Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Hudson Confident Thailand Squad Can Cover Every Position

Thailand coach Anthony Hudson expressed confidence in his squad's versatility ahead of their August 4 match against the Philippines, praising players' ability to cover every position and their development throughout the tournament.

Hudson Confident Thailand Squad Can Cover Every Position
3 Aug Khaosod

Thailand national football team head coach Anthony Hudson praised his players' ability to cover every position on the field, saying he has been impressed by their development since the tournament began. Speaking at a press conference on August 3 in Capas, Philippines, ahead of the third Group B match against the Philippines on August 4, Hudson said the Philippines are a dangerous side with an experienced coach, and that past results between the teams are not relevant to tomorrow's game.

"I have studied the Philippine players individually and their tactical approach is quite complex," Hudson said. "They can create problems for us, but we are in good shape and determined to show strong form again. I am very satisfied that our players can substitute for each other in every position from day one until now. This has impressed me greatly. Both senior athletes and young talents have shown excellent development. I am confident in the squad and will continue to develop it further. What is important now is to take it one game at a time."

Thailand goalkeeper Kampol Pathomsualul said the team is well prepared despite the different weather conditions in the Philippines. "The weather here is different from Thailand, but that is not an excuse for us. We have trained well and everyone is taking care of their physical condition. Those who get the chance to play will try to build on what we have done in our previous matches," Pathomsualul said. He thanked his teammates and the coaching staff for helping Thailand keep clean sheets and win both previous matches through disciplined defending and possession football. "We respect all opponents including the Philippines. The tournament is still long, and we will do our best in each match," he added.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Bangkok Hospital Becomes Asia-Pacific Medical Robot Hub

Bangkok Hospital partners with D-Wise Technologies to establish Asia-Pacific's first Medical Robot Hub, leveraging over 1,000 robotic-assisted surgeries to advance surgical standards and surgeon training across the region.

Bangkok Hospital Becomes Asia-Pacific Medical Robot Hub
3 Aug Khaosod

Bangkok Hospital's main headquarters is advancing toward establishing a Medical Robot Hub, a center for medical robotics innovation at the Asia-Pacific level, by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with D-Wise Technologies (Thailand) Limited. This partnership aims to build on existing knowledge and develop standards for robotic-assisted surgery (Robotic Surgery) following the hospital's experience treating patients with da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgery technology in over 1,000 cases. The collaboration seeks to enhance the capabilities of Thai surgeons through education, training, and experience sharing to elevate Thailand's surgical standards to international levels and achieve better treatment outcomes for patients.

Dr. Akkhakitti Surakan, Deputy Director of Bangkok Hospital, stated that the hospital prioritizes medical technology alongside staff development. The experience from over 1,000 robotic-assisted surgery cases has generated valuable knowledge and specialized skill development for the surgical team, helping to raise the standards of surgical care. This collaboration represents an important step in building a robotic surgery learning system to provide patients with more effective and safer treatment.

Under the one-year MOU, both parties will collaborate on several key projects including establishing an In-house Robotic Training Center for Robotic Surgery within the hospital, developing surgeons and experts through training with International and In-house Proctorship Programs, establishing patient care standards, developing infrastructure and surgical simulation systems, and organizing the BDMS Robotic Surgery Annual Meeting 2026 on August 10, 2026, under the theme "1,000 Cases Celebration & Scientific Session" to provide a forum for knowledge exchange among domestic and international experts.

Dr. Chanin Pandi, Director of the Surgery Center at Bangkok Hospital and an experienced laparoscopic and robotic surgeon, revealed that the hospital currently uses da Vinci Xi Robotic Surgery for treating complex patients in over 1,000 cases, covering abdominal, lung, thoracic, gynecological, and urological procedures. Over the past three years, Bangkok Hospital's main headquarters has performed 547 abdominal surgeries, 237 lung surgeries, 131 gynecological surgeries, and 92 urological procedures (kidney and prostate) as of June 2026. This technology enables precise surgical targeting, reduces bleeding, minimizes tissue damage, lowers infection risk, and allows patients to recover faster with shorter hospital stays and quicker return to daily activities. The hospital emphasizes multidisciplinary care that combines medical expertise with robotic medical technology to provide personalized care from diagnosis through surgery, rehabilitation, and continuous follow-up.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Garmin Acquires TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic

Garmin has acquired training platforms TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic to expand its fitness ecosystem, capitalizing on 25% fitness revenue growth in Q2 2024 driven by strong demand for wearables and training technology.

Garmin Acquires TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic
3 Aug Khaosod

Garmin has announced the acquisition of leading training platforms TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic to strengthen its fitness ecosystem and enhance personalized training experiences for athletes and coaches across endurance sports, strength training, and performance development.

The acquisition coincides with continued momentum in Garmin's fitness business segment. In Q2 2024, the company achieved record total revenue of approximately $2.02 billion, up 11% year-over-year, while fitness business revenue grew 25% to $757 million, with growth across all product categories. Strong demand for wearables including Forerunner, Vívoactive, and Venu devices drove the expansion.

Missy Yang, Garmin Thailand Country Manager, stated: "Garmin's global fitness business growth of 25% in Q2 reflects sustained demand for health and training technology. This trend is clearly evident in Thailand as well, with Garmin achieving 30% operational growth in Q2 and 36% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year, primarily driven by fitness products, especially running and wellness categories. Integrating TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic into Garmin's ecosystem represents another significant step in advancing fitness capabilities by combining training tools, performance data, insights, and coaching services to deliver a more comprehensive experience for users at all levels, from beginners to serious athletes."

For Thailand specifically, continued growth in health and fitness interest is evident, with consumers prioritizing technology that enhances personal health understanding and enables data-driven training improvements. The integration of both organizations' strengths will expand options and elevate the user experience to better address diverse consumer needs.

Andy Stephens, Chief Executive Officer of Peaksware Holdings (parent company of TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic), said: "We are delighted to partner with Garmin to advance our mission of supporting athletes and coaches through science-based training approaches. Over more than a decade, TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic have developed solutions making coaching and performance insights widely accessible, supporting millions of athletes worldwide in developing their potential and achieving their goals through structured, data-driven training. Together, we will further advance the future of athletic training and development."

Garmin develops products with the philosophy "Engineered on the inside for life on the outside," designing technology for full living in the real world. Garmin products have transformed aviation, automotive, fitness, marine, and outdoor markets, enabling people to fully enjoy their passions while committed to daily innovation and pushing boundaries.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai TV Show Challenges Chefs to Cook With Less Seasoning

A new Thai TV show challenges renowned chefs to cook with minimal seasoning while competing for prize money, promoting healthier eating habits and demonstrating that natural flavors can shine without excess salt and spices.

Thai TV Show Challenges Chefs to Cook With Less Seasoning
3 Aug Khaosod

Known as the "King of Food Content," Kitikorn Penroajn, CEO of Helicopnia H Group, has launched "Taste for Money," a new project partnering the Thai Health Promotion Foundation and Channel 7HD. The show sets an extreme challenge for chefs to minimize seasoning use while drawing out authentic flavors from raw ingredients, incorporating practical healthy cooking techniques. Kitikorn believes this is Thailand's first such program—and possibly the world's first—where chefs cook with the absolute minimum seasoning in exchange for prize money while promoting viewer health.

The concept emerged from discussions with health authorities who wanted a program that educates viewers about nutrition, since most modern health problems stem from diet. Excessive seasoning can harm the body, so the show demonstrates that reducing seasoning actually allows food's natural flavors to shine and marks the beginning of better health. The challenge excites chefs who normally rely heavily on seasonings; now they must find alternative techniques, such as using naturally sweet vegetables instead of sugar, or seaweed to enhance umami instead of fish sauce.

When chefs learned the rules, some initially worried, but the 50,000-baht prize motivated them. However, Kitikorn noted he sells additional seasoning in the show at premium prices—up to 15,000 baht per item—yet competitors work hard to avoid buying it, extracting maximum flavor from ingredients alone. He confirmed that bland or lightly seasoned food can taste excellent when chefs master flavor balance. Each 20-episode season features different health-focused themes, such as dishes for those at risk of diabetes, obesity, or high blood pressure. Judging focuses solely on taste, since seasoning quantities are pre-set; any additional seasoning must be purchased. The competitors are well-known chefs from MasterChef, Top Chef, and other popular Thai cooking shows.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai PM Arrives in Jakarta to Strengthen Indonesia Ties

Thailand's Prime Minister arrived in Jakarta on August 3 for an official state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties with Indonesia through cabinet-level talks with President Prabowo.

Thai PM Arrives in Jakarta to Strengthen Indonesia Ties
3 Aug Khaosod

Prime Minister Anuthín Charnvírakul and his delegation, including Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Seehasak Phuangketkit, Deputy PM and Commerce Minister Suphachai Sutthirpandej, Defense Minister Anudom Boontharm, Education Minister Prasert Chantarwangtong, and Agricultural Deputy Minister Wattarapol Khaokhwam, arrived at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta on August 3 at 3:45 p.m. to begin an official state visit to Indonesia through August 4.

The visit is at the invitation of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. General Sjamhari Kanyago, Indonesian Minister of Coordinating Political and Security Affairs, and Hari Prabowo, Indonesian Ambassador to Thailand, welcomed the delegation, along with Thai Ambassador to Jakarta Praphan Disyathat.

The delegation will receive a formal welcome and hold full cabinet-level talks with Indonesian President Prabowo at the Presidential Palace to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Labor Groups Urge Government to Delay Pension Formula Change

Thai labor unions are pushing the government to reconsider a new pension calculation formula, arguing it would reduce retirement benefits for workers rather than protect them.

Labor Groups Urge Government to Delay Pension Formula Change
3 Aug Khaosod

Labour union leader Sawit Kaewwan, president of the Thai Labour Harmony Association (SLRB), led a delegation to meet with Piphatchai Paiboon, spokesman for the Ministry of Labour, on August 3, 2024, to discuss objections to the CARE formula for calculating retirement benefits under the social security system. The union expressed concern that this approach may negatively impact insured workers' rights and called for a thorough government review.

Piphatchai stated that the ministry invited all relevant parties to discuss the matter and allow for an exchange of views on the concerns raised. He acknowledged that while many points of contention were clarified during the meeting, some issues remain unclear. The labour group is scheduled to meet with Labour Minister Julphan Amornvivat at Government House on August 4 to discuss the matter further.

The key point of disagreement centres on how to calculate the 180-day baseline period. One side argues that using only the final 180 days protects workers in case salaries drop, while the other contends that including earlier data from day one provides better security and certainty, even if recent salary reductions affect the calculation.

Sawit stated that the formula appears unfair and reflected concerns from multiple stakeholders. He argued that averaging all salary data will only reduce benefits, not increase them, and that using job uncertainty as justification contradicts the Labour Ministry's core mandate to protect workers and ensure social welfare. He also cautioned that assuming future employment patterns—such as variable hours or unpredictable income—may not align with reality and could lead to flawed policy design.

After extensive discussions, no consensus has been reached, as each side maintains that its proposed approach is correct and fair. The social security office also claims to uphold fairness principles but has yet to establish a universally accepted standard.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Pattaya Prison Tightens Watch Over Three Murder Suspects

Three murder suspects in a five-victim case are under 24-hour medical isolation at Pattaya Special Prison with continuous monitoring to prevent self-harm and inmate attacks.

Pattaya Prison Tightens Watch Over Three Murder Suspects
3 Aug Khaosod

On August 3, 2569, Patthasapong Jai-khlong-khaen, commander of Pattaya Special Prison, disclosed details about custody of three suspects in a five-victim murder and concealment case: Thana "Pong" Kaet-thong, Thongchai "Thong" Srinit, and Atthaphaang "Ball" Chuang-kham. All three have been placed in medical isolation for five days under continuous 24-hour monitoring to prevent self-harm and attacks from other inmates. A fourth suspect remains under police investigation pending transfer to prison.

The prison commander stated that all three suspects are in normal physical condition, eating regularly, and showing no signs of unusual stress or fear, though they appear emotionally withdrawn. Staff are closely monitoring their behavior through CCTV and direct observation due to the case's high public interest.

Pong has served three previous sentences at Pattaya Special Prison and was involved in a violent altercation with other inmates in 2564, after which he was transferred to Rayong Central Prison. He was released on June 2 after completing his previous sentence for attempted murder. The prison has implemented special safeguards including separating co-defendants into different cells, checking for networks of former inmates, and conducting continuous security risk assessments.

Regarding inmate classification, the prison commander explained that murder convictions result in the lowest classification level, "requiring significant improvement," which delays eligibility for sentence reductions or parole by years. Electronic monitoring (EM) is recommended by the prison in all serious cases, but the final decision rests with the court based on the prosecutor's petition under the Prevention of Repeat Offense Act.

Concerning reports of Pong's psychiatric history or medication use, the prison commander confirmed that initial health and mental screening found no abnormalities or concerning symptoms. However, nursing and clinical psychology staff will continue close monitoring throughout his detention.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

College Denies Responsibility for Ex-Student's Car Vandalism

A former student vandalized a vehicle in an incident the college says was purely personal and not sanctioned by the institution, which apologized and pledged cooperation with authorities.

College Denies Responsibility for Ex-Student's Car Vandalism
3 Aug Khaosod

On August 3, 2026, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Yasothon (Technic Rajsittharam) issued a statement regarding an incident in which a vehicle was damaged. The college expressed regret and concern over the incident involving a former student, clarifying that the act was purely personal and not undertaken on behalf of the institution or as a result of any college policy or operational directive. The college does not support any actions that damage others' property or affect the peace and image of the educational institution. It emphasized its commitment to instilling integrity, ethics, responsibility, and respect for others' rights and property among all students and alumni. The college apologized to those affected and called on all parties to report information about the incident carefully, without generalizing it to the college's students, staff, or personnel as a whole, since it was an individual's personal action. The college stated it is ready to cooperate with relevant authorities in accordance with government procedures and regulations to ensure the facts are presented correctly and fairly to all parties. The statement was issued by Surasak Kaewheid, Director of Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Yasothon, on August 3, 2026.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Woman Shocked by Electric Shock in Jacuzzi at Pool Villa

A woman received an electric shock while using a jacuzzi at a Phetchaburi pool villa in late July, alarming her when the manager dismissed her concerns and claimed no one had ever been shocked there before.

Woman Shocked by Electric Shock in Jacuzzi at Pool Villa
3 Aug Khaosod

A woman has shared her frightening experience of receiving an electric shock while bathing in a jacuzzi at a pool villa, issuing a public warning. She revealed the facility manager's troubling response: "How could electricity cause a shock? No one has ever been shocked here before." On August 3, 2569, a consumer group member recounted the incident from July 25, when she was enjoying a company outing with her husband and 10-month-old child at a pool villa in Phetchaburi province.

The pool villa's bathroom was equipped with a large jacuzzi suitable for the whole family. Around 9 p.m. on July 25, after soaking once and washing her hair, she went to adjust the hot and cold water taps for another bath. During the first tap adjustment, she felt what seemed like an electric shock on her hand, but wasn't certain. On the second attempt, however, she clearly felt a strong current running from her hand to her arm and immediately retreated, calling for her husband.

She took shelter near the toilet where her phone was located and called for help. Her husband rushed out of the bathroom and, standing back, attempted to kick near the water surface and confirmed the electric current was present. He immediately summoned coworkers, the housekeeper, and the villa owner to turn off the running water and cut the power.

Around 10:20 p.m., the villa manager arrived and helped switch off the circuit breaker to stop the electrical current before inspecting the bathroom. The guest requested the facility use a testing device to verify the electrical leak, but the staff declined, saying they believed there was definitely a fault. After repairs, the manager explained that water had splashed onto the water heater unit beside the tub—the area was covered by a bag containing wet patches—and he unplugged all electrical outlets nearby, then disabled the circuit breaker for that section and instructed guests to use the downstairs bathroom instead.

What upset the woman most was the manager's comment around 11 p.m.: "How could electricity cause a shock? No one has ever been shocked here before." She felt her experience was being dismissed despite her genuine fear and trauma. Her husband countered that if the manager didn't believe them, he could turn the breaker back on and touch it himself. The manager then fell silent and said nothing further before they went to check the breaker.

Afterward, the couple attempted to contact both the booking agency and the villa owner to demand a clear explanation of what had happened.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Engine Failure Fills Phuket Road With White Smoke

A pickup truck's engine failure released thick white smoke across the road up Kata Hill in Phuket on August 3, forcing drivers to slow down and reducing visibility until the vehicle was towed away.

Engine Failure Fills Phuket Road With White Smoke
3 Aug Khaosod

PHUKET — On August 3, 2026, a pickup truck released thick white smoke that covered a road leading up Kata Hill in Phuket, alarming drivers and sparking online debate about what caused the incident.

Dashcam footage posted on a local Facebook page showed a large plume of white smoke billowing continuously from a vehicle on the road up Kata Hill in Karon subdistrict, Muang district, Phuket.

The incident alarmed motorists traveling behind the truck, as the thick smoke spread across the road and reduced visibility. Drivers were forced to slow down and drive with extra caution to avoid accidents.

The Facebook post accompanying the footage asked: "A vehicle is spewing smoke all over the road on the way up Kata Hill. What caused this? Could the engine have overheated?"

Pol. Col. Pathapee Srichai, commander of Karon Police Station, later confirmed that the vehicle was a closed-body pickup truck. Engine damage caused the large amount of white smoke to pour from the vehicle, he said.

The vehicle owner then called a recovery truck to remove the pickup and take it to a repair shop. Traffic in the area returned to normal afterward.

Police advised motorists to perform regular maintenance checks on their vehicles, especially the engine, before driving. Such checks can prevent breakdowns that endanger drivers and others on the road and help reduce accident risk, police said.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Weather

Heavy Rain Damages Famous Sutong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son

Heavy rains and logs damaged the iconic Sutong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son on August 2, forcing its closure while authorities plan protective barriers and improved water management to prevent future flood damage.

Heavy Rain Damages Famous Sutong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son
3 Aug Khaosod

Heavy rainfall on August 2 unleashed strong currents that carried large logs crashing into the Sutong Pae Bridge abutment in Mueang District, Mae Hong Son Province, damaging its structure and rendering it impassable. The popular tourist attraction suffered significant impact, with debris accumulating around the bridge's support. Monks stationed at Phu Somnaraem Temple voluntarily dove into the water to clear fallen branches and timber, providing initial cleanup assistance.

Authorities have outlined long-term restoration plans, including construction of protective barriers using gabion boxes to strengthen the bridge and improved water management coordination with upstream and downstream water-user groups to mitigate future flood impacts. In the Mae Sanga community, three houses suffered damage with some household items destroyed. Provincial officials are closely monitoring rainfall levels and have alerted residents to remain vigilant, while emergency responders maintain 24-hour readiness with personnel, machinery, and equipment to assist affected communities if conditions worsen.

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.