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No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Thailand Eyes Economic Growth With 400 Billion Baht Loan

Thailand's government has secured a 400 billion baht emergency loan approved by the Constitutional Court to boost economic growth through infrastructure and energy transition projects, with officials warning that success depends on effectiv

Thailand Eyes Economic Growth With 400 Billion Baht Loan
2h ago Khaosod

Secretary of Thailand's National Economic and Social Development Council Donucha Pitchyanan said the 400 billion baht emergency loan will strengthen the economy if deployed effectively, speaking July 10 at the new Sadao Customs building in Songkhla province.

With the Constitutional Court approving the loan as constitutional, the government can now advance planned projects. Pitchyanan acknowledged current global uncertainties, including tentative U.S.-Iran ceasefire negotiations, requiring Thailand to monitor developments closely and prepare for potential energy price volatility.

Regarding the second tranche of 200 billion baht for energy transition, Pitchyanan said discussions are underway to support citizens installing solar panels to reduce monthly electricity bills, though implementation details remain under discussion. He stressed the focus must be on energy conservation.

On the Transport Ministry's electric vehicle transition program, Pitchyanan said clearer frameworks must be established before proceeding. The old-for-new vehicle exchange idea has limitations because there's no clear plan for disposing of old vehicles, requiring alternative approaches.

When asked if the emergency loan will boost this year's GDP, Pitchyanan expressed confidence that the budget will increase economic certainty and private sector confidence, likely improving overall economic conditions. However, success depends on whether the 200 billion baht is actually disbursed on target.

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Breaking

Spain Wildfire Kills 12 As Heat Wave Intensifies

A wildfire in southern Spain's Almería province killed at least 12 people on July 10, with some victims found trapped in vehicles as the flames swept through forests amid an intense heat wave affecting much of Europe.

Spain Wildfire Kills 12 As Heat Wave Intensifies
2h ago Khaosod

Spain's southern Andalusia region reported at least 12 deaths from a wildfire in Los Gálladrós, Almería province on July 10, with six others injured. Some victims were found inside vehicles engulfed by flames. Witnesses believe the fire was triggered by damaged electrical wires that rapidly spread to nearby forests, though authorities have not yet confirmed the actual cause.

The disaster strikes as Spain and much of Europe face severe, sustained heat waves that have sparked wildfires across southern European regions, including France, Portugal, and Spain. Local government head Juanma Moreno described it as a tragedy, with approximately 150 firefighters working to extinguish the blaze in a small village.

The fire has forced authorities to close multiple roads while over 1,000 residents were evacuated to temporary shelters. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez previously announced that Spain would mobilize its largest wildfire response effort of this summer season.

June saw Spain record its highest average daily temperatures in 76 years, with some days breaking historical records for that month. Certain Spanish regions may experience temperatures as high as 42°C. In 2025, Spanish forests burned across 393,000 hectares—the highest figure on record—representing damage six times greater than Spain's 2016-2023 average.

The European Forest Fire Information System (EFFIS) noted that this damage far exceeds historical norms, driven primarily by climate change, which has pushed global temperatures higher and made Europe the fastest-warming continent—warming at twice the global average rate.

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National

Minister Denies False Claims Over Flood Budget Cuts

Deputy PM's office minister denies claims of flood budget cuts to Haad Yai, saying the municipality rejected 99.5 million baht in proposals and instead has over 200 million baht in unused accumulated funds.

Minister Denies False Claims Over Flood Budget Cuts
2h ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister's Office Minister Praradorn Prishananantakul posted a video clarification through his personal Facebook page addressing allegations from the 'Lomfa Akad' page questioning how severe the government's alleged budget cuts to Haad Yai were. Praradorn said he traced the claim to Songkhla MP Jury Noomkaew of the Democratic Party.

At a special meeting of the government-private sector committee on July 8, PM Anuthon Chaiyaphichayakul and the Interior Minister convened to address flooding issues in Haad Yai, Songkhla province. The Songkhla private-sector committee had proposed a 99.5 million baht budget to solve irrigation canal problems in the area.

Praradorn noted the real issue was that Mayor Nakhon Haad Yai Narong Porn Na Patthalung complained that the proposed budget didn't prioritize the municipality despite it being the hardest-hit flood area. He explained that he consulted various agencies, particularly Haad Yai Municipality, about their budget requests and found they rejected those proposals in favor of using accumulated funds.

After meeting with Deputy PM Piphath Ratchakij and relevant agencies, Praradorn confirmed the government would use a central budget of 457 million baht to fix Royal Canal No. 1 before October and the rainy season arrives.

Praradorn challenged Haad Yai residents to verify the facts, stating: "I want to tell Haad Yai people complaining about government neglect: do you know what your municipality requested in the 2024 budget? Not canal repairs or drainage—they requested four smart classrooms, roads, and 8 million baht for a jet ski. I was shocked. I'm not lying. I have all the data to share so you hear the other side of the truth."

He added that people should fear dishonest politicians who hide facts. Some MPs claim the government cut budgets, but that's untrue—the real issue is that Haad Yai Municipality has over 200 million baht in accumulated funds sitting unused.

"I don't fear capable people—we can debate data," Praradorn concluded. "I fear skilled liars because it's dangerous. They know just a bit of truth but exaggerate it with sad faces and false stories. I ask Haad Yai residents to consider information from the government's side as well."

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Police

Police Arrest Drug Courier in Cross-Border Heroin Case

Police arrested a man using the alias "Rin Rin" in Phayao province on July 10 for coordinating heroin shipments to Australia via a Thai flight attendant. The arrest is part of a larger cross-border trafficking network under investigation by

Police Arrest Drug Courier in Cross-Border Heroin Case
2h ago Khaosod

In a major breakthrough in an international drug trafficking case, police arrested a suspect using the alias "Rin Rin" on July 10, 2025, in Phayao province. The arrest is connected to the case of a Thai flight attendant who was apprehended in Australia with drug-filled luggage.

The Narcotics Suppression Command, alongside investigators and Phayao provincial police, apprehended Ekawit, the person operating under the alias "Rin Rin." He allegedly coordinated with a courier named Uthai and facilitated communications with the flight attendant to transport the suitcase to Australia.

During initial questioning, Ekawit admitted to being "Rin Rin" and communicating with the flight attendant through messaging applications to arrange the international luggage shipment. He also provided details about another suspect using the alias "Rose Rose," who had also contacted the attendant. Investigators are still determining whether "Rose Rose" is the same person or connected to the same trafficking network.

Following his arrest, police took Ekawit to a location in Chiang Kham district, Phayao province, to reconstruct the crime for the investigation file. He was then transferred to the Narcotics Suppression Command for further interrogation.

Meanwhile, senior narcotics officials traveled to the Phayao provincial police operation center to oversee the case progress and conduct additional questioning. On the same day, four major agencies—the National Anti-Corruption Commission Office, the Special Cases Investigation Department, the Narcotics Suppression Command, and the Metropolitan Police Command—held a joint meeting to share intelligence and plan further investigative steps. They created a network map of the international drug trafficking operation to identify and prosecute remaining members.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Three Mayuree Naree Crew Sue Employer for Unfair Dismissal

Three crew members of the Mayuree Naree sued their employer after being dismissed following an attack in the Hormuz Strait during U.S.-Iranian tensions, claiming wrongful termination and seeking compensation for PTSD and lost wages.

Three Mayuree Naree Crew Sue Employer for Unfair Dismissal
2h ago Khaosod

Three crew members of the Mayuree Naree—Panidit Tumkaew (42), Nopphadon Wongsuwarn (33), and Suradej Maenpeun (32)—filed suit at the Central Labor Court on Rama IV Road against Precious Shipping Public Co. Ltd. (PSL), Precious Flowers Co. Ltd., Great Circle Shipping Agency Co. Ltd., and Captain Sathapon Hoksai. The crew alleges wrongful termination and seeks compensation for occupational hazards and psychological harm under Thai Civil and Commercial Code sections 420 and 425.

The dispute stems from orders to navigate the Hormuz Strait on March 11, 2026, during U.S.-Iranian military tensions. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) had declared the strait closed to foreign vessels, yet the employer sent the ship through anyway. The Mayuree Naree was attacked, resulting in casualties. All three crew members have since been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and are unable to work.

Attorney Kanthaphat Singtong stated that the crew received only two months of compensation (February-March) before being terminated in April, despite their nine-month contracts. The employer denied responsibility in prior negotiations. The crew argues they have lost their livelihoods due to trauma and fear of loud noises, requiring ongoing medical care. Panidit noted he worked for the company since 2015—11 years—and received regular wages until the incident. The employer claimed termination was for medical leave due to PTSD's impact on daily functioning, but the crew contends they deserve full contractual compensation and medical coverage.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Regional

ADB Grants $2 Million To Restore Songkhla Flood Areas

The Asian Development Bank has granted Thailand $2 million to restore Songkhla province areas damaged by 2024 flooding, with Prime Minister Anutin receiving the funds at a ceremony in Sadao.

ADB Grants $2 Million To Restore Songkhla Flood Areas
2h ago Khaosod

On the morning of July 10, 2025, at the new Sadao Customs Building in Songkhla province, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the Interior Minister witnessed the receipt of $2 million in grant assistance from the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The funds are designated to help mitigate the impact and rebuild areas damaged by severe flooding in Songkhla province. The Ministry of Finance signed the grant agreement with ADB following cabinet approval to receive the assistance on behalf of the Thai government, with the resources to be directed toward restoring flood-affected areas in Songkhla from the 2024 disaster.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Asia Era One Denies High-Speed Rail Withdrawal

Asia Era One Limited clarified that its recent contractual notice does not signal withdrawal from the three-airport high-speed rail project, but rather an exercise of rights to address implementation challenges including a drainage canal is

Asia Era One Denies High-Speed Rail Withdrawal
2h ago Khaosod

Asia Era One Limited has issued a clarification regarding news coverage of its submission of a letter exercising contractual rights related to the three-airport high-speed rail project investment agreement. Some reporting may have created misunderstandings about the project's status, the company's intentions, and the contractual process.

Asia Era One emphasizes that the letter represents an exercise of rights outlined in the investment agreement to protect contractual interests and provide factual information about project implementation according to agreed procedures. The company clarifies that this does not constitute a decision to withdraw from the project or immediately terminate the contract. Project considerations remain subject to contractual and legal processes.

Since signing the investment agreement, both parties have identified certain facts and constraints affecting project implementation, particularly regarding a public drainage canal in the Makkasan area, which concerns project development and land utilization. The parties have continuously discussed and established implementation approaches to allow the project to proceed under changed circumstances.

Significant changes in economic, financial, and investment conditions have made it necessary to jointly consider contract amendments with relevant agencies. This process remains under review and affects project readiness in multiple areas.

Regarding investment promotion, the project received Board of Investment (BOI) principal approval in 2565. Throughout this period, the company has received continuous BOI cooperation in implementing various procedures. However, the investment promotion certificate expired in 2567. Reapplication for the certificate requires clearer project details and conditions, some of which remain under discussion regarding contract amendments, affecting this procedural step.

These matters should not be interpreted as BOI withdrawal of support or disapproval of project implementation.

Exercising contractual rights is part of the process available to both parties under the investment agreement framework. Project implementation approaches remain subject to contractual and legal processes and cannot automatically be interpreted as breach of contract, abandonment, or fault of either party.

Srisadi Jinsatit, Chief Executive Officer of Asia Era One Limited, revealed that throughout this period, the company has continuously cooperated with the State Railway of Thailand, the Eastern Economic Corridor Policy Committee Office (EECOPCO), and relevant agencies to jointly consider appropriate approaches for project implementation within the framework of the contract, law, and national interest.

Asia Era One Limited remains committed to project implementation and believes that collaboration among all stakeholders will lead to appropriate, fair approaches that maximize benefits for the nation, people, and all stakeholders. The company continues to uphold good governance principles, transparency, and accountability.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Nawat Dismisses Drama, Denies Involving Outsiders

Nawat Isaragunsil, CEO of Miss Grand International, said a celebrity dispute involving Thanya, Ning Patama, and Peck Sananchai is essentially resolved, dismissing interference from uninvolved outsiders and expressing frustration with ongoin

Nawat Dismisses Drama, Denies Involving Outsiders
2h ago Khaosod

Nawat Isaragunsil, CEO of Miss Grand International and administrator of the Miss Universe Organization, addressed the celebrity drama involving Thanya, Ning Patama, and Peck Sananchai during an interview at a blessing ceremony for the film "LADY BEE" at Central World.

When asked if there were unresolved aspects of the dispute, Nawat stated: "I think it's basically over, but there's been some ongoing chatter. Ning already said she's not accepting everything from Peck and isn't involved in work matters anymore. Thanya sent an apology message, which I saw. I have proof of the message." He added that the situation should now be concluded.

Nawat expressed frustration with third parties inserting themselves into the dispute: "What surprised us is that some people who aren't involved—who aren't the couple or the third party mentioned—have been inserting themselves. I don't want to pay too much attention. I haven't even read most of it because I'm worried about getting upset. My head doesn't need any more noise right now. People send me things but I don't read them. I only just started reading yesterday."

Regarding Ning's stress levels, Nawat said she's been improving, noting that they were together in Chiang Mai and encouraged her not to worry. He emphasized that everyone involved earns their living and joked about the drama being shared around.

Nawat concluded philosophically: "This wouldn't have happened if it didn't start. But once it does, it gets loud. You have to be patient because feedback is necessary—society likes this, society notices it, and society wants to stir it up. So if something has started, accept it. If you must endure it, the best solution is simply not to do it in the first place."

When asked if he feared the controversy would damage anyone's image, Nawat replied: "It doesn't matter. If it sticks, it's fine. It's not a problem because we're not paying attention to it anyway."

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Senator Accuses Pheu Thai Of Spreading Misinformation

A Thai senator accused Pheu Thai Party of spreading false information about a draft law on youth rehabilitation, arguing the government already has existing procedures for criminal record expungement while the party refuses to accept parlia

Senator Accuses Pheu Thai Of Spreading Misinformation
2h ago Khaosod

Senator Phisit Abhiwatthanapos accused the Pheu Thai Party of creating and spreading false information to deceive youth and damage institutions. He emphasized that the government already has rehabilitation plans and criminal record expungement procedures for youth. On July 10, 2025, at parliament, Senator Phisit addressed Nattapong Ruengpanya, Pheu Thai's list MP and party leader, alongside Sirikanya Tansukul, a list MP and deputy party leader, who issued a statement clarifying a Facebook post regarding the draft Peace-Building Society Enhancement Act.

Senator Phisit, directly addressed in the dispute, provided clarifications on the allegations, requesting that Pheu Thai stop distorting the bill's appendix and related senator disqualification cases. He stated that the appendix was barely modified, with only additions regarding violations of the Aviation Act of 1978 and 2015, unrelated to elections or senator disqualifications.

He criticized Pheu Thai for claiming the post was not fake news while displaying fake news behavior. He noted that while the party claims to uphold the parliamentary system, they refuse to accept parliament's majority vote approving the bill. He urged them to post-then-delete-then-deny strategy, stating that as the country's second-largest party enjoying public trust, they should not undermine that confidence. "If you're wrong, admit it clearly," Phisit said, "don't turn your party page into an IO page."

Regarding Nattapong, Phisit noted he often uses youth as a pretext while pushing Article 112 issues. The Senate added a clause to Article 11, paragraph two, stating the law does not grant amnesty in all Article 112-related cases. Phisit emphasized that youth rehabilitation processes for criminal cases already exist under the Juvenile and Family Court's authority.

Phisit clarified they don't intend to create new standards allowing certain ideologies to mislead uninformed youth. The Juvenile and Family Court already has assistance processes under Articles 90/1 and 132, applicable to all cases, not just Article 112 violations. If youth confess with a rehabilitation plan, they avoid imprisonment. Upon completing the plan, the court dismisses the case and the youth has no criminal record. The Senate does not want Article 11's amendment to conflate Article 112 defamation cases with political disputes, nor to create new standards misleading youth into thinking both issues are identical when they are fundamentally different.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Electric Bus Rentals Offer Green Alternative For Organizations

Organizations are increasingly turning to electric bus rentals to reduce carbon emissions and demonstrate environmental commitment while providing employees with comfortable, quiet transportation.

Electric Bus Rentals Offer Green Alternative For Organizations
3h ago Khaosod

As global focus shifts toward sustainability and environmental protection, electric bus rental services are gaining popularity as a practical solution. Beyond reducing carbon dioxide emissions, EV bus rentals enhance corporate image by demonstrating environmental commitment and social responsibility.

Why Modern Organizations Should Choose EV Bus Rentals

Selecting EV bus rentals is more than following green trends—it's a long-term investment that creates organizational value. Electric buses produce significantly lower emissions than traditional diesel engines, reducing PM2.5 particulates and noise pollution during travel. EV bus rentals help organizations clearly demonstrate their environmental stance, an increasingly important factor for customers, investors, and business partners. A key reason many organizations choose electric bus rentals is reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Electric buses run on battery power instead of fossil fuels.

When organizations use bus rental services for large-scale employee transportation, they significantly reduce personal vehicle use and fuel consumption, directly lowering their corporate carbon footprint. In many countries, electric buses are part of smart city development and climate change reduction plans, demonstrating that EV bus rentals truly align with the future of transportation.

EV Bus Rentals With Superior Comfort

Beyond environmental benefits, EV bus rentals provide enhanced travel comfort. Electric buses feature quiet operation, reduced vibration, and smooth rides. Passengers can rest, work, or hold meetings efficiently during transit—ideal for organizations seeking to improve travel quality for employees and executives.

Bus rental is a new solution meeting modern organizational needs across value, comfort, and environmental responsibility. Choosing EV bus rentals reduces carbon emissions, cuts air pollution, and supports sustainable transportation while elevating corporate image as contemporary and environmentally conscious. If your organization seeks a transportation solution benefiting both business and environment, EV bus rental is an answer worth considering.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Community

Thai DJ Matoom Chases Korean Entertainment Dreams

Thai DJ Matoom self-taught Korean and now works monthly in South Korea as a model, actor, and host, crediting determination over luck for his success in the competitive entertainment industry.

Thai DJ Matoom Chases Korean Entertainment Dreams
3h ago Khaosod

DJ Matoom, full name Matoom Techin, shared his story while participating in a blessing ceremony and costume fitting for the Thai series "TIMEZONE เขตรักอันตราย" at Canvas Studio by Charcoal Design on Ladprao 71. His decision to pursue work in South Korea as a model, actor, and host came after he committed to self-teaching Korean language and flying to Korea monthly for work.

"It's not just luck," he explained. "It's the result of genuine effort. I taught myself Korean, practiced, and memorized vocabulary on my own. I now have regular shows in Korea through applications and online platforms where I must speak Korean as the main language, barely speaking Thai at all. I switch between English and Korean, and I fly there every month—I'm heading back on the 20th."

When asked why he chose to pursue South Korea's entertainment industry despite its difficulty, Matoom acknowledged the challenge. "It's the hardest thing I've done. I tried Vietnam before, but the context there is similar to Thailand. Korea is completely different. I like myself there because I get to start from zero again. In Thailand, I might be at number one hundred, but in Korea, every job is a fresh start—modeling, acting, hosting—everything."

He praised the professionalism of Korean film sets. "Even small scenes like chopping vegetables require meetings about camera angles and degrees. In Thai productions, we're not just in front of the camera but also serve as production houses. Getting to work there lets me bring their behind-the-scenes experience back to my own productions."

On his Korean language proficiency, Matoom remained humble. "I don't dare rate myself, but I was happy when someone directed me saying they'd lived in Korea for 8 years without being able to speak, but after watching my clips, they wanted to study again. I use simple vocabulary and easy pronunciation. Honestly, Korean isn't as hard as Thai—it has half the characters—but it's challenging because of vocabulary and pronunciation. It requires practice."

He emphasized that age is no barrier to learning. "I'm approaching 40, but I've given myself two years. Even if I don't succeed there, at least I'll bring back Korean language skills and become a Korean-speaking host in Thailand. There's no loss in that. Knowledge always finds a use."

His ultimate goal in Korea is ambitious yet humble. "I want to see myself on a billboard there someday—whether it's a billboard, a bus advertisement, or anything. Nobody knows me there. I've auditioned for eight jobs and only got one, facing competition from people older, more fluent, and more beautiful. But I have determination. I want to encourage people with dreams to keep pursuing them, whether they succeed or fail. At minimum, success is taking the first step."

Accomplishing modeling, acting, and hosting within one year is no small feat. "All of it happened within twelve months, all from my own effort," he said proudly. "Most recently, I was thrilled to have my first event in Korea wearing Hanbok. They saw that this Thai person could represent Korean culture. I'm grateful to the Thai Embassy in Korea and the Tourism Authority of Thailand for recognizing and giving me this chance as a Thai artist making a name there. Maybe not on Millié's level, but I'm one of the Millié's too."

Despite going international, Matoom still accepts Thai projects. "I still do. Mainly The Social Warrior and Talad Um Um—just these two things."

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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