Thousands Flock to Hua Hin Temple Ceremony Honoring Revered Monk

More than 2,000 devotees and monks gathered at Hua Hin Temple on July 24 for a memorial ceremony honoring the founding abbot Luang Pu Nak Punya Nakho, who died 92 years ago and remains a revered spiritual teacher in the province.

24 Jul Khaosod

Hua Hin Temple was packed with activity as officials held the annual memorial service commemorating the 92nd anniversary of the death of Phrakhru Viriyathigaree, known as Luang Pu Nak Punya Nakho, the temple's founding abbot and a revered spiritual teacher in Hua Hin. The ceremony, held on July 24, 2025, at Hua Hin Temple in Hua Hin District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province, drew more than 2,000 devotees and monks from across the province, including 77 abbots and senior monks who chanted Buddhist scriptures alongside local government officials and community leaders.

The festive atmosphere filled the grounds as devotees set up nearly 300 merit-making stalls offering food, fruit, rice, cooking oil, eggs, and everyday supplies to the community. A notable highlight was the large number of people seeking auspicious lottery numbers connected to Luang Pu Nak's memory on this 92nd anniversary, adding a spiritual dimension to the daylong celebration.

Luang Pu Nak, born in 1857 in Lad Pho, Phetchaburi Province, became renowned for his Buddhist scholarship and meditation practice under several respected masters. After a brief period outside the monkhood to support his family, he returned and played a key role in building Wat Wang Phong in Pranburi District. Later, Hua Hin residents invited him to lead Wat Amparam, which was renamed Wat Hua Hin under his leadership. He served as abbot for 38 years, developing the temple into a spiritual center for the community until his death on July 24, 1934, at age 79. The temple has since had 10 successive abbots continuing his legacy.

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Police

Hospital Admits to Gathering in Neonatal ICU Before Infant's Death

Ang Thong Hospital admitted staff held a meal gathering in the neonatal ICU, and a five-day-old infant died from a bloodstream infection the following day; the hospital has launched an investigation into infection control procedures.

24 Jul Khaosod

Ang Thong Hospital has acknowledged that a meal gathering did take place in the neonatal intensive care unit following complaints from parents whose five-day-old newborn died after an overnight celebration. The hospital has launched a fact-finding investigation. The case involves a complaint from parents and Paveena Hongsukul, chairwoman of the Paveena Hongsukul Foundation for Children and Women, after their newborn died mysteriously just five days after birth. Staff had organized a meal gathering in the sterile neonatal ICU on the fifth floor of the hospital in Ang Thong Province, and the following day the infant died from a bloodstream infection, despite doctors initially assuring the parents the child was safe.

On July 24, 2026, Ang Thong Hospital issued a statement expressing deep condolences to the family of the deceased infant. The hospital acknowledged receiving complaints and concerns from relatives regarding the infant's death and the activities held within the neonatal ICU. Preliminary investigation confirmed that staff did organize a communal meal in an area adjacent to the patient care zone, separated only by a transparent plastic curtain. The hospital acknowledged that organizing meals in an area near patient care facilities is inappropriate and requires review of staff conduct policies.

In response, the hospital has immediately established a fact-finding committee, is reviewing treatment processes against standards, and is examining infection control procedures. The hospital has engaged relevant experts to evaluate the facts and has sent a team to express condolences and listen to the family's concerns. The hospital pledged to conduct a thorough investigation, review safety and infection control measures to ensure public confidence, and provide updates as the investigation progresses.

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National

GDH Launches New Content Universe, Eyes Global IP Expansion

Thai film company GDH launched its "GDH CIRCLES Feel Good" platform to unite filmmakers and audiences through a membership system while announcing multiple new films including a "50 First Dates" adaptation with Sony Pictures set for Septemb

24 Jul Khaosod

GDH launched a major offensive with its "GDH CIRCLES Feel Good" initiative, opening an entertainment hub for fans to experience GDH's entertainment universe. CEO Jina Osathasil welcomed guests and thanked partners supporting Thai cinema on the world stage, while Deputy CEO Priyavarn Phoovakul explained that GDH CIRCLES aims to unite filmmakers, partners, and audiences through a membership system on LINE OA.

Host Opol Panisara unveiled multiple new projects spanning films, animated series, educational content, games, IP ventures, and merchandise targeting diverse audiences.

Key film announcements included "HENRY's First Dates," a Thai adaptation of the romantic classic "50 First Dates" co-produced with Sony Pictures International Productions and directed by Mes Taradon, starring Nadech Kugimiya, Minnie Nichcha, Kik Kiartithai, Bell Pathumrach, and Vivienne Teepakon, releasing September 17. "Khun Yai Voranart," a horror-fantasy film reinterpreting the legendary tale "Thayat Asoon," directed by Dong Banjong and featuring Imm Davika, Baiboa Thitiya, Nok Sinjhai, and others, arrives in November.

Original GDH productions include "Female Friend," a romantic drama about a man who loves men but wavers over a woman, directed by Wann Wao-Wao Hongwiwat with Tong Banjong producing and Ice Sarinrat and Yaya Narilnya starring. "The Untitled Snooker Project," a thriller following a Thai snooker player's world stage ambitions, directed by Jack Watthanaphong with Biukking Putipong leading. "3 Daughters," a heartwarming family film directed by Potae Anusara, and "Return of True Love Next Door," a romantic comedy directed by Mook Piyakarn featuring Sunny Suwanmethanon, Paula Taylor, and Bo Thanakorn. The company also unveiled "Max and Joy Joy Market," an animated series.

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National

Thailand Braces for Oil Price Spike Amid Middle East Tensions

Thailand's deputy finance minister warned that Middle East tensions threatening Red Sea shipping could spike global oil prices, risking inflation and reduced consumer spending power across the energy-importing nation. The government is acce

24 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Finance Minister Santhiarn Saetiarthai warned that escalating Middle East tensions extending to the Red Sea remain a significant risk factor driving up global oil prices, which threatens energy costs, inflation, and consumer purchasing power. He emphasized that the government is closely monitoring the situation and prepared to consider further measures if needed, while accelerating the transition to clean energy.

Saetiarthai stated that the geopolitical crisis spreading from the Strait of Hormuz to the Red Sea underscores that the world is entering an era where uncertainty becomes the norm and geopolitical risks will persist continuously, inevitably impacting the global economy and energy-importing nations like Thailand. Though many previously expected the conflict to ease, the reality shows the conflict is likely to be prolonged and potentially intensify, forcing Thailand to prepare for further global oil price increases.

"Oil prices have not risen as severely as they could have, thanks to supporting factors like alternative shipping routes and strategic oil reserves being released," Saetiarthai explained. "However, stock levels are now declining, and the Red Sea tensions further restrict shipping capacity, keeping energy price risks at elevated levels."

If energy prices rise further, the economy will face cascading impacts starting with higher energy costs, followed by inflation, and ultimately reduced consumer purchasing power and higher business costs. The economy was beginning to stabilize with inflation moderating and purchasing power emerging as the key issue, but a new oil price shock could reignite inflation above expectations.

The government already has mitigation measures in place, particularly through emergency borrowing decrees including the "Thai Helping Thai Plus" initiative, which continues to provide a cushion for households and individuals. Officials indicated additional measures may be considered if the situation worsens.

Equally critical is accelerating the energy transition, which grows more urgent as energy challenges will persist for Thailand long-term, requiring expedited renewable energy adoption. The government aims simultaneously to promote energy transition and reduce burdens on households and businesses through expanded solar adoption and increased electric vehicle deployment with improved efficiency, helping lower costs while building energy security.

"Energy transition is not merely an environmental issue but an economic security measure that reduces costs for people and businesses," Saetiarthai said. "By promoting solar energy, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient technologies, we can reduce long-term oil dependence."

Accelerating the green economy transition also aligns with rising foreign direct investment flowing into Thailand, particularly in advanced electronics, sensors, and technologies that can integrate into clean energy and green economy supply chains. Developing domestic green economy supply chains will attract new investment and job creation.

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National

Thailand Pursues New Trade Deals to Counter US Tariffs

Thailand is implementing forced labor prevention measures and pursuing new trade agreements to counter US tariffs and reduce dependence on the American market amid volatile global trade conditions.

24 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Pokkrong Nila-premphan revealed that Thailand is implementing forced labor prevention measures aligned with international standards and OECD criteria, even as the United States applies tariffs. The government is urgently seeking new solutions through market diversification and enhanced negotiating power to navigate volatile global trade conditions.

On July 24, 2025, at Government House, Pokkrong disclosed that the US has invoked Section 301 tariffs, imposing a 12.5% import duty on more than 37 trading partners, including Thailand. He explained that the Thai government has undertaken various measures to address US concerns, particularly establishing guidelines for imports with forced labor risks, approved by the cabinet. "We already have measures in place, but they may not fully satisfy US authorities," Pokkrong said. "The government has implemented legal frameworks aligned with international standards and OECD requirements, reflecting our full commitment."

Pokkrong stressed that the current global situation has changed dramatically, making it difficult to forecast developments and directly affecting Thai exporters facing unprecedented conditions. Multilateral trade rules are weakening, prompting many countries to pursue regional negotiations to reduce tariffs and trade barriers instead. Thailand must prepare for this volatility.

Recognizing the trend toward power polarization among major country blocs, Thailand must accelerate free trade agreements with other partners to diversify its trade risks away from heavy reliance on the increasingly uncertain US market. Facing US tariffs demonstrates that international standards alone may not resolve trade disputes; Thailand must build negotiating power through regional cooperation and strengthen its domestic economy.

A cabinet meeting on June 23 approved the Labor Ministry's proposal to establish guidelines for imports with forced labor risks, supporting trade negotiation strategy and demonstrating Thailand's commitment to addressing forced labor throughout supply chains. The cabinet approved two key measures: acknowledging the results of Thailand's investigation, and approving the establishment of a committee to set standards for imports with forced labor risks, chaired by the Labor Minister. The committee will have authority to establish measures and enforcement guidelines, as well as propose watchlists and risk lists of imports with forced labor concerns to the cabinet—measures never before implemented in Thailand. These guidelines will align with international standards including the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, focusing on assessing forced labor risks throughout entire supply chains from raw materials to final delivery.

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Tourism

Khao Khiao Zoo Debuts Clouded Leopard to Public

Khao Khiao Open Zoo in Chonburi has opened a new exhibit featuring Nong Neung, a rare 8-year-old clouded leopard, to educate visitors about the endangered species and promote wildlife conservation.

24 Jul Khaosod

Khao Khiao Open Zoo in Chonburi province has unveiled a new exhibit featuring 'Nong Neung,' an 8-year-old female clouded leopard, allowing visitors to observe and learn about the rare wild cat's behavior up close within the zoo's botanical gardens. According to zoo director Narongwit Chadchoy, the clouded leopard is a protected species distinguished by cloud-like markings on its body, excellent tree-climbing abilities, and an important role as a predator in maintaining ecosystem balance across Asian forests. The exhibit aims to promote wildlife conservation education, raise awareness about biodiversity protection, and provide the public with meaningful encounters with endangered species in appropriate environments.

Khao Khiao Open Zoo is committed to developing a nature and wildlife learning center for people of all ages while conducting conservation, research, and breeding programs for rare animals to foster long-term environmental stewardship. The zoo invites visitors to participate in special activities on July 28, 2025, including free admission for children 12 and under or shorter than 135 centimeters, meetings with adorable wildlife mascots, Night Zoo viewing of nocturnal animals in a special atmosphere, and interactive educational experiences with various wild species. For more information, call 038-318444.

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Regional

Yasothon Road Project Stalled With Two Months Left

A 1,120-meter road project in Yasothon with less than two months remaining has yet to begin construction, prompting anti-corruption officials to warn the provincial administrative organization about timeline and quality risks.

24 Jul Khaosod

Officials from the Yasothon Provincial Anti-Corruption Office, led by director Prakop Mangkang, conducted a site inspection on July 24 to monitor budget spending by the Yasothon Provincial Administrative Organization. The reinforced concrete road project (Route YS.T. 1-0283) connects Ban Mak Mai Village in Khwang district to Ban Phon Mueang in Fa Huan district, Khwang, Yasothon. The project spans 1,120 meters with a width of 6 meters and thickness of 0.15 meters, covering approximately 6,720 square meters, with a budget of 4,989,900 baht. The original contract period runs from May 29 to September 25 (120 days), but no construction work has begun on site as of the inspection, leaving only about two months remaining. This timeline puts the project at significant risk of missing its deadline. The anti-corruption office has notified the provincial administrative organization about the contract management risks and concerns over maintaining construction quality standards given the compressed schedule. Officials have recommended a comprehensive work plan review and stricter staff oversight. The anti-corruption office will continue monitoring project progress until completion.

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Police

Two Men Arrested Smuggling 1.3 Million Baht Across Mekong

Military river patrol officers in Chiang Rai seized 1.3 million baht from a Thai and Lao national attempting to smuggle cash across the Mekong River in Chiang Saen District during a routine border inspection.

24 Jul Khaosod

On July 24, 2569, military river patrol officers in Chiang Rai arrested one Thai national and one Lao national on the evening of July 20 while conducting routine border inspections along the Mekong River in Chiang Saen District. During a search following suspicious behavior, authorities found 1,000 and 500 baht banknotes bundled with rubber bands, totaling approximately 1.3 million baht. The suspects were detained and the money seized as evidence. Authorities coordinated with Chiang Saen customs officials to investigate the origin of the cash.

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Police

Student Critically Injured After Falling Through Second-Floor Roof

A Grade 9 student in Nonthaburi Province suffered critical injuries including a fractured neck after falling through a deteriorated roof while retrieving earbuds during school break.

24 Jul Khaosod

Police Major Prasakorn Chaitheewiwongse, commander of Plai Bang Station in Nonthaburi Province, received a report from a secondary school in Bangkuwieng Subdistrict, Bangkruwai District, that a Grade 9 boy had fallen through a roof and struck the ground with critical injuries. Emergency responders quickly transported him to hospital.

Initial inspection of the scene showed the tile roof connecting the building sections had a large hole, with wooden debris and broken roof tiles scattered across the ground. The student was rushed to the ICU with serious injuries.

A school teacher explained the accident happened during midday break when the Grade 9 boy climbed onto the old tile roof to retrieve earbuds that had fallen while he was on the phone with his mother. The deteriorated roof, unable to support his weight, collapsed beneath him, and he fell headfirst onto wooden boards below, sustaining critical injuries and convulsions.

Rescue staff immediately took him to hospital ICU. Initial findings indicate a fractured neck. The school has now issued a safety warning to students about the dangers of leaving the building structures.

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National

Savings Bank Launches Auto-Savings Account for Small Traders

The Government Savings Bank launched the "Maha Heng" savings account, which automatically transfers daily merchant sales into dedicated savings at 0.50% annual interest, helping small business owners build financial reserves without tax lia

24 Jul Khaosod

The Government Savings Bank has launched the "Maha Heng" savings account, a 0.50% annual interest product designed to help small merchants automatically convert daily sales into savings through the bank's merchant app. According to Songpol Cheevapathanasorn, director of the Government Savings Bank, the initiative promotes financial discipline among small business operators who struggle to allocate funds when using a single payment account through the merchant app.

The innovative deposit account automatically transfers daily sales into a dedicated savings account, fostering daily savings habits and enabling business owners to easily set aside reserves for operating expenses such as rent, utilities, and electricity. The account offers a 0.50% annual interest rate with no tax liability, and both principal and interest are fully guaranteed by the government under law. This tool helps traders accumulate savings gradually to build long-term financial security.

The Maha Heng account is a savings deposit account for individuals using the Government Savings Bank merchant app to process payments. The system automatically transfers daily sales into the account in predetermined amounts, with one account per person. Deposits can start from as little as one baht per transaction with no maximum deposit limit. Account opening is available at all bank branches, with subsequent transactions conducted through the merchant app. The 0.50% interest rate is valid until December 31, 2025, after which rates will follow bank announcements. Interested parties can inquire at any Government Savings Bank branch nationwide, the official website at www.gsb.or.th, or GSB Contact Center at 1115.

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National

Bodybuilding Association Adviser Files for Thai Sports Authority Chief

A bodybuilding association adviser has filed as the third candidate to lead Thailand's Sports Authority, with the application window closing July 29, 2026.

24 Jul Khaosod

An adviser to the Thai Bodybuilding and Fitness Association has filed to compete for director-general of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), replacing current chief Dr. Kongsakda Yoddamani. He is the third candidate. The SAT is accepting applications for the position, with submissions available in person or by proxy at the Human Resources Department, 6th floor, SAT, phone 0-2186-7111 ext. 1217 or 7950, from July 15–29, 2026, during business hours (8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.), or by email to hrm@sat.or.th by 4:30 p.m. on July 29, 2026. As of July 24, 2026, Tanpawat Techphuvadon, adviser to the Thai Bodybuilding and Fitness Association, filed as the third candidate, following Siriches Pooltipayan, chairman of the Thai Mixed Martial Arts Association, and Dr. Surawit Loitanakulwat, also known as "Wit Kuan Eim" or "Siao Wit Kuan Eim Bang Rak," a local politician and Bang Rak community worker who filed earlier.

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