Thailand has achieved a major breakthrough in microbiology and taxonomy with researchers from the Department of Microbiology at Kasetsart University's Faculty of Science discovering a new yeast species called "Princess Yeast" (Blastobotrys princeps sp. nov.) from a biodiversity study of microorganisms living alongside wild mushrooms in Phu Phan National Park, Mukdahan province. This represents another significant step in Thai research that expands the nation's knowledge of biological diversity and opens opportunities for studying microorganism potential for agriculture, food industry, and future bioeconomy development.

The research team consists of Assistant Professor Dr. Pannida Khunnamnong, Honorary Professor Dr. Savitree Limtong, Associate Professor Dr. Nanthana Sisuuk, and graduate student Panuddha Nualthaisong from the Department of Microbiology at Kasetsart University, working with Dr. Barami Saklorat from the Forest and Plant Conservation Research Office of the Department of National Parks, Wildlife, and Plant Species. The research was funded by the Kasetsart University Research and Development Institute. The new yeast species was discovered from samples of Russula mushrooms collected from Phu Phan National Park in Nai Si Nuon subdistrict, Muang district, Mukdahan province. The research team named it "princeps" scientifically and "Princess Yeast" in Thai, a name conferred to honor Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn on the occasion of her 70th birthday celebration and to recognize her role as a patron of taxonomy and biodiversity in Thailand. The Latin word "princeps" means "the first important person, leader, and honored individual."

The discovery resulted from studying yeast biodiversity isolated from wild mushrooms, with the team collecting 60 samples from Phu Phan National Park and isolating 90 yeast strains. Using molecular taxonomy techniques to compare data against international databases, researchers found that most yeasts were previously known species. However, one strain, DMKU-TM03, had nucleotide sequences differing from all recorded species. Following polyphasic taxonomy principles—which integrate genetic data, morphological characteristics, and biological properties—the team confirmed it as a previously unreported new yeast species.

Beyond confirming the new species status, the research team also studied the microorganism's characteristics for formal classification. Results show this yeast can utilize multiple carbon sources and is currently undergoing further study for potential applications in agriculture and food industry, representing another important step in advancing basic discovery toward future practical benefit.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is tracking the Thailand Securities Depository (TSD) case involving unauthorized access to personal data of service users. SEC Deputy Secretary-General and Spokesperson Anuek Yuayuen revealed that on July 26, 2025, the SEC received an initial report from TSD regarding unauthorized access detected in the Investor Portal system. The SEC is coordinating with TSD to expedite fact-finding, determine the cause, and prevent further damage. TSD has taken action to block access from suspicious sources and user accounts, closed affected connection channels, and is closely monitoring associated risks.

Recognizing the importance of affected users, the SEC is advising the public and investors to be vigilant against suspicious emails, SMS messages, and phone calls requesting personal information, and to avoid clicking links or sharing passwords with unknown contacts. The public and investors are urged to follow updates from TSD's official channels. For further inquiries, contact the TSD Contact Center at 0-2009-9999, or report concerns and tip-offs to the SEC's Complaint and Tip-off Center at 1207 or complaint@sec.or.th.

The Department of Rural Roads (DRR) announced temporary traffic diversions on Rajaphruek Road for pavement maintenance on both inbound and outbound main lanes. Work will occur from today through October 19, 2026, from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. the following day, affecting the 6.4-kilometer to 9.9-kilometer section with alternating left and right lane closures. The DRR requests that all road users observe traffic signs strictly and follow warning and advisory signs for safe and convenient travel, and apologizes for any inconvenience. For more information, the public can contact 063-898-9598.

On his 67th birthday milestone on July 30, 2026, Phra Kru Sophon Phatwedt, known as "Luang Pho Od" and abbot of Wat Saimai in Pathum Thani, transformed his auspicious day into an opportunity for public merit-making. He donated 100,000 baht toward purchasing land and constructing a chapel at Wat Bodhi Leab in Khon Kaen's Ban Bodhi Tak subdistrict, while also distributing a total of 320,000 baht to support monks and schools in his care, dedicating this merit to his revered teachers and benefactors. The land acquisition aims to expand the temple's capacity for religious activities, develop public infrastructure, and advance Buddhist use of the facility in the future, marking another milestone in securing rural temples and reflecting his philosophy of sustainable community benefit.

Over many years, Luang Pho Od has earned recognition as a development-minded monk and educator. Beyond his roles as ecclesiastical administrator and abbot, he has actively supported temple construction, schools, medical facilities, and public welfare projects across Thailand, earning deep respect from Buddhists nationwide. In the amulet community, he is also a revered master teacher known for his "takrut luk buen" (bullet-shaped sacred amulet), with proceeds from amulet production repeatedly channeled into temple restoration, school construction, and ongoing charitable work.

His working philosophy centers on returning the devotion and support of lay followers back to society through education, healthcare, disaster relief, and development of remote temples. He is celebrated as a monk who creates tangible benefit for Buddhism while advancing social development. Though his 100,000-baht contribution represents only a portion of the total land purchase cost for Wat Bodhi Leab, it has inspired Buddhists nationwide to collectively support this expansion, which will enhance the temple's religious functions, dharma study, and its role as a community center.

On this 67th birthday occasion, disciples from all directions gathered to pay respects and merit-make according to their means, recognizing that dedicating resources to Buddhist benefit reflects Luang Pho Od's greater commitment to public welfare rather than personal celebration. This milestone exemplifies his vision of transforming important life dates into opportunities for giving, aligned with his lifelong mission to "build people, build temples, and build society" for Buddhism's future stability.

Those wishing to contribute to the land purchase fund for Wat Bodhi Leab in Khon Kaen can join the merit-making according to their capacity, working together to sustain Buddhism and strengthen the temple as a lasting spiritual center for its community.

PHUKET: A South African tourist was arrested at Phuket International Airport after security officers discovered six rounds of ammunition and a magazine in his luggage before departure.

Deputy Government Spokesman Ploythale Laksameesang announced July 27 that the government appreciates public understanding of the state welfare card screening system. A Nida Poll survey by the National Institute of Development Administration found that 43.26% of respondents were not upset about failing to qualify for the program.

The government stands ready to review the welfare card screening criteria to ensure aid reaches low-income and genuinely poor citizens with accuracy. The administration will extend usage periods for existing cardholders and broaden appeal procedures. Officials asked the public not to worry, as the government listens to public feedback and wants to carefully verify data before implementing new standards. The welfare card program has not opened for new registrations in approximately five years, leaving many eligible people without assistance.

Laksameesang emphasized that the updated welfare card database is more detailed, allowing the government to clearly segment cardholders by age group. Of over 9 million cardholders, more than 5 million are aged 18–60 and mostly lack assets or income. The government plans to use this data to design targeted assistance policies, particularly upskilling and reskilling programs to boost employment prospects and improve quality of life for working-age cardholders, rather than relying solely on welfare benefits.