Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

State Welfare Card 2025: Usage Conditions, What You Can Buy, and Money Deposit Timeline

Thailand's 2025 State Welfare Card program will provide 1,000 baht monthly to 13.18 million low-income cardholders from June through September, covering consumer goods, utilities, and transportation costs as relief from the energy crisis.

4h ago Khaosod

Details on what the 2025 State Welfare Card can be used for, when money will be deposited, and what hours benefits can be accessed each day. On May 20, 2025, Winit Wisetsuwannaphoomi, Director of the Office of Fiscal Economics and acting spokesman for the Finance Ministry, announced that on May 19 the Cabinet approved the "Thailand Helping Thailand Plus" program to reduce the impact of the energy crisis affecting all sectors of the population and business operators suddenly, severely, with high uncertainty and prolonged trends. This will be implemented through additional funding under the 2025 Decree authorizing the Finance Ministry to borrow for solving energy crisis impacts and creating the country's energy transition.

Without swift economic relief and support measures, economic activity will contract, businesses will close, and unemployment will rise rapidly. The "Thailand Helping Thailand Plus" program will focus on: 1) assisting and mitigating impacts on vulnerable groups through the State Welfare Card mechanism, and 2) reducing public expenses and supporting purchasing power, as well as helping small merchants continue their livelihoods to maintain national economic security as urgently necessary.

The Cabinet approved budget allocations to the Grassroots Welfare and Social Economy Fund to support and assist low-income earners registered in the State Welfare Registration Program throughout fiscal year 2025. Benefits include consumer goods purchases, cooking gas discounts, public transportation allowances, and electricity and water utilities, plus additional welfare premiums for persons with disabilities.

Approximately 13.18 million cardholders will receive an additional 700 baht per person per month beyond the existing 300 baht per person per month, totaling 1,000 baht monthly for four months from June to September 2025. Unused balances do not roll over to the next month.

The Finance Ministry will expedite new registration rounds to screen applicants according to specified criteria, while coordinating with the Interior Ministry to identify marginalized groups. The program summary shows 13.18 million people will receive 1,000 baht per person per month from June 1 to September 30, 2025, totaling up to 4,000 baht. Benefits include consumer goods purchases, 80-baht cooking gas discounts over three months, and 750-baht public transportation allowances.

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National

PTT Global Chemical Denies Any Involvement in Fuel Hoarding or Supply Delays

PTT Global Chemical denies hoarding fuel or causing supply delays, saying it operates only as a refinery selling products directly from the gate without retail stations or transportation infrastructure.

5h ago Khaosod

PTT Global Chemical (GC) has issued a statement denying any involvement in fuel hoarding or supply delays, reaffirming its commitment to good governance principles. The statement comes in response to government announcements regarding an investigation into severe fuel shortages at gas stations during the recent Middle East crisis. GC clarifies that as a fuel trader under Category 7 regulations, it operates solely as a refinery selling finished petroleum products directly from the refinery gate, without any retail gas stations or supply chain transportation infrastructure. The company asserts it has fully cooperated with government authorities through inspections, data provision, and strict compliance with all policies, laws, and regulations. During the Middle East crisis, GC continued production and product distribution to customers to help maintain the country's energy stability and security. The company emphasizes that its refinery operations maintain standard industry control systems, audit procedures, and inventory records for petroleum inputs and outputs, with all refining and delivery operations conducted according to complete sales and delivery plans and disclosed to relevant government agencies. GC also confirms that all fuel transportation documents comply with applicable laws. The company reiterates its commitment to good governance principles and readiness to coordinate with and provide additional information to government authorities to maintain public confidence.

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Community

Mor Chang Reveals Bad Fortunes Turn Lucky, Full Fortune and Prosperity, Troubled Relationships End, Cautious Signs for Heavy Spending

Astrologer Mor Chang predicts Jupiter's movement in 2026 will bring auspicious changes for all zodiac signs, with May 31st marking a turning point bringing career advancement, financial improvement, and relationship transformations.

5h ago Khaosod

Renowned astrologer Mor Chang Thossaporn reveals that Jupiter's movement in 2569 (2026) is a major auspicious event with double blessings occurring on May 31st, affecting the fate of all 12 zodiac signs as follows:

Aries: Career advancement and reputation, but beware of backstabbers. Money comes easily but goes to repairs and home renovations. Single people should prepare to end their single status.

Taurus: Excellent work prospects, especially for brokers and diplomats. New social circles open, with chances for real position upgrades. Good financial luck to anticipate.

Gemini: Work stands out remarkably with unexpected luck, but watch for theft. Background work or frequent travel favors this sign. Romance has charm that attracts older individuals.

Cancer: Fate transforms from bad to good. Career advancement with hopes for a new position. Finances and fortune are abundant. Troubled relationships will end, and the right person will arrive.

Leo: Cannot rely on others; best to go solo. Beware of investment losses or upsetting influential people. Money still flows freely. Romance may bloom unexpectedly.

Virgo: Finances recover and blocked situations clear. Foreign or distant work will succeed. Love runs smoothly; single people may connect with someone close.

Libra: Work becomes heavier but creates stability. Money comes from skills, not luck. Avoid lottery. Troubled relationships will heal.

Scorpio: Stands out in partnerships, promotions, and contracts. Early spending is heavy but improves after May 31st. Love is delicate; watch your words.

Sagittarius: Destiny brightens but becomes clearer next month (June). System changes or team switches may be chaotic. Watch for cash flow issues.

Capricorn: Life gains momentum. Work has obstacles but promotion is certain after June. Trust your financial instincts. Single people will meet their soulmate during the planet shift.

Aquarius: Work changes direction requiring new learning. Early struggles but certain growth. New income opportunities emerge. Romance receives guidance.

Pisces: Rapid growth. Business expansion goes well but requires caution. Finances are stable and old problems clear. Regarding love, don't rush.

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Weather

Meteorological Department Issues Alert No. 15: Southwest Monsoon Intensifying with Heavy Rainfall

Thailand's Meteorological Department warns of heavy to very heavy rainfall across 56 provinces through May 21 as the southwest monsoon intensifies, with risks of flash flooding in hillside and low-lying areas and rough seas in the Andaman S

6h ago Khaosod

On May 20, 2569, the Thai Meteorological Department issued alert No. 15 regarding heavy to very heavy rainfall across Thailand and strong winds in the Andaman Sea (affecting through May 21). The alert indicates that during May 20-21, rainfall will increase significantly with heavy to very heavy rain expected mainly on the western side of the country, including the northern, upper northeastern, central, eastern, and western southern regions due to an intensifying southwest monsoon covering the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam's coast.

Residents are urged to be cautious of heavy rainfall and accumulated water, which may cause flash flooding and flash floods, especially in hillside areas near water channels and low-lying areas. Approximately 56 provinces are expected to experience heavy rainfall.

Sea conditions: The Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand face moderately strong waves. The upper Andaman (from Phuket northward) has waves 2-3 meters high, with thunderstorm areas exceeding 3 meters. The lower Andaman (from Krabi southward) and upper Gulf of Thailand have waves approximately 2 meters high, with thunderstorm areas exceeding 2 meters.

Fishermen are advised to exercise caution and avoid sailing in thunderstorm areas. Small boats in the upper Andaman should remain ashore during this period.

The public is encouraged to monitor updates from the Meteorological Department via their website (http://www.tmd.go.th) or by calling 0-2399-4012-13 and 1182 (24-hour service). The next alert will be issued on May 20 at 5:00 PM.

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National

Fed Interest Rate Concerns Weigh on Gold Price Index in May, Expected to Average 69,800 – 74,000 Baht

Gold prices are expected to average 69,800-74,000 baht per baht weight in May as Federal Reserve interest rate concerns and Middle East tensions weigh on investor sentiment.

6h ago Khaosod

The Gold Research Center has announced that the gold price confidence index for May 2569 has dropped compared to April 2569, falling from 76.80 points to 75.56 points—a decline of 1.24 points or 1.62%. Key factors affecting gold prices this month include concerns over potential interest rate increases by the Federal Reserve, the monetary policy stance of the new Federal Reserve chairman, and Middle East tensions between the U.S.-Israel coalition and Iran.

In a survey of 319 respondents regarding gold purchasing intentions for May 2569, 150 respondents (47%) expressed uncertainty about buying gold, while 104 respondents (33%) expected to purchase gold and 65 respondents (20%) anticipated not buying. Among major gold traders and futures brokers surveyed, 5 respondents (42%) believe gold prices will decline in May, 4 respondents (33%) expect prices to remain similar to April levels, and 3 respondents (25%) anticipate price increases.

Major gold traders project the following price ranges for May 2569: gold spot prices are expected to average $4,220-4,797 per ounce, domestic 96.5% purity gold bars should trade around 69,800-74,000 baht per baht weight, and the Thai baht is anticipated to range between 31.96-33.14 per U.S. dollar.

For gold investment strategy in May 2569, prices are expected to fluctuate in a consolidation pattern following recent gains. While safe-haven demand remains strong amid economic uncertainty, investors should adopt a gradual profit-taking strategy when prices rally and wait for pullbacks to re-enter. If gold maintains support above key technical levels, medium-term upside potential remains, though investors must closely monitor global economic data and geopolitical developments as these will significantly influence gold's direction.

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Weather

Today's Weather: Continuous Rain and Heavy Downpours Expected in 56 Provinces

Heavy rain and thunderstorms will affect 56 Thai provinces over the next 24 hours, with the Northeast and Andaman coast facing the heaviest downpours and risk of flash floods and landslides. Authorities warn residents in low-lying and hills

6h ago Khaosod

May 20, 2025 — The Thai Meteorological Department forecasts continuous rainfall across Thailand over the next 24 hours, with heavy to very heavy rain in parts of the western Andaman coast, Northeast, and Eastern regions. Heavy rainfall is also expected in the North, Central Thailand, and Bangkok with surrounding areas. The weather is driven by a strong southwest monsoon covering the northern Andaman Sea and Thailand, combined with a low-pressure system over northern Vietnam. Authorities warn residents of dangers from intense rainfall and accumulated water that could trigger flash floods and landslides, particularly in hillside areas, near waterways, and low-lying zones. The public is also advised to maintain health during this weather transition.

Sea conditions in the northern Andaman are moderately rough with waves 2-3 meters high, exceeding 3 meters during thunderstorms. The lower Andaman and northern Gulf of Thailand have approximately 2-meter waves, exceeding 2 meters during storms. Fishermen are urged to exercise caution and avoid thunderstorm areas. Small boats in the northern Andaman should remain ashore.

Regional Forecast (06:00 today to 06:00 tomorrow):

North: 60% thunderstorms with heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Nan, Tak, Sukhothai, Uttaradit, Kamphaeng Phet, Phichit, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Temperatures: 24-26°C low, 33-38°C high. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Northeast: 70% thunderstorms with heavy to very heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Loei, Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Nong Bua Lamphu, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Chaiyaphum, Khon Kaen, Kalasin, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Roi Et, Yasothon, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Temperatures: 23-25°C low, 30-34°C high. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

Central: 60% thunderstorms with heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Nakhon Sawan, Uthai Thani, Chainat, Lopburi, Saraburi, Singburi, Ang Thong, Ayutthaya, Suphan Buri, Nakhon Pathom, Kanchanaburi, and Ratchaburi. Temperatures: 24-26°C low, 31-35°C high. Southwest winds 10-20 km/h.

East: 60% thunderstorms with heavy to very heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chachoengsao, Chonburi, Rayong, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Temperatures: 25-28°C low, 31-34°C high. Southwest winds 20-35 km/h. Sea waves approximately 2 meters, exceeding 2 meters during thunderstorms.

South (Eastern Coast): 60% thunderstorms with heavy rain in some areas, particularly in Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla. Temperatures: 23-26°C low, 30-35°C high. From Surat Thani northward: Southwest winds 20-35 km/h, sea waves approximately 2 meters offshore and during thunderstorms exceeding 2 meters. From Nakhon Si Thammarat southward: Southwest winds 15-35 km/h, sea waves 1-2 meters near shore, approximately 2 meters offshore during rain.

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Breaking

Pep and Iraola Congratulate Arteta After Arsenal Wins Premier League Title

Arsenal won their first Premier League title in 22 years, ending a drought since 2003-04, with Manchester City and Bournemouth managers congratulating head coach Mikel Arteta on the achievement.

7h ago Khaosod

Spanish managers Pep Guardiola of Manchester City and Andoni Iraola of Bournemouth have congratulated their fellow countryman Miguel Arteta, Arsenal's head coach, on winning the 2025-26 English Premier League title.

In a Premier League match on May 19, Bournemouth drew 1-1 at home with Manchester City. Bournemouth took the lead through Elie Junior Cuppy in the 39th minute, but Manchester City equalized through Erling Haaland in the 90+5th minute. Both teams finished with 37 matches played. Manchester City ended with 78 points and will finish as runners-up, trailing Arsenal by 4 points with only one match remaining. Bournemouth collected 56 points and finished sixth.

Arsenal has ended their 22-year wait for the English league championship, with their last title coming in the 2003-04 season. This is Arsenal's 14th league title.

Guardiola said: "I want to congratulate Miguel and Arsenal. They have done an outstanding job. We were very close as well. On behalf of Manchester City, I want to extend our congratulations to Arsenal. They deserve this."

Guardiola also addressed his future, following reports he may leave the club. "I have one more year on my contract and I will speak with the club president at the end of the season. But I am very happy to be at this club. It is a fantastic club."

Iraola commented: "I have to congratulate Miguel and Arsenal. I am very happy for them. Throughout this season they have been in contention for the title, and finally they have received what they deserve."

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Officials Reveal Train Driver Passed Through Accident Site 58 Times Over 3 Years; Mechanic Only Had 14 Days Experience

A freight train collided with a bus at an Bangkok intersection on May 16, killing 8 and injuring over 30; investigators found the experienced driver had traversed the route 58 times, but the mechanic had only 14 days of employment experienc

7h ago Khaosod

On May 19, 2025, the Metropolitan Police Bureau 1 (MPB1) released updates on the investigation into the freight train collision involving Bangkok Mass Transit System (BMTS) bus line 206 at the Asok/Kamphaeng Phet 7 intersection near Makkasan Airport Rail Link Station on May 16, which resulted in 8 deaths and over 30 injuries. The incident occurred at 3:20 PM.

Interrogation of four railway experts revealed that the train driver had operated through the Asok interchange station junction 58 times between 2023-2026, accumulating over 3 years of experience. The mechanic, however, had only been employed for 14 days and was boarding this train for the second time. A supervisor from Bang Su locomotive depot confirmed the driver's extensive experience with this route. Technical management personnel corroborated these findings. Operations staff confirmed the procedures followed by the driver and crossing attendant, though specific details cannot be disclosed due to case sensitivity. Signal maintenance officers confirmed all equipment, including railway crossing gates and signaling devices, were functioning normally.

Of the 30 injured passengers, 14 have been discharged from hospitals, 2 were interviewed previously, and 9 provided statements today. Three foreign nationals remain under follow-up. Sixteen remain hospitalized, with 10 having provided additional statements and 4 in ICU unable to be interviewed. One additional patient has yet to be interviewed. Among the 8 fatalities, 6 have been identified while 2 remain under identification verification.

Investigators collected CCTV footage from 5 key locations: Asok-Dindaeng, Phetchphloen, Rama IX, Narayana, and Research Center intersections to analyze driving behavior and staff performance. Tomorrow (May 20), investigators will conduct a scene reconstruction at 3:00 PM. CCTV footage from Rama IX and Asok-Dindaeng intersections confirms the driver and mechanic remained at the locomotive during passage through both checkpoints.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Tottenham Face Relegation Battle Down to Final Day After Chelsea Defeat

Chelsea defeated Tottenham 2-1 at Stamford Bridge to keep their European hopes alive, while Spurs dropped to 17th place and face a desperate final-day fight to avoid relegation.

8h ago Khaosod

Chelsea kept their hopes alive for a UEFA Europa League spot in the final Premier League match after narrowly defeating Tottenham Hotspur at home, while their London rivals face their own battle against the drop. In the English Premier League fixture on May 19, 2025, Chelsea hosted Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge. In the first half, Spurs came close in the 11th minute when Pedro Porro's cross found Maths Tel, who struck the post. Chelsea took the lead in the 18th minute when Enzo Fernandez received the ball from Pedro Neto and fired home from 30 yards with a perfectly placed shot into the corner. In the second half, on the 67th minute, Pedro Neto's cross from the right found Fernandez, who laid it off to André Santos to fire in Chelsea's second goal. In the 74th minute, Porro cut the ball back from the right for Pape Matar Sarr to find Richarlison unmarked, who scored to make it 2-1, but Chelsea held on for the victory. After 37 matches played equally, Chelsea collected 52 points and climbed to 8th place, securing a UEFA Conference League spot while maintaining hope for Europa League qualification on the final day. Tottenham sit 17th with 38 points and must battle relegation until the final match, holding just a 2-point buffer over 18th-place West Ham United. Spurs will face Everton at home while West Ham play Leeds United in the final round.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Declan Rice Posts After Arsenal Clinch Premier League Title This Season

Arsenal clinched their first Premier League title in 22 years after Manchester City drew with Bournemouth, with midfielder Declan Rice celebrating the achievement on Instagram alongside teammates.

8h ago Khaosod

Declan Rice, Arsenal's midfield captain, posted a photo with a caption after the Gunners officially clinched the Premier League title this season. Arsenal has secured their first league championship in 22 years after Manchester City drew 1-1 with Bournemouth on May 19. With 82 points from 37 matches, Arsenal leads Manchester City by 4 points with only one match left to play.

Following the title win, Rice posted a photo on Instagram with teammates William Saliba, Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, and Eberechi Eze, captioning it: "I told you all... it's done." This comes after Arsenal's recent defeat to Manchester City had cast doubt on their title chances, when Rice had previously rallied his teammates with the message "It's not over."

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

After 22 Years of Waiting! Arsenal Fans Celebrate as Their Team Wins Premier League 2025-26 Championship

Arsenal secured their first Premier League title in 22 years after Manchester City's draw with Bournemouth mathematically eliminated the defending champions on May 19, clinching the club's 14th league crown under manager Miguel Arteta.

8h ago Khaosod

Arsenal fans of the Gunners celebrated jubilantly after their beloved team guaranteed the 2025-26 English Premier League championship, the club's 14th league title overall. Arsenal needed to wait for the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Manchester City on May 19, heading into that fixture with a five-point lead over City, who still had two games remaining. Manchester City could only draw 1-1 with Bournemouth, reducing the gap to four points, but with only one game left in the season, they were mathematically eliminated from contention. Arsenal ended their 22-year wait for the English top-flight championship, with their last title coming in the 2003-04 season. This is the club's fourth trophy under manager Miguel Arteta, following one FA Cup and two Community Shield titles.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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