Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Four Bangkok Private Schools Seek Closure Over Economic Decline

Four Bangkok private schools have requested closure citing economic hardship and dropping birth rates, prompting the Education Ministry to survey whether more institutions plan to shut down.

Four Bangkok Private Schools Seek Closure Over Economic Decline
10 Aug Khaosod

Education Minister Prasert Chanthrawong announced after a Private Education Promotion Committee meeting that four private schools in Bangkok have filed for closure due to economic hardship and declining birth rates. The committee also discussed foreign teachers' requests to contribute to a private school teacher welfare fund, but opinions diverged because current regulations require contributors to maintain payments for at least 10 years to receive benefits, while most foreign teachers remain in Thailand for only 6-7 years. The committee directed relevant agencies to further study the matter and weigh the pros and cons before deciding on policy changes. Regarding school closures, the minister emphasized these are internal institutional matters beyond the Education Ministry's scope to intervene in, unless schools request help; however, he noted that if schools close and students transfer successfully to other schools, there should be minimal impact on students. The ministry will conduct a survey to determine whether additional private schools plan to seek closure.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Football Association Issues Lightning Safety Protocol

Thailand's Football Association has mandated lightning safety protocols for all professional matches, requiring play suspension when lightning strikes within 30 seconds and evacuation of players and spectators to designated shelter areas du

Thai Football Association Issues Lightning Safety Protocol
10 Aug Khaosod

Secretary-general Ekkapon Planavy of the Football Association of Thailand has notified all professional football league clubs, match controllers, and referee development directors to prioritize the safety of players, team staff, referees, officials, and spectators during thunderstorms and lightning. The Football Association has established protocols for all professional matches: (1) Match suspension and safety measures apply when lightning is observed and the time between seeing lightning and hearing thunder is 30 seconds or less. Referees and match officials must halt play temporarily and evacuate players, team staff, referees, and officials to sheltered or safe areas, while spectators move to designated refuge zones. (2) Continuous weather monitoring and resumption procedures require referees to work with match controllers and officials to assess weather and safety conditions before allowing play to resume. (3) If severe weather persists for more than 60 minutes total, match controllers and referees must follow competition regulations for force majeure situations to determine whether to resume or terminate the match. (4) Home clubs must prepare shelter areas for players, staff, and spectators, establish evacuation procedures, and ensure efficient communication systems. All clubs and personnel must strictly adhere to these guidelines with player safety, match officials, staff, and spectator safety as the highest priority.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

True 5G Connects Koh Phangan's Five Dimensions

True Corporation expanded 5G coverage across Koh Phangan to support tourism and remote work, launching the initiative at an August 2025 event as the island welcomes nearly 1.8 million annual visitors seeking digital connectivity alongside w

True 5G Connects Koh Phangan's Five Dimensions
10 Aug Khaosod

True 5G brings high-quality connectivity to Koh Phangan's five dimensions—from lifestyle centers and full moon experiences to forests and sea, extending to wellness destinations—at the 'Feel All the Feelings @Koh Phangan: Recharge Your Life' event on August 10, 2025. As urban residents grow exhausted by fast-paced city life, Koh Phangan has emerged as a preferred getaway destination. This August, Thong Sala Pier in Koh Phangan District, Surat Thani Province, will serve as the hub for the 'Feel All the Feelings @Koh Phangan: Recharge Your Life' campaign, themed 'The Island of Power Energized by the Moon,' inviting visitors to experience all that the island offers through its nature, people, art, and culture. True Corporation is expanding 5G coverage to serve Thai tourists, international visitors, and digital nomads choosing to stay long-term on the island.

At the event opening, Oliver Kittipong Veeratecha, head of brand and communications at True Corporation Public Company Limited, joined government officials including Paisit Thongjiam, District Chief of Koh Phangan, and Nuchachara Vanichcharoen, Director of Thailand's Tourism Authority office in Koh Samui, along with Naruemol Mai Sophia, president of the Koh Phangan Hotel and Tourism Association.

Veeratecha explained True's commitment: "Meaningful connectivity for True goes beyond signal strength—it connects people, communities, and economic opportunities. True supports this campaign because efficient connectivity is vital to island residents' daily lives, visitor experiences, and local business growth. With 5G networks and digital technology, we believe good technology must do more than be faster or more modern—it must help society and the environment grow together sustainably, transforming individual efforts across Koh Phangan into meaningful change for Thai waters."

5G coverage has become as essential as wind, sunlight, landscape, and sandy beaches, supporting remote work, online meetings, and high-speed internet access even far from cities. True has expanded 5G coverage along the entire route from Surat Thani Airport through the pier and across the ferry crossing to Koh Phangan, ensuring seamless connectivity from the moment travelers land until they settle into island life.

According to Thailand's Tourism Authority, Koh Phangan received over 1.77 million visitors in 2568 (2025): 518,685 Thai tourists (29%) and 1,251,479 foreign tourists (71%), generating total revenue exceeding 25.39 billion baht—3.64 billion baht (14%) from Thai visitors and 21.76 billion baht (86%) from international tourists, cementing Koh Phangan's status as a premier destination.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Police

Officials Linked to Local Exam Fraud Continue Working Normally

Officials suspected of cheating on civil service exams in Nakhon Ratchasima continue working at their posts while authorities await central government confirmation before taking action. The province has identified 152 individuals allegedly

Officials Linked to Local Exam Fraud Continue Working Normally
10 Aug Khaosod

Reporters visited Dan Khun Thod Subdistrict Municipality in Nakhon Ratchasima to investigate allegations of fraud in local civil service recruitment exams after discovering that some newly hired local government officials have names appearing on a list of suspected exam cheaters. Nakhon Ratchasima province has identified 152 individuals suspected of involvement. On-site verification confirmed that the officials in question continue working normally, though they declined to comment. Municipality superiors confirmed that staff members linked to the exam fraud allegations remain at their posts. Officials say they must await formal lists and orders from the central government before taking further action. The municipality noted that it does not have visibility into the original recruitment process, as it only receives candidates from above. However, if the municipality receives official confirmation of fraud involvement, it will proceed with appropriate measures and can promote the next candidate on the list to fill the position.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Nonthaburi Governor Tightens Security After Shooting Deaths

Nonthaburi Governor Chetsada Mosikaratana announced heightened security measures across the province following fatal shootings at a school and provincial offices on August 10. A by-election will be required to replace the slain PAO leader,

Nonthaburi Governor Tightens Security After Shooting Deaths
10 Aug Khaosod

At 4:00 p.m. on August 10, 2025, at Impact Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi Governor Chetsada Mosikaratana announced heightened security protocols following violent incidents in Nonthaburi Province, including shootings at Thepsirin School and the Provincial Administrative Organization headquarters. Following Prime Minister's directive, the governor confirmed that weapon control measures and checkpoint operations will be intensified throughout the province, including the provincial administration center.

When asked whether the death of the PAO leader will require a replacement election, Chetsada stated that a by-election will be necessary and must follow legal procedures, with the Election Commission handling the process. Regarding speculation that influential figures in the area were involved, Chetsada maintained that the case involves personal conflict rather than political power struggles, pending police investigation. The initial suspect reportedly acknowledged the dispute as a personal matter.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Kasetsart University Plants Rice to Honor Thai Agricultural Heritage

Kasetsart University planted 13.5 rai of Rice Berry—a nutrient-rich purple rice variety—in Nakhon Pathom on August 7 with over 5,000 participants, marking the 21st year of the Mother's Day ceremony honoring agricultural heritage and sustain

Kasetsart University Plants Rice to Honor Thai Agricultural Heritage
10 Aug Khaosod

Kasetsart University's Kamphaengphaet campus in Nakhon Pathom Province held its Mother's Day rice-planting ceremony on August 7, 2025, with Arthawut Phuengniam, Deputy Governor of Nakhon Pathom, as the official opener. The event attracted over 5,000 participants from government, private, and local administrative sectors, reflecting collective commitment to preserving Thai agricultural heritage while advancing sustainable farming knowledge.

The ceremony began with a tribute ritual and rice-blessing ceremony before participants planted Rice Berry rice—a dark purple variety with high antioxidant content developed by the university's Rice Science Center—across 13.5 rai of farmland. This represented the 21st consecutive year of the project, honoring the late Queen Sirikit and Mother's Day while integrating university agricultural research with traditional Thai farming wisdom in line with the philosophy of sufficiency economy and new theory farming.

Rice Berry was selected for its exceptional nutritional value and international recognition as a research application with genuine social and economic impact. The project integrated cooperation among the university, provincial and local authorities, educational institutions, private entities, and communities to preserve farming traditions, strengthen farmer livelihoods, and promote environmentally friendly agriculture. The university also emphasized research into rice varieties resilient to climate change, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from rice cultivation while enhancing food security in alignment with Thailand's transition toward a low-carbon society and sustainable development goals.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Women's Sepaktakraw Team Wins King's Cup Championship

Thailand's women's sepaktakraw team won the King's Cup Championship at the 39th ISTAF World Championship, defeating Vietnam 2-0 in the finals held at Fashion Island on August 10.

Thai Women's Sepaktakraw Team Wins King's Cup Championship
10 Aug Khaosod

Thailand's women's sepaktakraw team showcased strong form to defeat Vietnam and clinch the championship title at the 39th ISTAF World Sepaktakraw Championship 2026 King's Cup, held at Fashion Island on August 10.

In the first match of the women's team competition finals, Thai players Niphaphorn Salubpol (server), Masya Duangsri (setter), and Wilaiwanna Kotprohm (spiker) performed excellently, winning the opening set 15-7 for a 1-0 set advantage. In the second set, Vietnam responded well by introducing their spiker to counter-attack, pulling the score even at 14-14. However, Thailand scored three consecutive points to win 17-14, taking the first unit match 2-0 sets.

Moving to the second unit, Thailand fielded Wipada Jitphon (server), Paphannin Sihanok (setter), Somruedee Prupruk (striker), and Rachmee Thongsoet (backup striker). Thailand dominated the first set, winning 15-12 for a 1-0 lead. Although Vietnam attempted a comeback in the following set, their serves lacked precision, allowing Thailand to secure another 15-11 victory and take the match 2-0 sets.

With this result, Thailand defeated Vietnam 2-0 overall to win the women's team championship at the 39th ISTAF World Sepaktakraw Championship 2026 King's Cup.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Plans 200 Billion Baht Clean Energy Shift to Electric Buses and Taxis

Thailand will invest 200 billion baht to convert public transport buses, taxis, and vans to electric vehicles while removing older polluting vehicles from roads across all regions.

Thailand Plans 200 Billion Baht Clean Energy Shift to Electric Buses and Taxis
10 Aug Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nithithamonthon has announced progress on the clean energy transition plan funded by 200 billion baht from a 400 billion baht borrowing decree. Beyond supporting rooftop solar installations for the public, a portion will be used to convert public transport vehicles to electric vehicles. Ekniti has assigned Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Lawon Saengsan to oversee and guide the initiative, with the Finance Ministry prioritizing public transport vehicles first because they have high system usage and broad public impact.

The project aims to remove old vehicles that emit PM2.5 and carbon dioxide from circulation, helping reduce energy consumption and air pollution comprehensively. Old vehicles will undergo deregistration with details to be discussed with the Transport Ministry. The transition will cover vans, taxis, buses, and provincial buses across all regions.

For managing scrapped vehicles, discussions with the Industry Ministry are underway to identify qualified companies and public agencies capable of vehicle dismantling. Private sector discussions have shown that private firms already have standardized vehicle recycling systems and could take a lead role in dismantling and processing old vehicles. Biodiesel B20 vehicles are also under consideration to reduce agricultural sector impact and domestic fuel dependency. The government is also exploring a vehicle trade-in program for new vehicles.

The Finance Ministry and the Revenue Department are currently coordinating with the Industry Ministry to address remaining implementation issues. The existing EV 3.5 subsidy measure remains in place, offering approximately 50,000 baht per vehicle. However, the primary focus will be on converting public transport vehicles to electric before other categories, given their broad impact. Detailed budget allocation has not yet been determined.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

PM Orders Crackdown on Shooting Suspect Without Handcuffs

Prime Minister Anutin ordered a swift crackdown on Chalerm Riowraeng, a former Nonthaburi MP accused of shooting a PAO chairman, after the suspect appeared at a news conference without handcuffs hours after the incident. Anutin vowed strict

PM Orders Crackdown on Shooting Suspect Without Handcuffs
10 Aug Khaosod

At 3:55 p.m. on August 10, 2025, after presiding over the opening of the "Thai Artisan Lamplight OTOP" event at Impact Muang Thong Thani, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with officials including Nonthaburi Governor Chetsada Mosikaratana and Provincial Police Commander Dechrapi Kongdee to receive an update on the case of Chalerm Riowraeng, a former Nonthaburi MP accused of fatally shooting PAO Chairman Pol. Col. Thongchai Yenpraseurt.

Anutin stressed that he has instructed Nonthaburi officials to proceed with swift and decisive action, granting no assistance or accommodation of any kind regardless of the suspect's status, as his criminal identity is now clear. He stated that the government must enact or amend laws regarding firearm possession to eliminate all exceptions, noting that carrying firearms without valid permits is illegal under current Thai law, which no longer issues carry permits. All previous permits expired between late 2566 and early 2567 (2023-2024).

When asked about the suspect appearing casually at a news conference just hours after the shooting without being handcuffed, Anutin expressed alarm, saying such an image was unacceptable and that he had already informed Police Chief Kittirat Panpetch, who acknowledged the mistake and promised to pursue the case promptly. Anutin reaffirmed the need for urgent action and stricter enforcement of gun laws nationwide. When asked whether Bhumjaithai Party has confirmed the suspect's membership status, Anutin said the party's membership procedures are a separate democratic matter and do not concern the criminal investigation, though membership may be automatically revoked if legal procedures warrant it.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Police Seize One Ton of Crystal Meth Bound for Bangkok

Police arrested four drug traffickers and seized one ton of crystal methamphetamine hidden under cabbage in pickup trucks heading to Bangkok from northern Thailand on August 8.

Police Seize One Ton of Crystal Meth Bound for Bangkok
10 Aug Khaosod

The Metropolitan Police Bureau announced on August 10 the arrest of four suspects—Charuwanna (44), Chai (48), Jaroen (36), and Bunyong (41)—along with the seizure of crystal methamphetamine packed in 40 colorful sacks weighing a total of 1,000 kilograms. Two gray Isuzu D-Max pickup trucks with red-plate registrations from Phrae Province were also impounded during the operation.

According to Police Lieutenant General Sayam Boonserm, the investigation stemmed from earlier drug busts on March 8 and July 26, when authorities arrested traffickers from the same network. Through follow-up leads, investigators identified a major drug trafficking operation smuggling crystal meth from northern Thailand for distribution in Bangkok and its suburbs. The suspects were intercepted at 4 p.m. on August 8 at a gas station on the Nakhon Sawan–Chainat Road in Manao District, Chainat Province, while transporting the drugs into Bangkok. One vehicle was carrying cabbage as cover, with the methamphetamine hidden beneath the produce.

Investigators learned the network sourced drugs from Chiang Khao District, Phayao Province, through natural border routes. The smugglers were paid 2 million baht per shipment with a 90,000-baht deposit, with the promise of an additional 1 million baht upon successful delivery. All four suspects confessed during questioning. They face charges of drug trafficking in Category 1 (methamphetamine), possession with intent to distribute without authorization, commercial drug sales, and endangering national security and public safety. The case has been handed to the Narcotics Suppression Bureau for further prosecution.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Weather

Thailand Braces for Heavy Rain and Flooding Across Multiple Regions

Thailand's Meteorological Department warns of heavy rain and flooding across multiple regions through August 11 as a monsoon trough and southwest monsoon bring thunderstorms, with waves up to 3 meters in the Andaman Sea and upper Gulf.

Thailand Braces for Heavy Rain and Flooding Across Multiple Regions
10 Aug Khaosod

On August 10, 2569 (2026), the Thai Meteorological Department issued a 24-hour weather forecast predicting continued heavy rainfall across Thailand due to a monsoon trough passing over the northern region and northern Laos, combined with a moderately strong southwest monsoon affecting the Andaman Sea, Thailand, and the Gulf of Thailand. The public is urged to be vigilant against hazards from heavy and accumulated rainfall, which may cause sudden flooding and flash floods, especially in mountainous and low-lying areas near water channels. Wind and wave conditions in the northern Andaman Sea and upper Gulf of Thailand are moderately strong, with wave heights of 2-3 meters, exceeding 3 meters in thunderstorm areas. Mariners are advised to navigate cautiously and avoid thunderstorm zones, while small vessels in these areas should remain ashore.

Detailed regional forecasts (18:00 today to 18:00 tomorrow):

Northern Region: 70% thunderstorm coverage with heavy rain in some areas around Mae Hong Son, Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phayao, Nan, Uttaradit, Tak, Phitsanulok, and Phetchabun provinces. Low 23-27°C, high 31-34°C, southwest wind 10-20 km/h.

Northeastern Region: 70% thunderstorm coverage with heavy rain in some areas around Nong Khai, Bueng Kan, Udon Thani, Sakon Nakhon, Nakhon Phanom, Yasothon, Mukdahan, Amnat Charoen, Nakhon Ratchasima, Sisaket, and Ubon Ratchathani. Low 24-25°C, high 29-33°C, southwest wind 10-20 km/h.

Central Region: 40% thunderstorm coverage with heavy rain in some areas around Lopburi, Saraburi, and Kanchanaburi. Low 24-26°C, high 32-35°C, southwest wind 10-25 km/h.

Eastern Region: 70% thunderstorm coverage with heavy rain in some areas around Nakhon Nayok, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chachoengsao, Chanthaburi, and Trat. Low 24-27°C, high 31-33°C, southwest wind 20-40 km/h. Sea waves 2-3 meters, exceeding 3 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Southern Region (East Coast): 30% thunderstorm coverage, mainly around Phetchaburi, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Low 23-26°C, high 32-35°C, southwest wind 20-35 km/h. Sea waves 1-2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorm areas.

Southern Region (West Coast): 40% thunderstorm coverage with heavy rain in some areas around Ranong and Phang Nga. Low 24-27°C, high 31-34°C. From Phuket northward: southwest wind 20-40 km/h, waves 2-3 meters, exceeding 3 meters in thunderstorms. From Krabi southward: southwest wind 20-35 km/h, waves about 2 meters, exceeding 2 meters in thunderstorms.

Bangkok and Metropolitan Areas: 70% thunderstorm coverage with heavy rain in some areas. Low 26-27°C, high 32-33°C, southwest wind 10-25 km/h.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
Loading more…
Endless reading Scroll to read. When you reach the bottom, keep scrolling. A bar fills, and the next story slides in when it's full. ↑ ↓ or Space Or use the arrows at the bottom of the screen.