Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
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.

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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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National

Trade and Customs Seize 1.3 Billion Baht in Counterfeit Origin Goods

Thai authorities seized 8.8 million counterfeit goods falsely labeled as Thai-origin at Laem Chabang Port, valued at 1.377 billion baht over the past fiscal year, as the government tightens enforcement to combat trade fraud and protect the

Trade and Customs Seize 1.3 Billion Baht in Counterfeit Origin Goods
20 Jul Khaosod

Thailand's Ministry of Commerce (MOC) and Customs Department announced the joint seizure of illegal goods falsely claiming Thai origin at Laem Chabang Port on Monday, July 20, 2025, with total economic damage of 1.377 billion baht during fiscal year 2569 (October 2024–July 2025). Arada Fueangthong, MOC Director-General, stated that the agencies work continuously to prevent fraud, combat false origin claims, and intercept customs evasion (AD/AC measures) to build confidence in Thailand's manufacturing industry while applying trade protections and remedies effectively. The seized contraband included 8.8 million pieces falsely labeled as Thai-origin, valued at 442.64 million baht, comprising cigarettes, plastic products, electrical appliances, household goods, and knife equipment.

The MOC and Customs Department coordinate closely through shared data integration, including risk profiles of businesses suspected of falsing origin claims and exporters certified by the MOC, supplemented by field inspections of businesses evading trade measures. To strengthen enforcement and meet international commitments, the MOC issued new regulations effective June 1, 2569, expanding monitored goods from 49 to 67 categories (294 tariff codes) and reducing origin test validity from two years to one year to ensure exporters use current cost data. Additionally, the MOC plans to introduce artificial intelligence (AI) technology in 2570 to detect irregularities in applications, improve inter-agency data linkage, and conduct retroactive origin verification checks.

In fiscal 2569 (October 2024–June 2025), the MOC screened 986 origin certificate requests for exports to the United States and European Union through the ROVERs Plus paperless system, confirming 90 percent as legitimately Thai-origin goods.

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National

Yoppa Yogurt Eyes Nine Branches This Year as Franchises Exceed 50

Yoppa Yogurt, the affordable synbiotic yogurt brand, has sold over 50 franchises and plans nine company-operated locations by year-end as it expands nationwide from its popular Siam Square flagship store.

Yoppa Yogurt Eyes Nine Branches This Year as Franchises Exceed 50
20 Jul Khaosod

Yoppa Yogurt is accelerating its expansion to capitalize on strong consumer demand following the opening of its first location in the Siam area, which draws long queues daily. The company has now sold over 50 franchises nationwide and is planning to open new branches both under corporate ownership and through franchise partners. The brand is offering franchises at a starting investment of 180,000 baht and plans to reach nine company-operated locations by year's end.

Ms. Narilunyaa Kulmongkhalphet, CEO of Dek Pung Pong Co., Ltd., explained that after identifying opportunities in the food and beverage sector, the company developed Yoppa Yogurt with synbiotic yogurt as its main selling point, priced accessibly from 49 baht. Since opening at Siam Square Soi 3, the brand has attracted continuous consumer interest across all demographics, with customers queuing daily. The company continuously develops new flavors including matcha strawberry, guava, ube mochi, ube boba, and Kyoho grape yogurt, with plans to launch yogurt ice cream.

"Yoppa Yogurt offers easy-to-enjoy flavors with regular new releases," the CEO said. "In the future, customers will be able to adjust the yogurt's tartness themselves. Our main customer base ranges from high school students and university students to working professionals and Siam area tourists, all attracted by our affordable pricing and repeat-purchase frequency."

The delivery channel has also performed well, prompting the company to open franchise opportunities. Currently operating locations include Union Mall, Central Pinklao Market Place, Suvarnabhumi, Pracha Uthit, Robinson Lifestyle Suphanburi, and The Mall Lifestyle Store Bang Khae. The company targets completing nine company-operated branches by year's end, with locations 2-4 expected to open in the third quarter. New franchise outlets are planned for Bangkok, suburban areas, and major provinces including Bangkapi, Samut Prakan, Nonthaburi, Chachoengsao, Rayong, Phuket, Hat Yai, Phitsanulok, Nakhon Ratchasima, and Chiang Mai.

The company employs word-of-mouth marketing combined with online content strategy to build brand awareness. CEO branding through social media content creation has generated millions of views, supporting both in-store queues and sustained delivery channel growth.

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National

BTS Takeover of Green, Gold Lines Heads to Board

Thailand's Department of Railways is accelerating plans to return Bangkok's Green and Gold BTS lines to state control, with a policy committee meeting scheduled this or next week to finalize the asset transfer. Some line segments can transf

BTS Takeover of Green, Gold Lines Heads to Board
20 Jul Khaosod

The Department of Railways is fast-tracking plans to transfer Bangkok's Green and Gold BTS lines back under the control of the Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS). Director-General Pichet Kundatharmmarak revealed that a policy committee meeting will be held this or next week to expedite the transfer of assets, liabilities, and related contract amendments.

Some lines can be transferred immediately, including the Gold Line's Krung Thonburi–Khlong San section, the Green Line's Sukhumvit extensions (Onnucha–Bearing and Mochit–Saphan Mai–Khukkot sections), the Bearing–Samut Prakan extension, and the Silom Line's Taksin–Bang Wa section. These transfers qualify as inter-agency accounting transfers and can proceed without delay.

The main Green and Gold line segments—Sukhumvit Line's Mochit–Onnucha section and Silom Line's National Stadium–Taksin Bridge section—currently operate under concession agreements expiring in 2029. The state is exploring ways to change the concession operator from the private sector to BTS, though if contract transition proves impossible, authorities will wait until the concessions expire.

Pichet confirmed that the nationwide 17–45 baht flat fare policy will proceed smoothly even while some lines remain under existing concessions, as the government will subsidize fare differences directly to riders. Regarding EMV card payment compatibility concerns on the Green Line, officials urged the public to gradually switch from Rabbit cards to EMV cards, which serve as a unified payment platform enabling real-time revenue clearing between operators and seamless cross-line travel verification. EMV systems will process fare refunds within three days of travel.

The Department of Railways is coordinating with Bangkok and operators to install additional EMV readers on the Green Line, starting with mobile card readers at disabled passenger doors to accommodate those claiming the 17–45 baht subsidy. Operators are also studying how to upgrade Rabbit cards to EMV standards in the future. The 17–45 baht subsidy will initially be limited to Thai nationals, as EMV systems can verify identity through linked credit or debit cards, with a goal of full multi-operator fare integration by early 2027.

Foreign visitors will continue paying standard fares. Officials expect public uptake of EMV similar to the Purple and Red lines, which saw increased ridership after flat-fare implementation. Additionally, private sector representatives proposed expediting connections to the Eastern Airport Rail Link during a meeting with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul.

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Police

Missing 85-Year-Old Found Dead in Chao Phraya River After Three Days

An 85-year-old woman missing for three days was found dead in the Chao Phraya River near Ayutthaya, entangled in water hyacinth plants with no signs of injury.

Missing 85-Year-Old Found Dead in Chao Phraya River After Three Days
20 Jul Khaosod

At 3:30 p.m. on July 20, 2026, police from Bang Thai Station in Ayutthaya, hospital medical staff, and officers from the Thai Gratitude Foundation examined a female body that had been deceased for approximately three days, floating among water hyacinth plants. The body was believed to be that of Pratin, or "Grandma Thaen," age 85.

After discovering the body, officials coordinated with village headwoman Phonphat Chamnaisinn and relatives of the deceased to confirm her identity through the clothes she wore on the day of the incident. A preliminary examination found 360 baht in cash on the body and no signs of injury or assault.

Port Authority officials revealed that while conducting water hyacinth removal operations near an old sand pit, boat crew members noticed flies swarming around vegetation and investigated, discovering the deceased woman's body face-down entangled in the plants about 30 kilometers downstream from where she fell. The crew immediately alerted police and rescue units.

Police and a medical examiner initially examined the body before sending it for a detailed autopsy to determine the cause of death through forensic procedures. The body will later be released to relatives for funeral rites according to tradition.

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