Thailand Sends First Homegrown Moon Equipment to Chang'e-7

Thailand's first homegrown lunar instrument, CE-7 MATCH, will launch aboard China's Chang'e-7 mission on August 24 to measure cosmic radiation and study Sun-Earth-Moon relationships from orbit.

5 Aug Khaosod

Thailand is preparing to send the CE-7 MATCH scientific instrument, designed and developed by Thai engineers, to participate in a lunar exploration mission for the first time under the Chang'e-7 program. This marks another significant milestone for Thai science and space research, underscoring Thailand's capability in space technology development, engineering, and frontier research recognized internationally.

The National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand (NARIT) under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation held a press conference announcing "Thailand's First Mission to Lunar Exploration" at the ministry headquarters. The institute announced the readiness of the Thai-made CE-7 MATCH scientific instrument to conduct lunar exploration as one of seven international scientific instruments for the Chang'e-7 mission, with partnerships including the Ministry of Education, Thai PBS, and Sea (Thailand).

A live broadcast of the Long March-5 Y14 rocket launch carrying the Chang'e-7 spacecraft into space is scheduled for August 24 at approximately 7:00 a.m. Thai time, accompanied by science, engineering, and space technology learning activities for the public nationwide.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Prof. Dr. Yotchanan Wongswadiwat stated that the success of the CE-7 MATCH mission results from continuous investment in science, research, and innovation.

The CE-7 MATCH (Chang'e-7 Moon Aiming Thai-Chinese Hodoscope) is a scientific instrument jointly developed by NARIT and Mahidol University under Thai-Chinese cooperation within the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS) project. It was developed based on scientific objectives aligned with the Chang'e-7 mission goals before being selected as one of seven international scientific instruments to orbit the Moon.

The instrument's mission includes measuring cosmic radiation or high-energy particles in space and studying relationships between the Sun, Earth, and Moon to understand radiation origins and processes that may affect humans in the future, particularly establishing knowledge foundations for long-term space exploration and lunar settlement.

Deputy Prime Minister Prof. Dr. Yotchanan Wongswadiwat stated that the CE-7 MATCH mission's success results from continuous investment in science, research, and innovation, including personnel development, knowledge creation, and cooperation among research institutions, universities, and international partners, which has raised the country's advanced technology capabilities through building upon existing knowledge to create Thailand's own knowledge and technology, enhancing competitiveness and creating new economic opportunities.

Prof. Dr. Yotchanan stated that the government aims to transform Thailand from a "technology user" to a "technology creator" by using Thai knowledge as the foundation for innovation that generates economic value, coupled with human capital development, support for frontier research, and promotion of the space industry.

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National

Thai Astronomers Study Galaxy Evolution With Data Analysis

Researchers from the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), have conducted one of the largest studies Thai astron...

5 Aug Thailand.go.th Issues

Researchers from the National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand, Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), have conducted one of the largest studies Thai astron...

No. 02 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Thailand and China Expand Technology and Space Partnership

Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), recently discussed with H.E. Mr. Zhang Jianwei, Chinese Ambassador ...

5 Aug Thailand.go.th Issues

Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), recently discussed with H.E. Mr. Zhang Jianwei, Chinese Ambassador ...

No. 03 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Thai Farmer Finds Success With Israeli Cavendish Bananas

A Lopburi farmer has found financial success growing Israeli Cavendish bananas, earning up to 360,000 baht annually per rai using sustainable methods and tissue-cultured plantlets that reduce disease and pest problems.

5 Aug Khaosod

Uncle Paiwal Jaem, a farmer from Chon Muang subdistrict in Ban Mi district, Lopburi province, is passing on his knowledge of growing "Cavendish bananas"—a venture that began as a hope to create a legacy for the next generation.

Paiwal learned agriculture from his father, a distinguished farmer, so farming became a profession he took personal pride in. After his father's death, he continued farming, starting with corn, sugarcane, and cassava, rotating to livestock during dry years. Beyond farming, he also worked as a well-digger. Over the past decade, as he felt himself aging and worried he might not live to harvest his crops, he began searching for work better suited to him—something less physically exhausting, with established market demand, and something he could pass on to his children. He became interested in banana cultivation, seeing it as a large, high-demand market.

Paiwal initially tried water bananas but was disappointed with the yields. He experimented with other varieties until discovering the Cavendish banana, a cultivar from Israel, a country renowned for agricultural technology. "Cavendish bananas are a quality variety—low in sugar, high in energy, with strong international markets, especially in Japan, so sales aren't limited to the domestic market. Importantly, you plant once and harvest for many years—you do little but gain much," he explained.

Rather than propagating from shoots, he uses tissue-cultured plantlets from quality stock to avoid plant diseases and insect problems that can affect fruit development. Before planting, he places organic fertilizer at the bottom of each hole, then plants 3 plantlets per hole, spacing them about 3 meters apart. When new shoots emerge, he removes the old ones, keeping only 3—a technique that increases yield per rai. He nourishes the soil every 6 months using no chemical inputs throughout cultivation. For irrigation, he uses a drip system powered by solar cells to reduce production costs, adjusting for climate and humidity.

"After about 5–6 months, the banana begins to flower, and another 75 days before it's ready to harvest," he noted. "One bunch has about 45 hands, each with 16–30 individual bananas. Per bunch, the price is around 300 baht. One rai yields 630 bunches, so income is roughly 180,000 baht per rai. Harvesting twice a year totals about 360,000 baht per rai—on 3 rai, that's 1 million baht. Initial investment is about 90,000 baht per rai. Although it seems like a large sum, you plant once and harvest many times. All of this comes from 10 years of trial and error, developed to the point of success." While banana growers typically use stakes to support stems against the weight of heavy bunches, Paiwal's approach differs. "At our farm, we don't use stakes because it's wasteful. We plant everything together, they grow together, and the spacing keeps sizes from differing too much."

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National

Officials Sign Order to Purge, Rebuild Local Government Staff Roster

Local government officials have signed orders to purge exam cheaters from staff rosters and rebuild the employee list, with final numbers expected to be confirmed at a committee meeting on August 5.

5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2569, at the Department of Local Administration Promotion, Wanchai Janphon, chairman of the central examination committee for local government employees (CSEE), revealed that he has already signed two proclamations to revoke the old roster and create a new one, excluding those who cheated on exams. He stated that today the committee will review implementation guidelines and report full statistics on applicants, test takers, those listed, and the number of cheaters, dividing them into two categories: those who failed both sections A and B, and those who passed both sections but had scores adjusted upward.

When asked to confirm if the number of exam cheaters totals 5,925, Wanchai asked to wait for data from the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior but said today's meeting will report confirmed figures believed to be final and accurate. He explained that today's agenda includes revoking the cheaters' roster and issuing the new one, along with establishing procedures for implementation. Provinces will be tasked with disqualifying those who failed standards by referring cases to local government organizations, which will report back to CSEE on who was removed for re-ranking.

After that, a new ranking will be determined, including decisions on whether candidates remain in the same position or move to new ones, whether those who previously declined positions should be included, and age-related eligibility criteria. Wanchai confirmed that after CSEE passes its resolution, it must report to the central committee for approval as the appointing authority.

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National

Stars Praise 'Her in Frame' Film Release

The film "Her in Frame" screens free August 22-23, with stars Toh, Leena, Nont, and Chris expressing excitement about the production and sharing how the movie changed their perspectives on love.

5 Aug Khaosod

The film 'Her in Frame' will screen free during a special two-day run on August 22-23. Co-produced by Thailand's Ministry of Energy, the Provincial Electricity Authority (PEA), and Broadcast Thai Television Company Limited, the movie features lead actors Thana Leerutanakajorn (Tor) and Lalina Chuet (Leena), alongside supporting cast members Nonthaya Imnennond (Nont) and Christopher Taylor Jindapol (Chris).

When asked about their feelings on joining the project, Nont expressed excitement, calling it a valuable production and an honor to work with skilled actors and director Ku Eaksit and the entire team. He plays Art, a quiet character who deeply cares for his friend and follows him everywhere like a devoted assistant searching for the person his friend dreams of.

Leena said this is her first film and she was thrilled and excited to deliver quality work. She plays Minthra, a museum curator of Thai textiles, and teacher Kamonwan.

Tor expressed joy at being part of the film, playing two contrasting characters—Tawan and Danai—that differ from his real personality. Chris shared his excitement and nervousness about his first film role as Nee, working alongside Leena and Ta (Athiwat), noting that while he was tense during the first scene, the experienced cast and crew helped him relax and work smoothly.

When discussing challenges, Chris cited his nerves as a first-time actor working with skilled professionals, questioning whether he was performing correctly. Leena mentioned concerns about translating theater acting techniques to film and initial anxiety working with the experienced Tor, though she soon realized his discipline and dedication. Tor humorously revealed his biggest struggle was Thailand's heat, which left him with watch-strap tan marks on his arms that persisted through filming. Nont joked about his character's inconsistent wardrobe—wearing a head wrap, hat, and long sleeves with short pants—and the challenge of delivering cute insults when he naturally tends to speak bluntly.

Regarding how the film changed their perspective on love, Chris felt it taught him that true love transcends time and distance. Leena noted that seemingly impossible things in the world can happen, including matters of the heart. Tor emphasized that compatibility between two people doesn't depend on others' opinions, profession, status, or age—compatibility simply exists or doesn't. Nont poetically suggested the film shows a love so destined it's as if two people were born as a pair, regardless of circumstances.

Asked to convince hesitant viewers, Nont urged people not to doubt themselves, noting the chemistry between Tor and Leena feels natural and the cast worked hard. He also highlighted that it's free to watch. Tor called it a film requiring no emotional barriers to enter, inviting viewers to experience it without risk over the two-day screening.

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Police

Police Launch Youth Detective Program on Drug and Cyber Safety

Police launched the 'Young Detective' youth program at Suwannaram Witthayakom School on August 3, teaching students drug awareness, cybersecurity, and self-defense through interactive training modules.

5 Aug Khaosod

Police led the 'Young Detective' program in collaboration with the 'Jo Jae Catch Thieves' teaching team to provide cybersecurity and drug abuse prevention training to students at Suwannaram Witthayakom School. The August 3 event was supported by school director Nakkanda Pichayasat and featured four key learning modules: survival tactics and self-defense in emergencies, drug awareness and recognition, safe internet usage and online threat management, and fraud and cybercrime awareness. Students engaged in intensive, scenario-based learning activities designed to equip them with practical knowledge for personal and community safety, while enjoying interactive experiences and prizes throughout the event. Deputy Police Commissioner Thiradej Thammasutheei stated that the Drug Suppression Center partnered with the Jo Jae Catch Thieves team to reach middle and high school students, emphasizing youth-focused prevention aligned with national policy and the Royal Thai Police's commitment to building a safer society.

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National

Foundation Announces 25th Scholarship Class for Gifted Youth

The Damrongchai Dharma Foundation has announced its 25th scholarship cohort, providing full educational support to high-achieving youth without financial means across Thailand's universities. Six recipients pledged to give back to their com

5 Aug Khaosod

The Damrongchai Dharma Foundation, led by chairman Paiboon Damrongchai, continues its scholarship program "Building People, Building Graduates" to provide educational opportunities for high-achieving, well-behaved youth lacking financial resources. The program covers all necessary education and living expenses with no obligation for repayment, guided by the principle "Not just letting them grow, but wanting them to grow well." The foundation recently announced the selection results for the 25th scholarship cohort for the 2569 academic year.

Natthapond Srisroai, a medical student at Khon Kaen University, expressed deep gratitude for the award, saying the scholarship will help ease his mother's burden and he commits to using his stable career to provide educational opportunities to disadvantaged children as he once received.

Chavallaksa Watwoang, an arts student at Thammasat University, pledged to combine her knowledge with practical experience to develop her hometown, believing that small beginnings build strong foundations for sustainable national development.

Wanfirdao Wate, a political science student at Chiang Mai University who won the 2569 national youth excellence award in media communication, emphasized that the scholarship shows that regardless of background, dedicated individuals will find support, urging others to continue learning and pass opportunities to the next generation.

Theerapat Wangsanti, an engineering student at Chulalongkorn University, highlighted that the scholarship allows him to study confidently without financial worry, and he intends to apply his knowledge to benefit society.

Siriwan Phara, a 25th cohort scholarship recipient studying environmental science at Mahidol University, thanked the foundation for providing opportunity and light to pursue her dreams, committing to return and advance environmental conservation in her community after graduation.

Anantkorn Sakaew, a public health student at Thammasat University, expressed gratitude and renewed determination to study diligently, pledging to use the scholarship wisely for maximum benefit.

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Thailand Awards Thai Selection Seal to Chinese Restaurant Chain

Thailand's Commerce Ministry awarded its Thai SELECT certification to Thai Rice House, a major Chinese restaurant chain with over 50 branches, at a ceremony in Xiamen featuring cooking demonstrations and influencer engagement to boost Thai

5 Aug Khaosod

Thailand's Commerce Ministry promoted its Thai SELECT certification stamp at Thai Rice House restaurant in Xiamen, Guangdong Province, China, highlighting sticky rice with durian and Thai cuisine promotion through local influencers. Deputy Director-General Surinthon Suntorsanan of the International Trade Promotion Department presided over the Thai SELECT seal ceremony at the MIXC shopping mall branch in Xiamen, with restaurant manager Mr. Lin Zhi Hao accepting the award. The event featured Thai cooking demonstrations and Thai SELECT promotion by the Trade Promotion Office in Xiamen, attracting over 20 local influencers to boost awareness and confidence in Thai food standards in the Chinese market.

Thai Rice House, established in 2004, now operates over 50 branches across China and ranks among the top Thai restaurant brands receiving the Thai SELECT seal from the Commerce Ministry. The restaurant maintains Thai authenticity and flavor through carefully selected premium Thai ingredients including ginger, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, bird's eye chilies, curry pastes, and Thai jasmine rice. Some fresh ingredients are air-shipped to maintain quality, and the restaurant partners with CP (Charoen Pokphand) Group, sourcing 250 tons of jasmine rice annually while managing supply chain standards to ensure consistency across all branches.

Deputy Director-General Surinthon Suntorsanan and Thai Rice House executive chef Wicharn Pumtrap demonstrated preparing som tam and tom yum goong, globally popular Thai dishes and bestsellers at the restaurant. The event also featured a Thai SELECT certification exhibition providing information about Thai restaurant standards abroad and certification development initiatives to elevate Thai restaurant quality to international standards.

Local influencers showed keen interest in Thai ingredients and cooking demonstrations, sampling diverse dishes including steamed sea bass with lime, som tam, seafood tom yum, beef curry, minced pork basil, grilled pork neck, and Thai tea. A special menu item, "sticky rice with durian," was introduced to build on the popularity of the signature mango sticky rice while promoting Thai durian quality and flavor to Chinese consumers, receiving strong audience response.

Beyond promoting Thai SELECT certification and building confidence in Thai restaurant standards in China, the event served as an important platform for promoting Thai cuisine, Thai ingredients, and Thai fruits through local influencers to reach broader consumers, supporting Thailand's food image and expanding trade opportunities for Thai food products in the Chinese market. For more information, contact the International Trade Promotion Department, Ministry of Commerce, at 1169 or www.ditp.go.th, and explore international trade opportunities via THAITRADE.COM.

No. 09 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Thailand, Lithuania Mark 33 Years of Diplomatic Ties

Thailand and Lithuania celebrated 33 years of diplomatic relations at a Bangkok reception hosted by Lithuania's Honorary Consul, attended by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budris.

5 Aug Khaosod

Nualpraan Lumsum, Honorary Consul of the Lithuanian Republic in Bangkok, hosted a reception to celebrate the 108th anniversary of Lithuania's founding, the 36th anniversary of Lithuania's independence restoration, and the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between Lithuania and Thailand.

The event was presided over by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Foreign Minister Sihsak Poungkeat, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budris, Lithuanian Foreign Ministry Indo-Pacific Director Richardas Šlepavicius, and Lithuanian Ambassador to Thailand Darius Gaidys, alongside ambassadors from various nations, senior Foreign Ministry officials, and Lithuanian residents in Thailand. The gathering was held at The Glass House, Parknai Lert, Bangkok.

Lumsum spoke of the white stork, Lithuania's national bird, describing it as a symbol of luck, family, and unity—fundamental values that strengthen every nation and society, fostering harmony and peace. She expressed confidence that this meeting between representatives of both countries at the Foreign Ministry and Government House would elevate bilateral cooperation across various dimensions. She also hoped for the opening of a direct Bangkok-Vilnius flight route in the future, which would bring the peoples of both nations closer together and create opportunities in economy, trade, investment, and sustained mutual trust.

Lithuania's national days fall on February 16 and March 11 each year. These celebrations commemorate important historical events reflecting the courage and determination of the Lithuanian people, embodying the national motto of "Freedom, Unity, and Prosperity."

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Police

Armed Robbers Flee to Laos After 13M Baht Gold Heist

Two armed robbers escaped to Laos after stealing nearly 13 million baht in gold from a shopping mall in Chiang Rai's Chiang Khong district, crossing the Mekong River by boat after abandoning their motorcycle.

5 Aug Khaosod

Two armed gunmen robbed a gold shop inside a well-known shopping mall in Chiang Khong district, Chiang Rai province on the evening of August 4. The suspects made off with 64 baht of gold ornaments and 120 baht of gold bracelets, totaling 184 baht in stolen gold valued at 13,036,400 baht. On August 5, Pol. Lt. Col. Manop Senakul, commander of Chiang Rai Provincial Police, revealed that both suspects are Lao nationals. After the robbery, they fled on a motorcycle, parked it at the Mekong riverbank, and boarded a waiting boat to cross into Huay Sai district, Laos. Authorities have collected evidence and coordinated with immigration officials in Chiang Saen, examined fingerprints, and interviewed local motorcycle rental operators. A preliminary reward of 100,000 baht has been set for the arrest of the suspects, and Thai police are coordinating with Lao authorities to pursue legal proceedings. Lao officials have tracked the escape route and seized clothing believed to have been worn by the robbers at the crime scene, which was discarded in Huay Sai. The suspects are believed to have fled further from the Huay Sai area, with Lao authorities setting up checkpoints along various routes to intercept them.

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