She acknowledged the experience as "a moment of life and death" as the wind continuously intensified, though rain had not yet fallen heavily.

The poster noted that despite many children participating in the marine activities that day, there were no clear evacuation warnings or orders. Some families kept their children clinging to floating toys in the sea unaware a storm was approaching.

Only after rain began and the storm worsened did jet ski operators gradually retrieve children back to boats, with some crying in shock. The poster called for marine tourism operators to enhance safety measures, including advance weather alerts, appropriate staff-to-tourist ratios, and timely emergency response protocols.

While no injuries or fatalities occurred, she expressed disappointment and noted she had not received any apology or explanation from boat staff or dive trip coordinators since the incident.

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National

Natural Resources Ministry Permanent Secretary Accelerates System and Personnel Review, Urges Anti-Corruption Committee to Pinpoint Vulnerabilities and Close Loopholes

Thailand's Natural Resources Ministry is accelerating an anti-corruption review after a private sector committee identified vulnerabilities across 10 agencies, with the permanent secretary calling for specific data on problematic units rath

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On May 20, 2025, Raveevan Phuridet, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment (MNRE), discussed a meeting held the previous day where a three-institution private sector anti-corruption committee presented findings from a survey of 10 agencies allegedly involved in bribery. Raveevan emphasized that the ministry takes corruption seriously and has been conducting meetings with executives, deputy secretaries, inspectors-general, and all department directors. She stressed that the government has consistently prioritized anti-corruption efforts through civil service reforms, establishment of independent organizations, enhanced transparency, and streamlined approval processes.

When asked about the Pollution Control Department's case, Raveevan noted that the ministry had invited the anti-corruption committee to participate in the May 19 meeting, though the committee did not send a representative. She compared the ministry to a factory with multiple departments and said that without specific details about which parts need fixing—whether the central policy unit, the Pollution Control Department, waste management, or wastewater divisions—it would take much longer to address problems. She emphasized the ministry wants concrete data and financial figures precise to individual units, not information intended to assign blame.

Raveevan stated there is no set timeline for the review, as yesterday's meeting marked the beginning. The ministry operates anti-corruption centers and will establish a joint working committee with the anti-corruption committee. She also noted that survey responses covered 26 agencies and emphasized the importance of understanding the specific functions of each unit before making assessments. The Secretary-General's office will serve as the central hub for complaints, coordinating with other complaint channels and ensuring fair treatment of officials during investigations. Raveevan concluded by affirming that external input, including from social media, is valuable and receives serious consideration.

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Police

Car Bursts into Flames After Striking Wild Elephant; 1 Dead

A Toyota Corolla collided with a wild elephant on a Kanchanaburi highway and erupted in flames, killing a 70-year-old passenger and injuring two others on Highway 323 near Wang Dong.

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KANCHANABURI — May 20, 2026: A car collided with a wild elephant and burst into flames on a major highway in Kanchanaburi province, killing a 70-year-old man and injuring two others, police said.

On Wednesday, the Deputy Inspector of Investigation at Lat Ya Police Station reported that the accident occurred on Highway 323 heading toward Mueang Kanchanaburi District in Moo 9, Wang Dong Sub-district at approximately 9 p.m. Tuesday. Emergency responders, including medical personnel from Paholpolpayuhasena Hospital, forensics units, Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary officials, and rescue workers, quickly arrived at the scene.

Despite streetlights in the area, the crash site was poorly illuminated. Authorities found a Toyota Corolla with Kanchanaburi plates on the roadside, its front completely demolished by impact. Fire spread rapidly from the crushed engine compartment through the passenger cabin before firefighters extinguished the blaze.

Chukiat, a 70-year-old passenger, was found dead in the front seat and later transferred to Paholpolpayuhasena Hospital. Two others were injured: driver Charn, 64, and rear-seat passenger Supanutt, 74. The damaged vehicle was towed to Lat Ya Police Station for further investigation.

Investigations revealed the vehicle driven by Charn was traveling from Sai Yok District toward downtown Kanchanaburi when, in complete darkness, one or more wild elephants from Salakpra Wildlife Sanctuary crossed the highway. The elephant had left the protected forest, crossed the Khwae Yai River, and ventured onto the road in search of food. While the vehicle was completely destroyed, the elephant's condition following the crash remains unknown.

Wildlife collisions are common on Highway 3199, which connects Kanchanaburi to Si Sawat, but this marks the first recorded fatal incident of its kind on Highway 323.

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Police

Officials Raid Protected Forest to Destroy Animal Traps Before Endangered Porcupines Face Extinction

Authorities in Nakhon Ratchasima destroyed illegal animal traps across protected forests to prevent endangered porcupines from extinction as heavy rains drive the animals to lower elevations where villagers hunt them.

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Nakhon Ratchasima — Recent heavy rainfall has driven porcupines down from mountain forests to water sources for breeding, prompting many villagers to hunt and sell them for income. However, some residents have been illegally setting traps throughout the forest, threatening rapid population decline and potential extinction. Setting traps within protected forest areas constitutes a serious criminal offense.

Nong Teng and Khao Yai Protected Forests, located in Chaloem Phrakiat District, Nakhon Ratchasima, cover approximately 10,206 rai and are predominantly mixed deciduous forest rich in teak, rosewood, and other valuable timber. The area also hosts Nakhon Ratchasima Airport (Nong Teng). During this rainy season, the district mobilized multiple agencies to destroy the numerous traps.

A Facebook user named Wiwik Suwanna posted about the operation, noting that forestry officers, police, and volunteers destroyed many animal traps in the protected area, though work continues as traps remain in multiple locations. The post appealed to locals not to set traps, as offenders face prosecution under the Wildlife Protection and Preservation Act B.E. 2562 and the National Forest Reserve Act.

District Chief Putt Pongsapeepon coordinated the May 19, 2569 operation, deploying 40 personnel including forest officers, police, and volunteers. He emphasized serious legal consequences for illegal trapping and urged residents accessing the forest to obtain proper permits rather than trespass illegally.

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National

Gold Prices Today, May 20, 2026: Gold Traders Association Announces 10th Update with Sharp Decline

Gold prices fell sharply across all ten updates on May 20, with ornamental gold dropping 950 baht per gram to 70,050 baht, though analysts predict a potential surge of 1,000-2,000 baht when markets reopen.

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Gold prices on May 20, 2026 have seen a sharp decline across all 10 announcements released by the Gold Traders Association today. The latest announcement marks the 10th update, with ornamental gold selling at 70,050 baht per gram. Compared to yesterday's close on May 19, ornamental gold has dropped 950 baht per gram. According to the Gold Traders Association's official website update at 10:08 AM, gold bars are quoted at 69,050 baht per gram for buyback and 69,250 baht per gram for selling. Ornamental gold (96.5% purity) is offered at 67,674.24 baht per gram for buyback and 70,050 baht per gram for selling. Global gold spot prices currently stand at $4,464.00 per ounce. Throughout the day's 10 announcements, prices have continuously declined, with ornamental gold starting at 70,400 baht per gram in the first announcement and falling to 70,050 baht per gram by the 10th. Industry experts predict that gold prices may surge 1,000-2,000 baht per gram when markets open tomorrow, potentially breaking through 80,000 baht per gram.

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Police

Transport Committee Launches Intensive Investigation into Train-Bus Collision, Demands Complete Facts

Thailand's parliament transport committee launched an investigation into a train-bus collision at Bangkok's Asoke-Din Daeng intersection, demanding clarification on train operator positioning, railway safety systems, and conflicting braking

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At 9:25 a.m. on May 20, 2025, at Parliament, Suppanat Minchaiyanan, a Bangkok MP from the People's Party and chairman of the House Transport Committee, announced before the meeting that the committee would discuss the train-bus collision at the Asoke-Din Daeng intersection. He invited all relevant agencies including the directors-general of Rail Transport and Land Transport departments, the Transport and Traffic Policy and Planning Office, the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), the Road Safety Fund Committee, the Insurance Commission, the Police Bureau, Makkasan police station commander, the Bangkok Mass Transit Authority, and Bangkok's Traffic and Transport Office.

Suppanat stated that the meeting must establish all facts completely. Recent reports indicate that the train operator was on board and positioned at the front of the train, so the committee needs to verify this. He also questioned whether the railway signal system meets adequate safety standards and whether there are systems beyond red flags to warn drivers in advance of obstacles ahead. He emphasized the need to first address these specific issues before expanding to broader traffic and accident problems in the area.

Suppanat noted that conflicting information persists, particularly regarding braking distance estimates ranging from 200 meters to 2 kilometers. He expressed regret that the State Railway Labor Union was not invited to this meeting but indicated they could be summoned later if additional facts emerge. He stated that the union's statement would be presented for review and that the Central Land Transport Department director, attending today's meeting, should provide complete clarification as they are already investigating the matter. If questions remain or new issues arise, another meeting can be scheduled.

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National

King Eggs Launches Automated Egg Vending Machines in Condos and Communities, Targeting 10,000 Locations Within 3 Years

King Eggs launches automated egg vending machines in Bangkok condos and communities, planning to expand to 10,000 locations within three years using smart technology to connect farms directly with consumers.

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King Eggs has partnered with Advance Vending, a subsidiary of Advance Web Service Public Company Limited, to launch an automated egg vending machine business targeting 10,000 locations within three years. Chanuwat Sivamokkh, chairman of King Eggs (Thailand) Limited, explained that the "Farm to Table" model through "King Eggs Vending Machine" elevates fresh egg sales using smart technology, connecting consumers directly with the farm and reducing supply chain complexity to meet the lifestyle needs of urban consumers seeking freshness, convenience, and ease.

The company has already installed 100 machines across Bangkok condominiums and communities with positive reception, and plans to grow the vending machine business to approximately 10% of company revenue initially. Egg packages are sold in portions of 2 eggs for 17 baht, 6 eggs for 48 baht, and 10 eggs for 79 baht, with a promotional campaign offering eggs at 1 baht per egg to introduce customers to fresh farm eggs.

Sivamokkh noted that the company invested comprehensively in machine infrastructure, backend systems, quality control, stock refill systems, inventory tracking, and consumer experience. The company utilizes IoT technology to manage farm environments and vending machines in real-time, monitoring conditions from farm to transport to machine status and inventory levels. The business also emphasizes GMP and HACCP standards throughout production, sorting, packaging, transport, and distribution, enabling full traceability and assuring consumers of clean, fresh, safe products.

Viroj Siriratanarak, CEO of Advance Web Service Public Company Limited, noted that the partnership with King Eggs exemplifies how technology elevates Thai agriculture for modern consumers. He stated that automated vending machines are evolving beyond simple retail into Smart Retail Platforms that seamlessly connect producers and consumers, offering 24-hour access while meeting consumer demands for quality, cleanliness, freshness, and product transparency.

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National

Nawat Reveals Reason for Appointing Tray Skoqt as MGI All Star Judge After Extended Discussions Without Announcement

Miss Grand International founder Nawat Anuchitr appointed TV personality Tray Skoqt as a judge for the MGI All Star pageant, delaying the announcement to avoid appearing opportunistic following her recent media prominence.

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Nawat Anucha Anuchitr, founder of Miss Grand International, has appointed Tray Skoqt (Siratthat Skoqt) as a judge for the MGI All Star pageant, sparking significant online discussion. Nawat revealed that while they had been in contact for some time, the announcement was delayed due to concerns that appointing her shortly after she became a media sensation might appear opportunistic. However, Nawat confirmed that Tray had been under consideration beforehand, citing her previous collaboration as a judge at the MUT Pathumthani pageant and their encounters at various events, which revealed her compelling perspective and thoughtful approach.

After hearing Tray's interview addressing family issues, Nawat became convinced that she exemplifies a "role model" who uses her influence to authentically reflect social concerns, praising her intellectual maturity beyond expectations. Tray confirmed her ability to fully commit to the judicial responsibilities despite her demanding schedule from the television show "Khong Krasor."

When asked about the public response, Nawat joked that "we exist because of the trend," explaining that the early announcement was necessary because Tray's image appeared in the pageant's presentation. Without prior notification, viewers might have been confused.

Nawat also addressed the family drama surrounding Tray, initially avoiding comment as he viewed it as private. However, after following her television interviews and learning more details, he reconsidered, viewing it no longer as a purely personal matter but as a reflection of societal issues—specifically domestic relationships, power dynamics, and abuse within families.

Nawat emphasized parents' responsibility to show fairness and care toward their children, questioning accusations of ingratitude when parents bear responsibility for the lives they create and protecting them from family harm. He acknowledged that Tray's case may represent just one of many in Thai society, with many victims of family violence and abuse remaining silent. Nawat noted that social media has become a safe space allowing survivors to demand justice more openly.

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Police

Update: Six Victims Identified in Train-Bus Collision

Six victims have been identified from the train-bus collision at Bangkok's Makkasan railway crossing, with families claiming most bodies as of May 20, while two additional bodies await identification.

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As of May 20, 2569, the Forensic Institute at Police Hospital has updated the list of six confirmed victims from the train-bus collision on Route 206 at the Makkasan railway crossing and Asoke-Din Daeng intersection. The identified victims are: 1. Thanatphipat Khiavwijit (Khanun), 22, a third-year student at Silpakorn University studying Information Technology; family has claimed the body. 2. Wipharuk Phaephuri (Nong Rose), 25, a former media studies graduate from Kasetsart University working as a graphic designer and part-time music pub owner in the Bangna area; family has claimed the body. 3. Ueang Manocharm, 66; family has claimed the body. 4. Thiam Puangyot, 57, a housemaid at a company in the Pratunam area; family claimed the body today. 5. Ms. Aye Aye Myint, 36, a Myanmar national; family is in the process of claiming the body today. 6. Theekha Theekhautamakorn (Thane), 33, a private sector employee; family is in the process of claiming the body today. All six victims' families have been issued documentation by Makkasan Police Station to claim the bodies. Two additional bodies remain under identification, with one family currently en route from Chiang Mai to provide DNA samples for comparison. One victim remains unidentified with no family contact yet, and authorities are urging any families with missing persons to contact the Forensic Institute at Police Hospital 24 hours a day.

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National

Government Orders Health Ministry to Monitor and Surveil Ebola Outbreak as WHO Declares International Health Emergency; No Cases Found in Thailand, Public Asked Not to Panic

The Thai government has ordered health authorities to monitor an Ebola outbreak declared a global emergency by the WHO in the Democratic Republic of Congo, though no cases have been reported in Thailand so far.

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May 20, 2025 — Ployprawai Laksameesang Chanthran, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that the government has ordered the Ministry of Public Health to monitor and surveil the Ebola outbreak in Ituri Province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which the World Health Organization has declared a public health emergency of international concern.

According to Ployprawai, Ebola is a severe viral infection spread through blood and bodily fluids of patients, including blood, saliva, vomit, feces, and other secretions, particularly in severely ill patients. Transmission typically occurs within families, among healthcare workers, or among those in close contact with sick patients and deceased bodies. Unlike measles or COVID-19, the virus does not spread easily through the air. No cases have been reported in Thailand to date.

Initial symptoms may resemble common fever, including high fever, fatigue, muscle pain, nausea, and vomiting. Some cases may involve abnormal bleeding. Without proper care, the disease can become severe with high mortality rates. However, because infected individuals typically show clear symptoms, close contacts can be tracked, quarantined, and the disease controlled more easily than certain airborne infections.

"The government has ordered the Ministry of Public Health to closely monitor the situation and coordinate with relevant agencies to prepare healthcare facilities, isolation rooms, personal protective equipment, and laboratory capabilities in case suspected cases are identified in the future," Ployprawai stated.

The public is urged to obtain information from health authorities, avoid spreading panic-inducing misinformation, and maintain basic hygiene practices consistently.

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