Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Police

Electrician Killed in NGV Pump Explosion in Chachoengsao

A 40-year-old electrician died when an explosion in an NGV pump station's electrical control room caused a concrete wall to collapse on him in Chachoengsao on July 20. The blast occurred as he inspected a reported burning smell in the equip

Electrician Killed in NGV Pump Explosion in Chachoengsao
20 Jul Khaosod

An electrician has died after an electrical control room explosion at an NGV pump station in Chachoengsao caused a concrete wall to collapse on him. Pump staff reported detecting a burning smell and called in the electrician for inspection when, without warning, a sudden explosion occurred and the building's wall collapsed across the road. Officers and emergency responders rushed to the scene after receiving the alert at 3:30 p.m. on July 20, finding the electrical control room severely damaged with brick fragments scattered throughout the area. Upon inspection near the third pillar, rescuers discovered 40-year-old Santi pinned under the collapsed wall, crushed under up to two stories of concrete. He was already deceased when removed from the rubble. Subsequent searches found no additional victims. Authorities have determined that pump staff first detected a burning smell and summoned the electrician to inspect the electrical control room, but the explosion occurred while he was performing his duties. The exact cause of the blast remains under investigation by relevant officials.

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National

Government Criticized Over Strict Poor Card Eligibility Rules

Over 9 million Thais were rejected for the 2025 poor card due to strict government criteria, but authorities have agreed to relax rules for old vehicles and students after widespread criticism of unfair eligibility requirements.

Government Criticized Over Strict Poor Card Eligibility Rules
20 Jul Khaosod

Images of poor and struggling villagers, elderly citizens, and those living hand-to-mouth have flooded appeals for the 2025 state welfare card, or poor card, in a heartbreaking display. Faces full of desperation reflect their pleas for the government to relax requirements and allow them to qualify. Applicants must submit documentation proving their poverty. The Anuthin government has introduced numerous strict criteria and complex details for this year's poor card eligibility, citing the need for thorough verification to ensure aid reaches the truly poor. However, concerns abound about limited government budgets and whether funds will be exhausted. Registration results show 18.82 million applicants, with 9.51 million passing the criteria and over 9 million rejected—effectively cutting eligibility in half. Compared to the previous 13 million poor card holders, substantial numbers have lost their status, sparking widespread criticism of overly rigid rules, such as immediately disqualifying anyone listed as owning a car or motorcycle, despite many being over 20 years old or non-functional, or affecting struggling students. The government's verification process proved insufficiently detailed, lacked consistency, and failed to coordinate across relevant agencies, resulting in flawed implementation. Many citizens were unfairly excluded. Recently, however, the government agreed to review its decision, extending the appeal deadline to September 20, 2025, and will adjust rules to exempt vehicles over 20 years old and motorcycles over 15 years old, as well as restore benefits for all students in and out of the formal system. The hope is that the government will now plug these gaps and remedy the previous poor execution.

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National

Thailand Accelerates Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 Development

Thailand is accelerating construction of Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 to boost cargo capacity and support economic growth in the Eastern Economic Corridor, with offshore work nearly complete and the first berth expected to open by 2574.

Thailand Accelerates Laem Chabang Port Phase 3 Development
20 Jul Khaosod

On July 20, Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Pipat Ratchakitprakarn, accompanied by Transport Ministry officials, visited the Port Authority of Thailand (PAT) to implement policies aimed at developing Thai ports as a gateway for economic opportunity. The government is pursuing the "MOT New Chapter" strategy to modernize transport systems while reducing public expenses, improving safety, stimulating the economy, promoting clean energy, and building competitive infrastructure for the global stage.

Water transport and port systems are crucial mechanisms for linking all transport modes and reducing Thailand's logistics costs. Currently, PAT controls over 85% of the country's deep-water port market share, and Laem Chabang Port ranks 18th globally for container traffic in 2025. In fiscal year 2568, PAT reported total revenue exceeding 16.756 billion baht with net profit over 7.096 billion baht.

Pipat announced plans to upgrade Bangkok Port, a key economic hub in central Bangkok, to become a world-class gateway port offering benefits across economics, tourism, international conferences, culture, and entertainment. For Laem Chabang Port Phase 3, the government is accelerating construction to handle larger cargo vessels, expand shipping capacity, and support growth in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC). As of July 10, 2569, offshore construction has advanced 98.39% while dock facilities and road infrastructure are 22.84% complete, targeting the F1 berth opening by 2574.

Pipat also directed PAT to work with the State Railway of Thailand to develop a Single Rail Transfer Operator (SRTO) center, seamlessly linking rail, road, and water transport systems to reduce national logistics costs and promote modal shift from trucks to rail and water transport.

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National

Actress Om Denies False Rumors, Plans Legal Action

Actress Om Kornnapass Sethiratanaphong has denied false rumors circulating online and announced legal action through her employer Channel 3, which has appointed a law firm to prosecute those spreading defamatory content.

Actress Om Denies False Rumors, Plans Legal Action
20 Jul Khaosod

Actress Om Kornnapass Sethiratanaphong released an official statement dismissing false and distorted rumors spreading online that have affected her personal life, work, and family. The actress confirmed her long-standing respect and connection to China, Chinese culture, and Chinese friends, while denying all personal rumors. Channel 3 television has stepped in to handle the legal matter, appointing a law firm to collect evidence and prepare to prosecute those who spread false information or defamatory messages without reservation.

In her statement, Om thanked supporters and explained that she has received an outpouring of false data and malicious comments on multiple online platforms in recent times. She stressed that this distorted content has disrupted her life, work, and caused significant hardship to her and her family. While she accepts different viewpoints and factual criticism as a public figure, Om firmly rejected fabricated information, edited or manipulated context designed to mislead, and intentionally malicious posts that distort her position.

Om reaffirmed her family's enduring bond with China, Chinese culture, and Chinese friends, emphasizing their sincere respect and appreciation. Throughout her entertainment career, she has upheld professional ethics and fulfilled her duties responsibly. She also confirmed that rumors and personal information circulating recently are entirely false.

Disturbed by these events, Om consulted Thai TV Color Channel 3 (her employer), which has now provided support and appointed a law office to collect evidence of content violating her rights and causing damage across various online platforms. The station will pursue legal action against those responsible to the fullest extent if they continue spreading false or defamatory information damaging her reputation.

Om appealed to all parties and platform administrators to stop sharing unverified information and work together to build a responsible and respectful online community. She concluded by expressing heartfelt gratitude for the encouragement, trust, and support that has helped her through this challenging period.

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Police

Health Officials Investigate Hospital Over Teacher's Husband Death

A teacher's husband died from blocked coronary arteries at a Ratchaburi private hospital in July after doctors allegedly dismissed chest pain as panic disorder and refused an EKG; health officials are now investigating the facility's treatm

Health Officials Investigate Hospital Over Teacher's Husband Death
20 Jul Khaosod

A teacher has sought justice after her husband died suddenly on July 16, 2025, at a private hospital in Ban Pong District, Ratchaburi. She alleges that doctors diagnosed him with panic disorder and refused to perform an EKG despite her family's request and willingness to pay, with one doctor allegedly making discouraging remarks. The man went into shock that evening and died in front of his family. An autopsy determined he died from two blocked coronary arteries.

On July 20, 2025, officials from the 5th Health Service Support Center and the Ratchaburi Provincial Public Health Office spent nearly three hours at the hospital gathering evidence and reviewing service standards. Dr. Chakarit Piyapramote, head of the medical department, told media that specific details about treatment and staff conduct cannot be disclosed while the investigation is ongoing. He confirmed the doctor involved remains available and has expressed regret over the incident.

Regarding allegations about the doctor's words in the examination room, Dr. Chakarit noted the incident occurred privately and cannot be verified without the investigation committee's findings. When asked if the doctor had been interviewed, he said discussions had taken place but details cannot be shared during the investigation process.

The hospital maintains it has treatment standards and quality control systems, and acknowledged that mistakes can occur in any hospital. Both the hospital and doctor are prepared to discuss compensation with the family, though the family was not ready to meet when the hospital visited on Saturday. Regarding the patient's chest pain and left arm radiation—signs of a medical emergency—Dr. Chakarit explained the hospital has a chest pain pathway screening system that can admit patients to the emergency room, but he could not explain why this case was handled differently due to the ongoing investigation.

Dr. Chakarit denied plans to sue complainants or members of the public posting opinions, and welcomed all feedback and suggestions. He noted the hospital has served Ban Pong and surrounding areas for over 75 years with a non-profit mission. When asked about part-time doctors over 60 years old on staff, Dr. Chakarit declined to provide that information.

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National

Thailand and China Sign Agricultural Pacts to Boost Seafood Exports

Thailand and China signed agricultural agreements to boost seafood exports and water resource management, with new quarantine standards expected to add over 500 million baht in annual trade value.

Thailand and China Sign Agricultural Pacts to Boost Seafood Exports
20 Jul Khaosod

Agriculture Minister Suriya Juangroongruangkit has signed two significant cooperation agreements between Thailand and China during Prime Minister Anuthín Charnvírakul's official visit to Beijing. The deals focus on elevating seafood trade standards and water resource management to reinforce food security and enhance agricultural competitiveness for both countries.

The first agreement is a protocol on quarantine and health standards for aquatic animals intended for consumption and export from Thailand to China, signed with Chinese Customs Chief Sun Meiyun and witnessed by Prime Minister Anuthín and Chinese Premier Lí Qiáng. The protocol results from consultations between Thailand's Department of Fisheries and China's customs authority to establish mutual inspection, quarantine, and sanitary frameworks, while strengthening traceability systems and trade oversight.

Thailand currently exports approximately 1,850 million baht worth of live aquatic products to China annually, and the cooperation is expected to add over 500 million baht in trade value. Additionally, a second memorandum on rural water management, hydropower, and irrigation was signed with Chinese Water Resources Minister Lí Guóyìng to promote practical cooperation in water resource management, flood and drought mitigation, knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and expert exchanges to build climate resilience.

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National

Ton Sorn Wins Thailand's No. 1 Brand Award for Second Year

Ton Sorn grass jelly has won Thailand's No. 1 Brand award for the second consecutive year, crediting its success to premium quality and strong consumer trust built over 64 years.

Ton Sorn Wins Thailand's No. 1 Brand Award for Second Year
20 Jul Khaosod

Sitthinan Co., Ltd., the manufacturer and distributor of Ton Sorn grass jelly, has received the Marketeer No.1 Brand Thailand 2026 award for the second consecutive year on July 16, 2026, reaffirming consumer trust and confidence built over 64 years. The brand's success key lies in its distinctive quality made from 100% premium mung beans, producing tender grass jelly suitable for diverse dishes that appeal to both Thai and foreign consumers. Combined with accessible, practical marketing content that connects to everyday life, the brand has earned lasting consumer loyalty.

Pannara Panjawinin, managing director of Sitthinan Co., Ltd., revealed that Ton Sorn's core strategy is maintaining outstanding, unique quality at every stage—from raw materials through production to delivery—to provide consumers with "confidence in every meal." The second consecutive Marketeer award proves the brand continues earning consumer trust while driving the company to meet modern consumer demands for quality, convenience, and peace of mind simultaneously.

Facing rapid shifts in consumer behavior and intense market competition, Ton Sorn has adapted both its product range and communication strategy. The brand launched "Ton Sorn Easy," a semi-prepared grass jelly line targeting younger consumers seeking convenience without sacrificing quality—a pivotal growth moment expanding the brand from a "staple in Thai kitchens" to one answering contemporary lifestyle needs. The company's vision extends beyond manufacturing to becoming a brand that makes cooking easy, delicious, and joyful daily, while maintaining quality, authenticity, and delivering consistent consumer value.

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National

Social Security Board Election Registration Closes Tonight

Registration closes tonight for Thailand's 2025 Social Security Board election, with nearly 1.6 million voters and 195 candidates already registered to help shape how the social security fund is managed.

Social Security Board Election Registration Closes Tonight
20 Jul Khaosod

The Social Security Office (SSO) released the election timeline for the 2025 Social Security Board on July 20, 2025, inviting all insured persons and employers to exercise their voting rights to help determine how the social security fund will be managed. Today is the final day for registration, with voters able to register through the SSO website (www.sso.go.th), the SSO Plus app, or at any SSO office nationwide. As of 3 p.m. on July 20, there are 195 candidates total—85 representing employers and 110 representing insured persons—while 1,593,540 people have registered to vote, including 15,174 employers and 1,578,366 insured persons.

When examined by province, the top 10 regions with the most registered voters are Bangkok with 447,168, Chonburi with 104,606, Samut Prakan with 98,568, Nonthaburi with 70,308, Pathum Thani with 68,436, Rayong with 61,915, Chiang Mai with 52,605, Ayutthaya with 34,508, Nakhon Ratchasima with 33,391, and Samut Sakhon with 28,675 respectively.

This election is significant because the social security fund belongs to all insured persons, and voting determines who will serve on the board to decide how the fund is managed, where investments are made, and how benefits should develop. The board members elected will participate in directing fund management and developing benefits for long-term protection of insured persons' interests. The election timeline includes candidate registration through July 15, voting registration through July 20, candidate qualification verification through July 22, announcement of eligible voters on August 10, announcement of candidates on August 19, additional candidate registration from August 20-24, announcement of additional candidates on September 7, and voting day on September 27, 2025.

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National

Thai Bank Launches Online House Fair With 0% Interest

Thailand's Government Housing Bank is running an online home fair July 20-24 with over 3,000 properties nationwide, offering zero-percent financing for up to two years and discounts up to 50 percent.

Thai Bank Launches Online House Fair With 0% Interest
20 Jul Khaosod

The Government Housing Bank (GHB) is stimulating the housing market in the second half of 2025 with its annual online single-family home fair running from July 20 to July 24, 2025, through the GHB ALL HOME application. The event showcases over 3,000 quality properties with prime locations across Thailand, including a two-story home in Bangkok's Nong Chok district priced at 2.89 million baht and a property in Ubon Ratchathani province listed at 5.225 million baht. Special offers include price reductions of up to 50 percent, zero-percent financing for up to two years, and 1,000-baht cash vouchers for buyers who sign contracts by July 31, 2025. Interested buyers can browse properties via the GHB ALL HOME application or www.ghbhomecenter.com, and contact the GHB Call Center at 0-2645-9000 extension 5 for more information.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Community

Big Mountain Festival Attendance Drops 50%; Four Major Issues Identified

Big Mountain Festival's attendance fell 50% last year due to poor facilities and conditions, with organizer Ped Yutthana committing to fix inadequate restrooms, dust problems, and other longstanding issues.

Big Mountain Festival Attendance Drops 50%; Four Major Issues Identified
20 Jul Khaosod

Organizer Ped Yutthana Bun-om has responded to growing concerns about Big Mountain Festival's declining attendance, which dropped significantly last year. He explained that although GMM Show now produces numerous events annually, requiring him to manage multiple projects rather than focus intensely on one, feedback from attendees has accumulated steadily about persistent problems—specifically inadequate restrooms, heavy dust at parking areas, and other issues. Ped acknowledged that while these complaints came gradually, they accumulated to the point where action became necessary.

The organizer emphasized that attendance, though reduced from previous years, remains substantial compared to other Thai music festivals, but has fallen below historical levels. Recognizing that simply ignoring the feedback or using old problem-solving methods would not suffice, Ped stated he needed to take the situation more seriously. He committed publicly to festival attendees and fans, saying: "I have heard what you are saying, and I acknowledge these are real problems. As the person responsible for Big Mountain and other GMM Show events, I must be clear: I accept there are real issues, and I have heard your concerns."

Ped emphasized his approach is not merely to listen but to actively resolve problems. Working with his team, they aim to make Big Mountain the best music festival possible and will address each issue collaboratively.

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Tourism

Thai Brand Sabina Expands Beyond Lingerie Into Activewear

Thai lingerie brand Sabina is expanding into activewear with designs tailored for Asian women's bodies, offering breathable, versatile pieces suitable for both fitness and everyday wear.

Thai Brand Sabina Expands Beyond Lingerie Into Activewear
20 Jul Khaosod

Sabina, a favorite lingerie brand among Thai women, has built a long-standing reputation for quality, designs that understand Asian women's bodies, and continuous product innovation. Now the brand is stepping beyond its lingerie leadership to fully enter the activewear market, addressing the lifestyle needs of younger generations increasingly focused on health and fitness.

Sabina's expansion into activewear is more than just adding new products—it's thoughtful design for real-world use, whether for exercise, yoga, or everyday wear. Key features include stretchy, breathable fabrics that support natural movement, modern design wearable both in and outside the gym, and color tones and patterns aligned with current fashion trends. This makes Sabina Activewear more than just "workout clothes"—it's an everyday look for modern urban consumers.

One reason Sabina remains strong in the market is its deep understanding of consumers, particularly Asian women seeking comfort while maintaining confidence in their appearance. The brand also prioritizes fabric innovation and sewing technology, ensuring consistent quality across collections.

For those seeking activewear that works in daily life, Sabina offers an appealing choice, combining function, fashion, and comfort in one piece—suitable for both fitness enthusiasts and minimalists who prefer clean, stylish looks. Sabina's growth from a lingerie brand to activewear reflects how Thai brands are genuinely adapting to the modern fashion market. For anyone looking for comfortable, practical items that maintain personal style, Sabina is a brand worth considering.

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