Lanta & News
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National

Higher Education Budget Slashed 7.5%, Lawmaker Urges Real Results

Thailand's Higher Education Ministry faces a 7.5% budget cut to 149.8 billion baht, prompting a Pheu Thai lawmaker to demand real results instead of ineffective international agreements and inflated achievements.

Higher Education Budget Slashed 7.5%, Lawmaker Urges Real Results
3h ago Khaosod

During a special parliamentary committee meeting on July 10, 2025, examining the fiscal year 2570 budget bill, Surachest Praweenwongwit, a Pheu Thai list MP, expressed concern over the Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Ministry's budget being cut by 7.5% compared to last year, dropping from 161.927 billion baht to 149.826 billion baht.

Surachest criticized the ministry's Deputy Secretary General for frequently traveling first class to sign ineffective memoranda of understanding that yield no real results, calling them mere "meet and greet" exercises that need improvement.

He emphasized the country's economic challenges and the need to better allocate limited resources. Surachest highlighted the importance of research and development funding, noting that while the country invests 144 billion baht in road construction, the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Fund (TSRIF) receives only 13.44 billion baht—equivalent to nationwide school and hospital budgets combined.

The ministry's budget faced a severe 32% cut, Surachest said, making it difficult to envision Thailand's future direction when resources flow primarily toward road construction that requires constant repairs.

He cited an example from the previous parliament where the transportation committee proposed research into traffic and transportation innovations, such as traffic light algorithms, which could generate real development and income. However, the ministry showed little initiative. Though the current minister agreed in principle, no concrete action has followed.

Surachest criticized the ministry for frequently promoting Traffee Fondue, a software complaint system, as a success story. While he acknowledged its merits, he called it a small-scale project and expressed frustration with "using trendy words to advertise exaggerated achievements," urging the ministry to deliver tangible, large-scale results that truly benefit the nation.

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Regional

Minister Warns Kanchanaburi Against Foreign Land Grabs

Education Minister Akkanat Kangkittinan has warned Kanchanaburi residents to guard against foreign land purchases that could threaten the province's tourism, environment, and local communities. He urged officials and residents to monitor de

Minister Warns Kanchanaburi Against Foreign Land Grabs
3h ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2025, Akkanat Kangkittinan, Education Minister and Pheu Thai Party MP for Kanchanaburi District 1, posted on Facebook urging residents to safeguard their province. Kanchanaburi, he noted, is one of Thailand's premier tourist destinations, renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, archaeology, and unique geographic significance—a heritage passed down from ancestors that must be preserved for future generations.

In recent weeks, reports have emerged of foreign investors purchasing large tracts of land across multiple areas of the province. Such transactions could lead to development projects or businesses with serious impacts on local livelihoods, environment, natural resources, and quality of life. Without careful and strict oversight, these decisions risk burdening the entire province for decades.

Akkanat urged all stakeholders—provincial officials, local administrative organizations, village headmen, and residents—to remain vigilant, monitor developments closely, and collectively protect Kanchanaburi's interests. He emphasized that leaders must stand with the people, as their positions are temporary while the land, forests, and rivers belong to future generations.

He warned against allowing short-term decisions to create long-term burdens, noting that once resources are destroyed or communities fundamentally altered, they cannot be recovered. Kanchanaburi's value lies not merely in tourism but in being a home to people, a land of history, culture, and nature that has sustained communities for generations.

While development is widely supported, it must be transparent, accountable, and responsive to public voices. It cannot trade irreplaceable resources for short-term profits benefiting only a few. Akkanat called on all Kanchanaburi residents—young and old, urban and rural—to care more deeply for their homeland, protecting its land, forests, rivers, history, and communities.

He encouraged residents to remain vigilant and not ignore potential threats to the common good. Using their rights within legal frameworks, they should verify information, voice opinions, and participate in decisions about their province's future. He reminded residents of a principle: "We borrow this land from our descendants, not inherit it from ancestors only to exhaust it."

Kanchanaburi's beauty tomorrow depends on decisions made today.

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Community

The Tom Thailand 2026 Kicks Off Workshop Series

THE TOM Thailand 2026 launched its inaugural workshop with singing and dance training led by expert instructors, with founder Leuk Bunnadha emphasizing the competition aims to help contestants discover potential and build confidence rather

The Tom Thailand 2026 Kicks Off Workshop Series
3h ago Khaosod

THE TOM Thailand 2026 officially launched its first workshop day with founder Leuk Bunnadha and director Knot Kritin closely supervising the lively activities. The atmosphere brimmed with smiles, laughter, and positive energy as all contestants wholeheartedly engaged in learning, skill development, and experience sharing.

Expert instructors led specialized classes in singing and stage dancing, extracting each contestant's full potential from day one. Directors Nan Wilailuk and Knot Kritin carefully monitored and oversaw the workshop.

Founder Leuk Bunnadha expressed genuine excitement about the initial success, stating: "The response has been far better than expected. What we want to see isn't just winners, but everyone growing, learning, and returning home with valuable experiences and increased confidence."

Leuk emphasized that THE TOM Thailand is not merely a competition for prizes, but a platform designed to help people discover hidden potential and courageously push beyond their limits toward new life opportunities.

Driven by the warm reception and overwhelming enthusiasm from the start, organizers announced a major surprise: THE TOM Thailand Season 2 is confirmed! Interested participants should prepare and watch for recruitment details.

The first season is just beginning with many challenging tests ahead. Join us in supporting and following the upcoming workshop sessions on Facebook at "Tom Thailand ทอม ไทยแลนด์".

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Community

Senior Advises Ning Patma to Let Actions Speak Louder Than Words

A senior Miss Grand official urges junior titleholder Ning Patma to resolve an ongoing controversy through actions rather than words, emphasizing that credibility comes from accomplishments, not statements.

Senior Advises Ning Patma to Let Actions Speak Louder Than Words
3h ago Khaosod

Ingfah Varahah, a senior member of the Miss Grand organization, hopes the ongoing controversy involving junior titleholder Ning Patma will be resolved constructively. She was asked about the situation after a blessing ceremony and the launch of the film "LADY BEE" at the Ganesha Shrine plaza in front of CentralWorld shopping mall.

"As a senior in the organization, I want this matter to end on a good note," Ingfah said diplomatically. "It's not an issue that should even be a topic of discussion in the first place. However, I don't know all the details and haven't spoken with her yet. I want to offer support to everyone involved. Ultimately, I hope everything resolves well. In the entertainment industry, peace of mind comes first. Ning still has a long career ahead of her as an artist, so I'm offering encouragement to all parties."

When asked for her advice on handling such situations in the entertainment field, Ingfah offered candid counsel: "It's difficult to put into words, but I believe actions speak louder. Sometimes we talk too much but accomplish too little, which undermines our credibility. Throughout my time here, I've believed we should speak less but strike harder—let people see through our work. No matter what happens, people will trust in who we are based on what they see."

Regarding concerns about the organization's image, Ingfah acknowledged: "Yes, I'm concerned. We want the organization's image to remain positive and avoid negative perceptions. But when something goes wrong, we address and improve it. People will see that themselves."

When asked if she has seen Ning since the news broke, Ingfah replied: "I haven't had the chance to meet her yet, but if I do, I'll offer my support."

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National

K-Pop Stars IU and Lee Jong-suk End Four-Year Romance

K-Pop stars IU and Lee Jong-suk have ended their four-year relationship, with both agencies confirming the split on July 10 while stating they will remain professional colleagues.

K-Pop Stars IU and Lee Jong-suk End Four-Year Romance
3h ago Khaosod

K-Pop Stars IU and Lee Jong-suk End Four-Year Romance, Remain Colleagues. Following their status as one of South Korea's most beloved celebrity couples adored by fans worldwide, IU and Lee Jong-suk have officially ended their relationship after dating for approximately four years. Both agencies confirmed the breakup on July 10. Multiple Korean news outlets reported that EDAM Entertainment (IU's agency) and ACE FACTORY (Lee Jong-suk's agency) confirmed the split while requesting understanding that this is a private matter and cannot disclose additional details. ACE FACTORY stated to Korean media: "Both have ended their relationship and will continue to be good colleagues." EDAM Entertainment similarly confirmed the news, noting that due to the personal nature of the matter, they cannot provide further details. IU and Lee Jong-suk have known each other since 2012 when they worked together as hosts of a music program. Their friendship later developed into a romantic relationship, which they publicly revealed in late 2022 following reports from Korean media, earning worldwide fan support. Throughout their relationship, rumors occasionally surfaced, but the couple maintained a private love life and rarely disclosed personal details to the public. The official confirmation from their agencies marks the formal end of a four-year romance between another beloved couple in South Korean entertainment.

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National

Twenty MPs Propose Cannabis Control Bill Limiting Medical Use

Twenty MPs introduced strict cannabis control legislation limiting use to medical, research, and scientific purposes with government permits, closing loopholes that have fueled Thailand's drug trafficking problem.

Twenty MPs Propose Cannabis Control Bill Limiting Medical Use
3h ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2025, lawmakers introduced strict cannabis control legislation in response to Thailand's drug trafficking problems and international pressure. Twenty MPs led by Deputy Police Chief Thawi Sodsung submitted the draft bill for Parliament's consideration on July 8.

The proposed legislation strictly controls cannabis and hemp use, permitting production, import, export, sale, or possession only for government, medical, patient treatment, research, and scientific purposes. All activities require permits. Any use outside these approved purposes would be classified as a narcotic drug offense under criminal drug laws.

Key protections include prohibition of sales to minors under 18 and near schools, dormitories, and entertainment venues. Advertising is forbidden without authorization. Cannabis consumption is permitted only for medical treatment under physician supervision or for approved research. Driving under the influence of cannabis is prohibited.

The bill establishes a Cannabis Committee chaired by the Public Health Minister to oversee policy and promotion of medical research. The legislation aligns Thailand with the 1961 Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs by restricting cannabis to medical and scientific uses. It closes legal loopholes with clear criminal penalties for misuse, including enhanced penalties for sales to minors. The law supports research and development of cannabis applications in modern medicine, traditional Thai medicine, and science with proper safety standards and oversight.

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National

NBTC Chair Qualification Ruling Delayed Another 30 Days

The NBTC selection committee delayed its ruling on Chairman Dr. Sorawun Bunbhaichaipruk's qualifications for another 30 days amid allegations he worked as a physician while receiving compensation after taking office, potentially breaching r

NBTC Chair Qualification Ruling Delayed Another 30 Days
3h ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2025, a selection committee convened for its fourth meeting to examine qualifications of NBTC Chairman Dr. Sorawun Bunbhaichaipruk. Allegations have emerged that he continued working as a physician treating both outpatient and inpatient cases while receiving hourly compensation from the date he took office until April 12, 2022, potentially violating Section 8(2) restrictions.

Chairman Kiatpongse Amattaykul, a Supreme Court judge heading the selection committee, stated after the meeting that no conclusion was reached today, but he personally believes a decisive ruling will come within the next 30 days. The committee has identified key issues for adjudication and will make a final determination at the next meeting, citing the complexity of multiple factors requiring careful consideration. Further details will be released through the Senate's public relations office.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Cambodia Deports 79 Thai Scammers; 5 Linked to 20 Cases

Cambodia deported 79 Thai nationals linked to scam networks, with five facing investigation for involvement in 20 criminal cases combined. Authorities screened all returnees at the Thai-Cambodian border on July 10 and are pursuing those wor

Cambodia Deports 79 Thai Scammers; 5 Linked to 20 Cases
3h ago Khaosod

Thai security agencies coordinated efforts to receive 79 Thai nationals returned by Cambodia at the Thai-Cambodian Friendship Bridge at the permanent Khlong Luek border checkpoint in Aranyaprathet district, Sa Kaeo province, on July 10, 2026. The repatriation followed Cambodia's crackdown on scammer networks and completion of legal proceedings. Initial screening identified five returnees with involvement in a combined 20 criminal cases, who were separated for intensive investigation. All remaining individuals underwent identity verification, document checks, and data recording before transfer to the Central Investigation Police for detailed background screening and assessment of possible links to criminal activity or transnational crime networks. The Sa Kaeo Employment Office examined documents from all returnees regarding their work in Cambodia. Those unable to produce evidence of proper legal authorization to work abroad face prosecution under the Employment and Worker Protection Act, with penalties of 5,000 baht per person. Officials stated this repatriation operation is part of heightened border area security measures to prevent illegal labor migration, combat human trafficking, and monitor transnational criminal networks exploiting border areas.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Young Thai Golfer Wins Second Championship in USA

Thai golfer Chelaine Pannarin Srichaopun won her second youth championship in weeks, claiming the Junior World Golf Championships in San Diego's Girls 7-8 division.

Young Thai Golfer Wins Second Championship in USA
3h ago Khaosod

Chelaine Pannarin Srichaopun, daughter of Paradorn "Superball" Srichaopun—a former world top-9 male tennis player—has secured back-to-back youth golf championships in the United States. At the Junior World Golf Championships 2026 in San Diego, California, Chelaine competed in the Girls 7-8 age division and delivered an outstanding performance. She posted a total score of 4-over par 178 to claim the championship, just weeks after winning the FCJ International Championship in late June.

The USWING MOJING Junior World Golf Championship is among the world's largest international youth golf tournaments, first held in 1968. It now attracts over 1,250 young golfers from 56 countries and 42 U.S. states annually, and has served as a launching pad for numerous world-class golfers throughout its history.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Celebrity Offers Support to Factory Worker Turned Singer

Thai celebrity Johnnie Manogram offered public support to Pui, a factory worker turned singer embroiled in a viral controversy, expressing empathy for the social backlash she faced and encouraging her to learn from mistakes.

Thai Celebrity Offers Support to Factory Worker Turned Singer
3h ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2569, Yutthapol Srisompong, known as Johnnie Manogram, shared a conversation with Pui, the young woman at the center of the "pink bed" viral controversy. In his message, Johnnie expressed empathy for her difficult situation, saying he had experienced similar storms in life and understood how overwhelming it must feel. He acknowledged that Pui likely felt confused and judged by society, caught between right and wrong, with both criticism and encouragement coming her way.

Johnnie reflected on how people sometimes face inevitable consequences they must repay in life, and while he couldn't judge the legality or social rightness of her actions, he felt compelled to offer guidance. He noted that when she was in emotional turmoil and unclear thinking, adults offered her opportunities which she accepted—leading to her decision to debut as an artist. This decision, he said, resulted in further social condemnation.

As someone with life experience and the strength to advise, Johnnie expressed compassion for this mother of four children, fearing that negative news might push her toward self-harm. He offered his support and guidance with pure intentions, understanding the difficulty of facing social media storms and drama.

Johnnie's message to Pui concluded with: "It doesn't matter how many times you make mistakes—what matters is recognizing them."

Meanwhile, Pui confirmed that she has now signed a music label contract. Although people warned her, she admitted feeling lost during this period with no one to consult. She acknowledged being under extreme stress from news coverage, the scandal, and drama attacking her from all directions.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Senior Buddhist Official Guides Committee on Right Conduct

A senior Buddhist official advised Thailand's newly appointed Parliamentary Religion, Arts and Culture Committee on resolving temple land disputes and funding issues while upholding Buddhist principles and local culture.

Senior Buddhist Official Guides Committee on Right Conduct
3h ago Khaosod

On July 10, 2569, at Rajabophit Temple in Bangkok, Somdet Phra Maha Veeravongs (Suchin Akkachino) received the newly appointed 27th Parliamentary Religion, Arts and Culture Committee, led by Thiwarun Angkinantana, a Bhumjaithai MP from Phetchburi. Committee chair Thiwarun outlined the committee's framework, including efforts to advance four major Buddhist-related bills: promoting lay support for Buddhism, establishing a Buddhist promotion council, creating a Thai Buddhist Bank, and promoting pilgrimage to Buddhist sites.

The committee also plans to address longstanding temple land disputes, including overlapping ownership claims with public land, land title registrations, and access to state and forest service property. Thiwarun noted the committee will tackle issues involving Pali schools' funding, monastic stipends, abandoned temple restoration, and transparent management of temple finances and donations.

Somdet Phra Maha Veeravongs advised the committee with the principle: "If everyone thinks well, speaks well, and acts well, there will be no problems." He emphasized that temple land disputes must be resolved according to both Buddhist discipline and civil law, cautioning against excessive expansion. He expressed concern over declining enrollment in Pali schools and stressed that paying monk salaries is inappropriate and violates Buddhist principles, as it would make monks resemble government employees.

He recommended that Pali school teacher support should take the form of subsidies based on educational performance, and monastic allowances should have clear standards to avoid long-term budget strain. Somdet Phra Maha Veeravongs underscored that temple development must occur alongside the preservation of local culture and community life, since temples form the spiritual, educational, and cultural foundation of Thai society. The committee accepted all guidance offered.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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