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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Actress Returns to Stage Musical After 11-Year Break

Actress Ying Ratha Pho-ngam returns to musical theater after 11 years, starring in "Muang Marya: The Musical" at Muang Thai Ratchadamri Theatre from August 17 to September 27. Her comeback follows viral success in Netflix's "Devil's Lawyer,

Actress Returns to Stage Musical After 11-Year Break
21 Jul Khaosod

Actress Ying Ratha Pho-ngam continues to ride momentum from her viral role as attorney Jitteri in Netflix's "Devil's Lawyer," and has just announced her return to musical theater with "Muang Marya: The Musical" at Muang Thai Ratchadamri Theatre. During rehearsals, she revealed it marks her comeback to stage performance after 11 years away from her last musical, "Bachelor's Day with Old Cases."

When asked about her hiatus, Ying explained that age has brought different priorities—she now values rest and recovery to maintain focus during rehearsals, whereas in her younger days she could perform late into the night and still attend after-parties. However, she emphasized that she has always missed musical theater, which she credits as the foundation of her acting education. She expressed gratitude for finally landing a role her director and mentor Thokklerkit (Boy) felt suited her, playing the good mother character Amanda Obdum in this new production.

Ying praised working alongside renowned stage actress Suthaisini (Pat), calling her Thailand's number-one musical theater actress. She described the new musical as a reimagined version of the classic Ratchadamri Theater story told for the digital age, featuring new storytelling and new music. The production runs from August 17 to September 27, with tickets available through ThaiTicketMajor.

Regarding her recent "Devil's Lawyer Runner" fan event, Ying revealed over 400 people registered, surprising her with the turnout. Since she enjoys fitness activities, she combined the fan meet with a running event and plans to make it a monthly occurrence, though she may limit participation numbers.

When asked about comments that "Ying never dies" in terms of career comebacks, she acknowledged life goes in cycles every 10-12 years, but noted she focuses on self-care and fulfilling her responsibilities. She described the pressure from juggling both "Devil's Lawyer" and the musical as positive pressure—motivating her to maintain quality across all her projects.

On "Devil's Lawyer" ranking fourth globally on Netflix, Ying expressed pride that Thai audiences and international viewers continue to watch Thai-made content. Regarding fan demands for a season two, she said director Anucha (Kai) has mentioned there are behind-the-scenes story elements being developed, but nothing concrete can be announced yet.

When asked about Botox treatments, Ying acknowledged she has had cosmetic procedures over the years but welcomed criticism. She noted that if audiences still connect with her performances, such treatments may not significantly impact her work. However, she admitted she plans to address past procedures—from about 20 years ago—when time permits, though this remains a future consideration.

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Tourism

Beloved Hippo Moo Deng Celebrates Second Birthday

Thailand's famous pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng turned two years old, with Khao Khiao Open Zoo hosting a three-day birthday festival featuring activities, exhibitions, and ceremonies celebrating the animal's role as a wildlife conservation am

Beloved Hippo Moo Deng Celebrates Second Birthday
21 Jul Khaosod

Thailand's beloved pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng has reached her second birthday, and Khao Khiao Open Zoo in Chachoengsao province celebrated the occasion with a "Happy Moo Deng Day" festival from July 10-12. Dr. Raviwan Phuridet, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, noted that Moo Deng serves as an ambassador for wildlife conservation and biodiversity awareness, inspiring the public—particularly children and young people—to understand the importance of protecting natural resources and wildlife while promoting education through conservation-focused tourism. The celebration offered diverse activities for visitors of all ages, including a birthday blessing ceremony on July 10, 2026, exhibitions, family craft activities, souvenir shopping, caretaker meet-and-greet events, and numerous special programs designed to create an atmosphere of joy and wildlife conservation learning. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment invites everyone to experience Moo Deng's charm firsthand and join the effort to advance environmental and wildlife conservation across Thai society.

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National

Thailand Honors Student Social Engineers Advancing Community Development

Thailand's National Research Council honored students from 38 Rajabhat Universities for innovative community development projects at the 21st National Research Festival, with winners recognized for initiatives ranging from value-added palm

Thailand Honors Student Social Engineers Advancing Community Development
21 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Minister Supchai Patumnakaul presented awards at the 21st National Research Festival under the theme "Research Synergy: Powering Research to Build Sustainable Thai Economy and Society." The event, organized by the National Research Council (NRC) with all 38 Rajabhat Universities, featured participants including NRC Director Dr. Viparat Deeong, faculty, researchers, and students from across the network.

Patumnakaul emphasized that "Social Engineers Next Gen: Student Power Toward Community Development" reflects the vital role of the younger generation in driving change, applying knowledge and innovation to improve people's quality of life and strengthen communities. Dr. Viparat noted that the NRC has long worked with the 38 Rajabhat Universities to support students in developing their potential while creating tangible benefits for communities and society.

The competition selected outstanding community development innovations from Rajabhat Universities nationwide. Top awards included the Excellence Award for "90% Fresh Sugar Products Mixed with Palmyra Palm" from Nakhon Sawan Rajabhat University; the Very Good Award for "Adding Value to Small Palm: Developing Brooches from Toddy Palm Leaves Through Social Engineering" from Songkhla Rajabhat University; and the Good Award for "Waste Bank Application Creating Happiness" from Kanchanaburi Rajabhat University.

Seven Commendation Awards were also presented to institutions including Yala, Phuket, Nakhon Pathom, Maha Sarakham, Phetchaburi, Valaya Alongkorn, and Chandrakasem Rajabhat Universities for innovations ranging from thermal energy boxes to herbal foot soaks and community enterprise development. An additional 28 Rajabhat Universities received certificates for participation, celebrating their contributions to community development through social engineering and knowledge application.

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National

1.64 Million Register for Social Security Board Election

Over 1.64 million people registered for Thailand's 2025 Social Security Board election between June and July, with formal sector workers comprising the majority of registrants ahead of voting scheduled for September 27.

1.64 Million Register for Social Security Board Election
21 Jul Khaosod

The Social Security Office (SSO) on July 21 revealed registration progress for the 2025 Social Security Board election, reporting strong turnout reflecting employers' and insured persons' interest in shaping the fund's direction. Between June 1 and July 20, 2025, 16,239 employers and 1,630,097 insured persons registered, including 1,437,848 under Section 33 (formal sector workers), 118,607 under Section 39, 46,906 under Section 40, and 26,736 former insured persons, for a total of 1,646,336 registrations. The election includes 195 candidates: 85 from the employer side and 110 from the insured person side.

While these figures remain unofficial, they show Section 33 members—Thailand's formal workforce—represent the highest proportion of registrants. Bangkok leads with 447,168 registrants, followed by Chachoengsao (104,606), Samut Prakan (98,568), Nonthaburi (70,308), Pathum Thani (68,436), Rayong (61,915), Chiang Mai (52,605), Ayutthaya (34,508), Nakhon Ratchasima (33,391), and Samut Sakhon (28,675).

Elected board members will shape policy, manage fund finances, and develop long-term benefits for insured persons, making voter participation crucial to Thailand's social security system. The SSO will announce eligible voters on August 10, with voting scheduled for September 27, 2025. Employers who registered may request document corrections once between July 1–25 at SSO offices nationwide.

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National

Student Loan Fund Warns Borrowers of Fraud Scams

The Student Loan Fund warns borrowers to verify the identity of anyone contacting them about debt repayment, as scammers are impersonating officials to steal money and personal information.

Student Loan Fund Warns Borrowers of Fraud Scams
21 Jul Khaosod

The Student Loan Fund (Korskor) has warned borrowers with outstanding debts to verify the identity of anyone contacting them about payment, in order to prevent fraud. Acting fund manager Anchalee Phuriwitthawattana stated that Korskor conducts debt collection through its own officers and authorized agents in accordance with the Debt Collection Act B.E. 2558 and the Personal Data Protection Act B.E. 2562.

Borrowers must verify that any contact about debt repayment is from an authorized Korskor representative before paying, to protect against impersonation by scammers. The fund advises borrowers to be cautious of anyone claiming to be a Korskor official and to verify information before taking action. Borrowers should not comply with requests to transfer money to personal accounts, provide personal information, passwords, or OTP codes, as Korskor and its authorized agents will never request such information via phone or social media.

Korskor recommends that borrowers verify their outstanding balance and pay through Mobile Banking at any bank by scanning a QR code, which is available anytime and anywhere, or at any Krung Thai Bank counter by providing the fund type, account number, ID number, and payment amount. Borrowers can find other payment methods on the official website www.studentloan.or.th.

The fund emphasizes that borrowers should be extra cautious of urgent requests to transfer money to personal accounts or disclose financial information, and should not comply under any circumstances to avoid becoming victims of fraud. Borrowers who need to verify information can call the Korskor Call Center at 0 2016 4888 or contact the fund's official LINE account.

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National

Thailand Launches Major Human Capital Initiative With Five Ministries

Thailand launched a major cross-ministry human capital initiative aimed at developing its workforce across all life stages, with five government ministries joining forces to strengthen national competitiveness and help the country escape th

Thailand Launches Major Human Capital Initiative With Five Ministries
21 Jul Khaosod

On July 21, 2025, at Kasetsart University's Chakraphan Pensiri Building, the government marked a historic milestone in national administration by launching the "Thailand² Empowering Thailand, Elevating Human Capital" national seminar, representing the largest cross-sectoral integration effort to date. The initiative brings together five pillar ministries: Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation; Education; Labour; Agriculture and Cooperatives; and Social Development and Human Security. The overarching goal is to create exponential results in national development by systematically strengthening the capabilities of Thai people across all life stages, preparing the nation's human resources to become the most powerful engine driving the new economy amid digital-age challenges.

Prime Minister Anudhin Charnvirakul emphasized that investing in and developing Thai human potential is the sole key to helping Thailand escape the middle-income trap and reach high-income status. He stressed that "empowering" in mathematical terms means multiplying results for exponential growth. Thailand's most powerful and sustainable form of empowerment is investing in people, as regardless of how far technology, infrastructure, and artificial intelligence advance, capable and discerning humans remain the critical variable in controlling and creating added value from those technologies.

The government established a joint public-private committee to solve economic problems (known as CRPC) last month, with four subcommittees working closely to bridge government policy and the private sector's real labour-market needs, seeking the "right exponent" to unlock potential for all Thai citizens. Prof. Dr. Yot Sananon, Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, presented the "Lifelong Support" implementation plan reflecting a vision of comprehensive Thai care across the entire lifespan. He emphasized that public welfare must not be mere charity but rather investment in human infrastructure, beginning from early childhood (0-6 years)—the most critical period. The government aims to lighten the burden on working families by restructuring early childhood centres with hours aligned to parental work schedules, alongside a redesigned system to accelerate delivery of the 600-baht child allowance to families within 30-45 days, coupled with stricter child protection laws.

For school-age children (7-18 years), the government declared war on redundancy in education through the "Return Time to Teachers" policy, boldly eliminating unnecessary programmes and cutting KPIs by 71.52%, creating positive momentum across over 30,000 schools nationwide and allowing teachers to focus on classroom instruction and student development. The initiative also promotes the Zero Dropout PLUS programme targeting educational inclusivity.

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Regional

Yala Gears Up for Fruit and Local Product Festival

Yala Province will host its Fruit and Local Product Festival August 4–6 at Chang Phueak Field, showcasing agricultural products, livestock goods, and OTOP items to boost the local economy and promote the region's farming potential.

Yala Gears Up for Fruit and Local Product Festival
21 Jul Khaosod

Yala Province is preparing to host its 2025 Fruit and Local Goods Festival from August 4–6, 2025 at Chang Phueak Field in Yala Municipality. The event will provide farmers and producers a platform to sell agricultural products, livestock goods, OTOP items, and local specialties, while boosting the province's image, stimulating the economy, promoting tourism, and enhancing community well-being.

On July 8, 2025, Vice Governor Amnuay Chutong and Vice Governor Muhammad Santipimuek, along with government officials and related agencies, held a preparatory meeting at Yala Provincial Hall to coordinate implementation of the event.

Vice Governor Amnuay Chutong said the festival aims to help farmers market agricultural products, expand sales channels for fruits and livestock products, and promote community goods while showcasing Yala's potential as a quality fruit producer and source of distinctive southern border products.

Activities will include exhibitions from the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives under the theme "Innovation, Energy Efficiency, and Sustainable Agriculture Development for Yala," durian tastings, agricultural product competitions, native and Betong chicken contests, fruit and agricultural product sales, OTOP demonstrations, and product competitions from all eight districts of Yala. Cultural performances and stage shows will be held throughout the festival.

Yala Province will hold a press conference on July 21, 2025 at the Provincial Agriculture Office to publicize details and invite the public, tourists, and interested parties to participate. The event is expected to generate income for farmers and businesses while stimulating the local economy.

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Police

Husband Killed as Mung Bean Sacks Collapse in Warehouse

A 39-year-old warehouse worker in Samut Prakan province was killed when a stack of 150 mung bean sacks collapsed on him while he and his wife retrieved bags for processing. His wife escaped with injuries but survived the incident.

Husband Killed as Mung Bean Sacks Collapse in Warehouse
21 Jul Khaosod

A husband and wife working at a mung bean processing warehouse in Samut Prakan province were struck by collapsing sacks on the morning of July 21, 2025. Police received the report at 10:30 AM and coordinated with rescue volunteers from the Po Tek Tung Foundation. The incident occurred inside a warehouse where mung beans in burlap sacks were stacked in piles of 200–300 sacks each, reaching heights of 5–6 meters with narrow walking passages between them.

Ms. Suri, 42, from Buriram Province, and her husband Mr. Wichit, 39, from Sisaket Province, were both warehouse workers tasked with lifting sacks of mung beans to feed them into a sorting machine. While the couple was pushing a cart into a narrow passageway to retrieve sacks from the right-hand stack, the left-hand stack suddenly collapsed behind them. Ms. Suri managed to free herself but was injured with bruises and body pain. Mr. Wichit was completely buried under approximately 150 sacks, each weighing 50 kilograms, totaling several tons.

Ms. Suri ran for help and rescue workers were called to the emergency line. Fellow workers quickly began removing sacks to extract the couple. Emergency responders performed CPR on Mr. Wichit but were unable to save his life. Ms. Suri received first aid and was transported to hospital. Police documented the scene and collected the body for an autopsy at the Police Hospital's Institute of Forensic Medicine to determine the exact cause of death. Investigators plan to review CCTV footage and take a formal statement from Ms. Suri once she recovers.

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National

Cabinet Approves Five-Year Fishing Plan to Combat Illegal Fishing

Thailand's cabinet approved a five-year fisheries management plan targeting illegal fishing elimination and aquatic resource restoration while boosting the fishing industry's global competitiveness and food security.

Cabinet Approves Five-Year Fishing Plan to Combat Illegal Fishing
21 Jul Khaosod

The cabinet has approved Thailand's 2566-2570 (2023-2027) fisheries management policy and plan, establishing a comprehensive framework to develop the entire Thai fishing sector. The plan targets the restoration of aquatic resources, elimination of illegal fishing practices, advancement of fisher and operator capabilities, and increased competitiveness of the Thai fishing industry to ensure food security and sustainable resource use.

Deputy Government Spokesperson Pattharadarsami Tongsluaikorn announced that the cabinet approved the fisheries management policy and plan proposed by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives. This five-year framework will guide Thailand's fisheries management and development in alignment with resource conditions, economic factors, environmental concerns, and international trade regulations, while promoting balanced and sustainable growth in the fishing sector.

The spokesperson noted that Thailand's fishing sector is crucial to national food security and economic stability, yet faces significant challenges including declining aquatic resources, climate change impacts, illegal fishing (IUU Fishing), and international trade standards. The government established this policy and plan to direct comprehensive development of the entire fishing system—from resource conservation and fishing management to aquaculture and downstream industry development.

The plan operates through four strategies and 18 tactical approaches covering aquatic resource conservation and ecosystem restoration, sustainable fisheries resource management, enhancement of fisher and operator capabilities, product standard development, technology and innovation promotion, and value-addition to fishing products. These measures aim to strengthen Thailand's fishing industry competitiveness in global markets.

Deputy Spokesperson Pattharadarsami stated that approval of this policy will serve as a critical mechanism to balance resource utilization and conservation while improving fishers' quality of life, increasing fishing industry value, and building international confidence in Thai fishing products. The sector is positioned to become a sustained driver of Thailand's economic growth.

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National

Actress Ning Pursues Master's Degree in Nutrition Science

Actress Ning Panita is pursuing a master's degree in nutrition and functional medicine to provide scientifically-backed health and beauty advice rather than relying on marketing-driven endorsements for her beauty business.

Actress Ning Pursues Master's Degree in Nutrition Science
21 Jul Khaosod

Actress and producer Ning Panita has surprised many by revealing she is currently studying for a master's degree in Integrative Nutrition and Functional Medicine at the College of Integrated Medicine at Dhurakij Pundit University. Her goal is to strengthen her knowledge of health and beauty on a scientific foundation, refusing to be merely a celebrity endorser driven by marketing but rather someone who provides consumers with accurate information. She has acknowledged her willingness to pursue a doctoral degree if possible.

Ning made these remarks after attending the opening of the eighth national academic conference SMART at Dhurakij Pundit University. She also expressed pride in her daughter Nirun, who created a surprise by appearing on the show "Across the Wall" despite having only a few days to prepare. However, Ning is in no rush for her daughter to debut professionally, wanting her to develop skills in multiple areas first since Nirun is only 13 years old.

Regarding her decision to pursue further education, Ning explained: "In today's world of self-care, beauty, and health, there are countless people speaking about these topics. But since I own a business related to beauty, whenever I speak about something, it should be based on scientific principles and accuracy. I don't want to be just selling products. In the online shopping world, people often buy because of marketing rather than genuine knowledge. That's why I decided to pursue a master's degree in Nutrition. At the very least, when I speak about something, people who trust me know it comes from truth, not from creative briefs or my personal feelings. I don't want anyone to misunderstand, especially with AI and Chat GPT becoming so prevalent—misinformation can easily spread. In the end, human relationships and trust still drive these matters."

When asked how she plans to apply her studies, Ning responded: "I hope to use this knowledge to educate others and apply it to caring for myself, my mother, my children, and my business partners. Most importantly, I want to help consumers avoid becoming victims of marketing manipulation. When I speak accurately and have credibility through my degree, people who buy from me will have correct information. As celebrities and actors, if we do this, it becomes a positive trend and soft power. Also, education has no age limit—it's never too late to learn."

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Police

Court Sentences Fraud Suspect to Nearly Five Years for Courtroom Escape

A Bangkok court sentenced a man to nearly five years in prison for helping a defendant escape from the Klong Prem Prison facility by obtaining a stolen ankle monitor key and providing civilian clothes during courtroom proceedings in Decembe

Court Sentences Fraud Suspect to Nearly Five Years for Courtroom Escape
21 Jul Khaosod

On July 21, 2569, the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road issued its judgment against defendant Prasit Chiaowkok and others, who were accused of helping another defendant escape during court proceedings. Prasit Chiaowkok was sentenced to 4 years and 12 months imprisonment. According to the court's findings, on December 22, 2565, the defendants conspired to steal an ankle monitor key from the Central Klong Prem Prison, a government facility operated by the Department of Corrections. The defendants planned and coordinated their actions: they obtained the key, provided civilian clothes (a blue short-sleeved shirt, jeans, socks, and shoes), and supplied 11,000 baht in cash to the escaping defendant. That same day at midday, the defendant requested permission to use the men's restroom on the ninth floor of the courtroom, then used the stolen key to remove the ankle monitor, changed into the provided clothes, and fled down to the third floor. The defendant was later apprehended the same day, and the provided clothing was recovered.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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