Thailand Launches Gold-Standard Fuel Pump Certification Program

Thailand's Internal Trade Department has launched a gold-level certification program for fuel pumps, with the highest tier awarded to stations meeting strict accuracy standards for two consecutive years. Bangchak and PTT became the latest r

2d ago Khaosod

The Internal Trade Department is advancing its fuel dispenser oversight standards by awarding a gold-level "Fuel Dispenser Verified" certification badge to gas stations that meet its rigorous criteria. According to department director Wittayakorn Maninet, the program aims to assure the public that they receive the correct amount of fuel fairly and accurately. The department is pushing all nationwide gas stations to upgrade toward earning the gold badge.

Today, the department presented gold-level certifications to Bangchak service stations and PTT service stations on Vibhavadi-Rangsit Road. The Internal Trade Department prioritizes consumer protection and service standard development across all fuel retailers, ensuring customers receive the precise amount of fuel they purchase every time.

The gold badge represents the program's highest tier, awarded to stations that consistently meet all criteria for two consecutive years. Certified stations must conduct regular fuel pump testing, maintain calibrated 5-liter measuring tanks updated on schedule, and employ staff trained by the Internal Trade Department in fuel testing. This demonstrates the station's capacity for self-monitoring alongside official inspections.

Currently, 12 oil trading companies participate in the program, including PTT Oil and Retail, Bangchak Corporation, Shell Thailand, and Susco. Of Thailand's 8,234 major brand fuel stations, 7,068 have enrolled in the program, representing 85.84 percent and 91.72 percent of the 2569 target. These consist of 2,091 stations with blue badges, 4,551 with silver badges, and 426 with gold badges. The department aims to increase gold-certified stations to approximately 700 by year-end 2569.

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Community

Chulalongkorn University Showcases 150 Student Projects

TOA Paint and Chulalongkorn University launched "CU Rangers," Thailand's first major exhibition showcasing over 150 student projects from five university faculties at a Bangkok venue. The partnership aims to connect young talent with indust

2d ago Khaosod

TOA Paint (Thailand) Public Company Limited, Thailand's leading paint and construction chemicals manufacturer, has partnered with Chulalongkorn University to open "CU Rangers Presented by TOA," the first such event in Thailand showcasing outstanding student projects and theses. The exhibition features over 150 works from five leading faculties: Architecture, Communication Arts, Commerce and Accountancy, Education, and Sports Science. The event is held at SIAMSCAPE on the 9th floor in central Bangkok and includes displays of student creative works alongside experiential activity booths. For example, the Faculty of Sports Science has set up areas where visitors can test their physical capabilities.

The CU Rangers event is a flagship project under a Memorandum of Understanding between TOA and Chulalongkorn University titled "The Creative Canvas—A Canvas of Thought for an Endless Future." The initiative aims to support young students' potential and provide them a platform to present their work and communicate with society at large. The event was officially opened by Professor Dr. Wileirt Puriwatthr, Rector of Chulalongkorn University, and Jatuphat Tangkaravakul, Chief Executive Officer of TOA Paint (Thailand).

Jatuphat Tangkaravakul emphasized TOA's commitment to supporting education and youth development, stating that the company believes young people's potential is a vital force for the future. He noted that CU Rangers serves multiple purposes: providing students a platform to bring classroom ideas into the real world, offering secondary school students insight into university faculties, and connecting HR professionals and organizations with talented young people. He expressed hope that this will become an annual event that grows each year.

Professor Dr. Wileirt Puriwatthr highlighted that CU Rangers represents five faculties combining their unique strengths to demonstrate that today's students are ready to apply their knowledge, creativity, and learning to make a real-world impact. He stressed the importance of TOA's partnership in providing concrete connections between academic learning and society.

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Police

Student Suffers Brain Bleeding After Ping Pong Paddle Attack

A Grade 9 student in southern Thailand underwent brain surgery after being struck with a ping pong paddle by a classmate during an elective class on June 30, prompting an assault complaint and questions about school safety protocols.

2d ago Khaosod

On July 10, a social media user shared the story of a Grade 9 student from a southern Thailand school who was hit on the head with a ping pong paddle during class, later requiring surgery for bleeding above and below the brain membrane combined with brain swelling. This sparked criticism about school safety measures.

The victim's sister told news outlets that the incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. on June 30 during an elective ping pong class. After some joking with the classmate, the other student struck the victim's head with a paddle, causing serious injury. A teacher took the victim to a health clinic and called the family around 11:00 a.m., reporting only a sports accident with a split wound on the head and bleeding. Health workers applied ice and sent him back to school, where he returned to afternoon classes as he seemed fine at the time.

However, the medical record merely stated "sports accident," raising the family's suspicion that the teacher had not fully explained the severity to health staff, potentially leading to underestimation of the injury and inadequate initial treatment.

The family later took him to a hospital where doctors discovered bleeding above and below the brain membrane, brain swelling, and a scraped wound on the right forehead. He underwent surgery. Though his condition is now stable and he can walk, speak, and smile more, the family worries about long-term brain effects.

The family has filed an assault complaint with local police, with further questioning scheduled for July 11. The school acknowledged the surgery was needed and scheduled a meeting with parents for July 14 to discuss findings and next steps. School administrators and teachers visited the hospital one day after the incident and gave 2,000 baht, but the family felt the support was insufficient.

The accused student's family visited on July 4, apologized, and promised to return July 6 but never came, with no further contact or financial assistance. The victim's family bears all medical costs themselves as the school's accident insurance cannot be claimed—this is classified as assault, not a typical accident. The family also worries about long-term brain-related treatment needs.

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National

Thailand Uses AI To Prepare Athletes For Asian Games

Thailand's Sports Authority is using artificial intelligence and advanced sports science to analyze Thai athletes' performance and identify strengths and weaknesses of competing nations ahead of the 2026 Asian Games in Japan, where 667 athl

2d ago Khaosod

Thailand's Sports Authority is entering the digital era. Director Dr. Kongsakdi Yodmani announced that the organization is using artificial intelligence and advanced sports science to conduct detailed performance analysis of Thai athletes while scanning the strengths and weaknesses of competing teams ahead of the 20th Asian Games.

Dr. Kongsakdi Yodmani, director of Thailand's Sports Authority (TAT), disclosed progress on preparing the Thai national team for the 20th Asian Games scheduled for September 19 to October 4, 2026 in Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture, Japan. He explained that athlete selection follows strict criteria, primarily requiring qualification from individual sports federations and consideration of world rankings with medal potential. Athletes must also be capable of advancing their performance toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics to be eligible.

The Thai team competing at the 20th Asian Games comprises 667 athletes from 47 sports federations after the official deadline. An additional 20 male hockey players were added later following another nation's unexpected withdrawal, which allowed Thailand to move up in the rankings.

Dr. Kongsakdi further stated that in preparing Thai athletes, Thailand's Sports Authority and the National Sports Development Fund have implemented data and statistics analysis using advanced technology, incorporating artificial intelligence as a foundational database to identify strengths and weaknesses of Thai athletes and their opponents.

"The primary application of AI for Thailand right now focuses on sports science," he explained. "We use AI to analyze athletes' physical performance and readiness, and we compile competitor data to identify their weaknesses and strengths for the 20th Asian Games and 5th Asian Paralympic Games in Japan. While this represents our starting point with AI, we plan to expand significantly in the future, implementing intensive AI technology for comprehensive, in-depth analysis of both our athletes and competitors," Dr. Kongsakdi said.

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National

Star Hunter Launches 'Time Zone' Romantic Series

Star Hunter Entertainment launches 'Time Zone: Dangerous Love Zone The Series,' a 1990s-set romantic drama reuniting the production company with school-themed storytelling after over a decade away. The series follows opposite personalities—

2d ago Khaosod

Star Hunter Entertainment has officially launched 'Time Zone: Dangerous Love Zone The Series,' transporting viewers back to the 1990s while bridging Gen X and Gen Z through a tale of opposite-pole romance. After stepping away from school-themed series for over a decade, the project marks a significant return for the company. The blessing ceremony and production prep have already been completed at Canvas Studio by Charcoal Design on Ladphrao 71.

Company Chairman O Yachon Kannarunn, CEO First Chanan Lapanonrunrung, and Director Mi Phuwadol Naowsopa discussed what makes the project special: it connects 1990s nostalgia with contemporary teenage romance, exploring a relationship between a student president and a mischievous back-of-the-class troublemaker—complete with romance, drama, and comedy. Matoom Tetchin Ploychaipon expressed enthusiasm about taking on a new role as school director, with DJ Tanhaum adding color to the cast.

When asked about the project's origins, Chairman O explained: 'Star Hunter has always been about series and films, offering complete entertainment. But we haven't made short-form BL series in a long time—not since Love Sick, over 10 years ago. Many people miss that Love Sick or Ruk Raeng Siam atmosphere from the 1990s when we were young. Time Zone will be special because it connects the 1990s past with the present, blending nostalgia with current teen experiences across all 10 episodes.'

CEO First described how the story bridges generations: 'This comes from our direct experience between Gen X and Gen Z. The plot has a nostalgic, romantic atmosphere, but the main setting is contemporary. The real charm is watching these polar-opposite characters meet—a student president and a delinquent—each with their own secrets that unfold throughout the series. Viewers will wonder how they could possibly fall in love.'

Director Mi shared insights on casting: 'We bought the novel two to three years ago but waited for the right casting. When Paya (Pipisarn Wuttiwat) and Amas (Amas Phiwphum) came on board, we knew they perfectly embodied their characters and are genuinely Gen Z. We're exploring the generation gap—like what happens when parents' courtship tactics are used in modern dating. There will be plenty of such hooks throughout the story.' On directing newcomers, Mi added: 'Though they're fresh faces, they're dedicated and hardworking, even sending homework assignments at 2-3 AM. I believe they have bright futures ahead, each with distinct personalities.'

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Tourism

Air Asia And Thailand Tourism Board Sign 3-Year Partnership

Air Asia and Thailand's Tourism Authority signed a three-year partnership to boost regional tourism through coordinated marketing and expanded flight connectivity, with the airline currently operating 123 weekly flights linking Malaysia and

2d ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2025, Air Asia Group Berhad (formerly Air Asia X Berhad) and Thailand's Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) deepened their long-standing relationship by signing a three-year memorandum of understanding (2025-2028). The agreement was witnessed by Prime Minister Aneutin Charnweerakul, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phipat Ratchakitprakarn, and Tourism and Sports Minister Surasak Phancharoenjit, along with Thai government officials, to jointly promote Thailand as a leading tourism destination in the region.

The three-year cooperation framework (2025-2028) represents a shared commitment to stimulate tourism, strengthen regional connectivity networks, and inspire numerous travelers to experience Thailand's diverse tourism offerings. Under this partnership, Air Asia and TAT will collaborate on integrated marketing campaigns utilizing Air Asia's marketing platforms, communications channels, and tourism digital ecosystem to enhance Thailand's appeal and support continuous tourist growth in key markets.

Both parties will closely coordinate to promote existing and new flight routes while sharing market insights to understand evolving travel trends and unlock new tourism growth opportunities. Currently, Air Asia Group operates 123 weekly flights between Malaysia and Thailand through Air Asia Malaysia (flight code AK) and Thai Air Asia (flight code FD), connecting travelers via eight direct routes: Kuala Lumpur to Bangkok (Don Mueang), Chiang Mai, Phuket, Krabi, and Hat Yai; Penang to Bangkok (Don Mueang) and Phuket; and Johor Bahru to Bangkok (Don Mueang). This comprehensive network provides seamless and cost-effective connectivity for both countries.

As a leading Southeast Asian airline group, Air Asia will leverage its extensive route network and digital ecosystem to promote Thailand to millions of regional travelers, supporting TAT's "Amazing Thailand, Feel All the Feelings" campaign and attracting visitors to experience Thailand's rich culture, world-class hospitality, and diverse attractions.

Faruq Kamal, Deputy Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Asia Group Berhad, stated that Thailand has always been one of Air Asia's most important markets. The group is proud to play a key role in continuously connecting travelers to Thailand. The collaboration with TAT reflects their shared commitment to make travel more accessible while supporting sustainable growth in Thailand's tourism industry.

During the first half of 2025, Air Asia served over one million passengers on Malaysia-Thailand routes, underscoring strong travel demand.

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National

Parliament to Convene Special Session on 4 Trillion Baht Loan Bill

Parliament will convene a special session to approve a 400 billion baht loan decree after the Constitutional Court cleared two tranches for Middle East relief and energy transition spending.

2d ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2025, Priset Vichasin, a Pheu Thai list MP, gave an interview at Thammasat University after the Constitutional Court ruled 9-0 that the first 200 billion baht tranche complies with the Constitution for Middle East crisis relief, and 7-2 that the second 200 billion baht for energy transition is constitutional. He emphasized that the Constitution explicitly requires Parliament to convene an extraordinary session promptly once the court issues its ruling.

Vichasin stated he had conveyed this position to the deputy prime minister on July 9, understanding that the government is currently discussing when to schedule the meeting. He believes the government agrees that an extraordinary session is necessary to consider the 400 billion baht loan decree.

Vichasin further suggested that if an extraordinary session is called, the Clean Air Act bill should be included on the agenda simultaneously. The Senate spent four consecutive days this week deliberating the bill before passing it through the Senate with substantial amendments. "Therefore, if we bring this matter back for parliamentary consideration alongside the loan bill, should the House disagree with the Senate's amendments, we can immediately establish a joint House-Senate committee to work during the recess period without waiting until late August," Vichasin said.

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National

Nestlé Invests 23 Billion Baht in Thai Coffee Plant

Nestlé will invest 23 billion baht to build a new NESCAFÉ factory in Samut Prakan province by 2028, producing instant coffee and ready-to-drink beverages while sourcing Thai-grown ingredients and creating over 520 jobs.

2d ago Khaosod

Nestlé will invest 23 billion baht to build a new NESCAFÉ manufacturing facility in Thailand, expanding its coffee production capacity and supporting local agriculture through the use of Thai-grown raw materials, the company announced on Wednesday.

The new factory, to be built in Samut Prakan province, will produce a wide range of NESCAFÉ products, including soluble coffee, coffee mixes and ready-to-drink beverages. It will also feature an on-site distribution center serving multiple product categories.

The facility will be equipped with advanced manufacturing technology, artificial intelligence, robotics and automated storage systems to improve production efficiency, product quality and environmental sustainability. Operations are expected to begin in the second half of 2028.

Nestlé said the project will create more than 520 jobs, including positions for technology specialists and other skilled workers.

Nikhil Chand, Chairman and CEO of Nestlé Indochina, said the investment reflects the company's confidence in Thailand, where it has operated for more than 130 years.

"The new coffee factory will produce NESCAFÉ products using innovation and a wide range of locally sourced ingredients and raw materials, including coffee beans, sugar and fresh milk from Thai farmers, further supporting local agriculture and economic development," he said.

Nestlé estimates the new factory will use around 4.3 billion baht worth of locally sourced ingredients and materials each year. The project has received investment promotion support from Thailand's Board of Investment in line with the country's Bio-Circular-Green (BCG) economy policy.

The company said it invested more than 27.8 billion baht in Thailand between 2018 and 2025 to expand manufacturing across several product categories, including ready-to-drink beverages and pet food.

Nestlé has sourced Robusta coffee beans from Thai farmers for more than 40 years and has expanded coffee cultivation to new areas, including Mae Sot district in Tak province, to help meet rising domestic demand.

NESCAFÉ, introduced in Thailand in 1973, remains the country's best-selling coffee brand, according to the company.

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Community

Thai Women's Futsal Coach, Player Launch World Cup Documentary

Thailand's women's futsal coach and World Cup player launched a seven-part documentary series July 10 showcasing young athletes training across diverse courts nationwide, from community spaces to temple grounds, illustrating how children's

2d ago Khaosod

Coach Thanathon ("Coach O") and Prapploy, a member of Thailand's historic women's futsal World Cup team, led the official launch of the seven-part documentary series "Grassroot Futsal: From Small Courts to Stardom" on July 10, 2025, at the Thai Sports Reporters Association hall within Hua Mark Athletic Stadium. The event was attended by prominent figures in Thai sports and futsal, including Dr. Usa Rungrote Kankarn, Manunyh Utthakawari, Kritsada Satjkul, Col. Vorawuth Thongseenam, and others.

Participants watched an introductory clip and heard behind-the-scenes stories from athletes and production staff about determination, dreams, and inspiration from children and youth in various communities. The documentary consists of seven episodes, each approximately 15-20 minutes long, featuring children and youth passionate about futsal training under diverse environmental constraints across seven courts nationwide, including crowded community courts at Flat Dindeang, courts beneath expressways, temple courts, mountain courts in Chiang Rai, mangrove courts in Bangkok, courts at schools for deaf students, and courts in Muslim communities.

Each episode follows a three-part structure: introducing local environments and community settings, discussing children's lifestyles, determination, and dreams, and culminating with a highlight segment called "Opening Dreams Courts." Professional futsal players and sports personnel, many of whom grew up on small courts, share their experiences and inspire youth. The documentary emphasizes that "children's dreams are never small regardless of court size," utilizing artificial intelligence technology to simulate and enhance the storytelling experience.

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National

Thailand Tests Homegrown Light Rail Prototype

Thailand's Rajamangala University of Technology has successfully begun real-track testing of a domestically designed light rail prototype called "Luk Isan Tram," advancing the country's efforts to develop homegrown rail technology and train

2d ago Khaosod

KHON KAEN — Rajamangala University of Technology Isan (RMUTI) has successfully begun real-track testing of a Thai-developed light rail transit (LRT) prototype, marking a significant step in the country's efforts to develop homegrown rail technology and train a new generation of railway engineers.

The prototype, known as the "Luk Isan Tram," has been undergoing continuous testing on a dedicated railway track at RMUTI's Khon Kaen Campus, attracting widespread public attention on social media.

On 10 July 2026, RMUTI President Associate Professor Dr. Kosit Sriphuthorn said the successful trials demonstrate Thailand's growing capability to design, develop and test rail technology using local expertise.

"What people see today is not just the testing of a prototype light rail vehicle," he said. "It reflects the potential of Thai engineers to design and develop practical railway technology. We are not only building a tram but also creating knowledge, developing skilled personnel and laying the foundation for Thailand's rail industry."

The testing programme covers the tram's performance on straight and curved tracks, braking systems, propulsion, wheel assemblies and other key components developed by the university's research team. Engineers are also evaluating locally developed rail fastening systems, rail pads and groove rail pads to ensure the prototype meets performance and safety requirements for future operation.

The university said the project incorporates international railway engineering standards, adapting global best practices in design, safety, control systems and maintenance to suit Thailand's operating conditions.

Beyond serving as a testing facility, the railway track at the Khon Kaen campus functions as a large-scale laboratory where students, lecturers and researchers gain hands-on experience in railway design, manufacturing, installation, testing, maintenance and system management. RMUTI said it has spent more than 15 years developing rail engineering programmes, research and industry partnerships.

The university hopes to establish its Khon Kaen campus as a regional centre for railway education, research and innovation, supporting workforce development and strengthening Thailand's long-term goal of building a self-reliant rail industry.

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Tourism

Moo Deng Turns Two as Zoo Celebrates Star Hippo

Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi celebrated pygmy hippo Moo Deng's second birthday with free admission for children and announced a new 10-rai "Hippo Village" facility. The viral star's fame has boosted zoo revenue nearly 77% to 319 million

2d ago Khaosod

Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Chonburi celebrated pygmy hippopotamus Moo Deng's second birthday on July 10 with a special event offering free admission for children. Zoo director Narongwit Chodchoy announced the opening of the new "Hippo Village" project, a 10-rai (16,000-square-metre) facility designed to enhance the living conditions of hippopotamuses and pygmy hippos, particularly Moo Deng and her family.

The zoo's financial performance has dramatically improved since Moo Deng's rise to global fame. Revenue jumped from 180 million baht in fiscal 2024 to 319 million baht in fiscal 2025, when Moo Deng's popularity peaked. With three months remaining in fiscal 2026, the zoo has already generated 160 million baht in revenue.

"Moo Deng and the other hippos in her family have become symbols of happiness and joy for many Thai people," Narongwit said. He encouraged visitors to explore other zoos operated by the Zoological Park Organization of Thailand, which also house hippopotamuses and pygmy hippos.

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