Lanta & News
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National

Yanhee Hospital Launches LGBTQ+ Medical Center to Boost Thailand's Healthcare Hub Status

Yanhee Hospital is investing over 100 million baht to establish a dedicated LGBTQ+ medical center, aiming to position Thailand as Asia's leading hub for gender-affirming surgery and comprehensive LGBTQ+ healthcare services.

Yanhee Hospital Launches LGBTQ+ Medical Center to Boost Thailand's Healthcare Hub Status
28 Jul Khaosod

Yanhee Hospital has announced plans to expand comprehensive healthcare services for LGBTQ+ individuals, capitalizing on the growing medical tourism and pride economy sectors worldwide. The hospital will invest over 100 million baht to develop infrastructure and long-term service systems, positioning Thailand as Asia's leading LGBTQ+ medical hub.

Amidst international competition to develop specialized medical services and attract patients globally, LGBTQ+ healthcare has emerged as a high-potential, rapidly growing market sector. Multiple countries are racing to establish leadership in this emerging field of medical tourism and healthcare business. Yanhee Hospital stands at the forefront of this industry and is a key player driving Thailand's transformation into an LGBTQ+ medical hub for the Asian region.

Dr. Sirintra Samuddhavinichai, Chief Executive Officer of Yanhee Hospital, stated that the hospital is undergoing transformation to a new era. Hospital competition extends beyond medical technology to include human understanding and the ability to create a health ecosystem that genuinely serves patients' needs.

For decades, Yanhee Hospital has been recognized as Thailand's leader in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. However, responding to global changes, the organization has expanded its mission to become a comprehensive health service center for LGBTQ+ individuals.

"LGBTQ+ patients do not come because they are sick, but to align their bodies and identities. What they need is not just treatment, but understanding, respect, and confidence that they will receive equitable care," Dr. Sirintra said.

This philosophy led to the establishment of the "Yanhee Support Pride Center," a comprehensive health service center for LGBTQ+ individuals operating under a "One Roof Service" concept. Services include mental health counseling, hormone management, gender-affirming surgery, specialized surgical procedures, voice training, long-term health monitoring, and post-treatment quality-of-life support.

This approach reflects a global shift in healthcare, viewing patients not merely as medical service recipients but as human beings with specific needs across all life dimensions.

Dr. Sirintra noted that Thailand's LGBTQ+ healthcare market is not driven solely by Thai patients. Data shows that over 74% of male-to-female gender-affirming surgery patients are foreigners, while 55% of female-to-male surgery patients are international patients.

Key source countries include China, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, the United States, and Australia, demonstrating that Thailand is becoming a healthcare destination for LGBTQ+ individuals worldwide, not just a tourism destination.

This is especially significant across Asia, where many countries face legal, cultural, and access limitations to specialized medical services. Thailand offers international-standard care within an open and LGBTQ+ friendly society, making it an important option for those seeking quality care.

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Police

Employment Agency Scam: Thais Lose 290,000 Baht Each, Jailed in Ireland

Two Chiang Rai residents lost 290,000 baht each to a fraudulent employment agency that promised factory work in Ireland, then were jailed upon arrival for using fake documents. The unlicensed company has defrauded at least 20 other victims,

Employment Agency Scam: Thais Lose 290,000 Baht Each, Jailed in Ireland
28 Jul Khaosod

On July 28, Manop, 27, and Bandit, 25, both from Chiang Rai, filed complaints with the Chiang Rai Employment Office seeking help after being defrauded by an employment agency that promised them work at a food processing factory in Ireland. Each victim lost 290,000 baht in processing fees plus approximately 20,000 baht for airfare, and were imprisoned in a foreign jail for over three days.

Manop explained that he, his girlfriend, and a friend were referred to a company in Pa Daet District to work in Ireland. The agency required payment in three installments totaling 290,000 baht per person. When they arrived in Ireland in early June, immigration officials arrested them immediately upon arrival, alleging they attempted to use fraudulent documents because their paperwork did not match system records.

"We were detained from June 3 for three days and two nights in a dark, cramped four-person cell. My girlfriend was isolated alone, in severe psychological distress with no way to contact anyone. That country has no Thai embassy," Manop said. Bandit tearfully recounted that because she could not communicate in English, she was held in solitary confinement, suffering severe depression and suicidal thoughts after just a week. She was released on June 7.

After returning to Thailand, they attempted to recover their money but were repeatedly stalled. Upon posting warnings online, they discovered over 20 other victims of the same agency. Some had cancellations before departure but have not received refunds since February. Investigation by the Chiang Rai Employment Office revealed the company was licensed only for tourist visa processing, not labor export services.

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Police

University Launches Investigation Into Lecturer's Loan Scheme

A university lecturer has been suspended and is under investigation for allegedly borrowing tens of thousands of baht from a female student and refusing to repay it, while also facing charges for unauthorized fee collection.

University Launches Investigation Into Lecturer's Loan Scheme
28 Jul Khaosod

The Faculty of Education has launched a formal investigation into a young lecturer accused of borrowing tens of thousands of baht from a female student, transferring it to pay a male student, and refusing to repay the debt. The lecturer has been suspended from teaching, and the university is pursuing charges for unauthorized fee collection as well.

On July 28, 2026, the university established an investigation committee and prepared charges against the lecturer for collecting study material fees without authorization. According to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Greetha Promtep, dean of the Faculty of Education, a student filed a formal complaint with the university, and the rector ordered the faculty to conduct an urgent factual investigation.

The Faculty of Education appointed an investigation committee to examine the facts according to university regulations and procedures. To protect the complaining student, the faculty issued an order prohibiting the accused lecturer from teaching during the investigation. The committee has already recorded statements from the student and relevant parties, and on July 27, 2026, it conducted questioning of the accused lecturer according to schedule. The investigation includes allegations about study material fees as one of the key issues. The university is proceeding according to law and regulations while ensuring fairness to all parties and protecting the student from harm.

Reporters have been unable to contact the lecturer for his account of events.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Italian Kitchen Brand Elica Debuts World-First All-in-One Appliance

Italian premium kitchen brand Elica makes its Thai debut with the Lhov, a world-first all-in-one appliance combining oven, induction cooktop, and ventilation, launched at CentralWorld on July 23.

Italian Kitchen Brand Elica Debuts World-First All-in-One Appliance
28 Jul Khaosod

Elica, a premium Italian kitchen appliance brand recognized globally for design and innovation, has made its official Thai debut through distributor Cucina Galleria, introducing a new vision of open-kitchen living through the launch of the Elica Lhov, the world's first all-in-one kitchen appliance that combines an oven, induction cooktop, and ventilation system. The unveiling took place on July 23, 2025, at CentralWorld shopping center.

Elica CEO Kritanan Sonthichirawong revealed that global kitchen design trends are shifting from kitchens as mere cooking spaces to open-kitchen concepts that connect with living areas while addressing air quality, noise levels, and lighting simultaneously. These three elements form the core of Elica's product design philosophy, allowing kitchens and living spaces to integrate seamlessly while reflecting the homeowner's taste and lifestyle.

With over 50 years of kitchen innovation experience, Elica is recognized as a leader in ventilation hoods and kitchen appliances, distinguished by Italian design, engineering expertise, and smart technology. The brand has won numerous international design awards including Compasso d'Oro, Red Dot Design Award, iF Design Award, Good Design Award, and Archiproducts Design Awards. The event showcased Elica's "Artfully Inventive" philosophy, blending art, design, and innovation into every product.

The Elica Lhov represents a groundbreaking innovation never before conceived by any brand worldwide, integrating an oven, induction cooktop, and ventilation system into a single unit. Additionally, the NikolaTesla Collection of induction cooktops with integrated ventilation systems was unveiled, featuring a distinctive matte black finish that reduces fingerprints and simplifies cleaning.

The event also included a special talk by architect Nuttapon Techopichit from Looklen Architects, who discussed the kitchen's role in modern home design and how good design elevates quality of life. Kritanan emphasized that kitchen appliances should not merely serve functional purposes but should be essential design elements that enhance living experiences and the value of shared moments.

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Police

Man Arrested for Stealing Temple Donation Box, Squandering Funds on Online Gambling

A 34-year-old man was arrested at a Bangkok temple after admitting he stole a donation box and lost the money to online gambling, then returned to commit the same crime again.

Man Arrested for Stealing Temple Donation Box, Squandering Funds on Online Gambling
28 Jul Khaosod

On July 28, 2026, Pol. Col. Anant Worasart, superintendent of Bang Khen Police Station, ordered officers including Pol. Lt. Col. Kosalpicha Seema and Pol. Lt. Col. Yuranun Phetmani to arrest Thanesheet, age 34, at Siri Phongsa Tammanimita Temple on Sukaphipat 4 Road, Tamraeng subdistrict, Bang Khen district, Bangkok.

The arrest followed an incident on July 19 at 3:05 a.m., when a suspect broke into the school building inside the temple and stole a donation box. Security footage showed a man wearing a white shirt and black pants prying open the donation box, stealing money, and escaping by scaling the temple wall and jumping into a taxi.

On July 27 at 8:30 p.m., officers received a tip that a man matching the suspect's description was loitering inside the temple. Upon investigation and questioning, Thanesheet admitted to stealing the donation box in the first incident and spending all the money on online gambling. Overwhelmed by guilt, he had returned to the temple to steal the donation box again from the same location, but was apprehended by police before he could escape a second time. He was initially charged with nighttime theft and handed over to Bang Khen Police Station for further legal proceedings.

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Community

Four-Year-Old Sneaks Durian to School as Gift for Teacher

A Malaysian four-year-old secretly packed an entire durian into his school bag to gift his beloved teacher who was transferring to a new school, creating an unforgettable classroom moment despite the pungent smell.

Four-Year-Old Sneaks Durian to School as Gift for Teacher
28 Jul Khaosod

A touching story from Malaysia is warming hearts online after one mother recounted the amusing moment when her nearly four-year-old son secretly packed an entire durian into his school bag to give as a gift to his teacher, who was about to transfer to a new school.

The mother explained that the teacher had once asked the children what snacks they would like to bring or share at school, and her son immediately answered, "I want to bring durian." It happened that the boy's grandfather had just bought durian at home, so the child quickly asked, "Did you buy this durian for my teacher?" He then selected the durian himself and stuffed it into his school bag, announcing to everyone in the house that he would present it to his teacher the next day.

Although the mother had already prepared another gift for the teacher and tried to persuade her son to change his mind, he insisted on bringing the durian himself. The next morning, as soon as the teacher entered the classroom, the boy rushed over to hug her and said he had a gift. When the teacher asked what it was, the child unzipped his bag and pulled out an entire durian. The teacher was astonished by the surprising gift and later sent a message to the mother, humorously recounting how the durian smell had spread throughout the entire classroom, creating a moment nobody would forget.

The mother also revealed that her son used to fall ill frequently and rarely attended school, and had once complained that this teacher was "mean." However, after the teacher showed care, comfort, and attention, the boy transformed into someone who wanted to go to school every day. Shortly after, the teacher received orders to transfer to a new school, prompting the boy to intentionally choose this special gift to give.

What made many people even more touched was that the boy doesn't actually enjoy eating durian and doesn't even like its smell, yet he willingly carried an entire durian to school simply because he wanted to give it to his "favorite teacher" to express his love and gratitude from the heart. She decided to share these heartwarming stories on social media.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Hair Knot Tangled Around Man's Tongue Base

A doctor carefully removed a strand of hair knotted around a young man's tongue after he experienced slurred speech and a sensation of obstruction while drinking. Experts warn against attempting self-removal of such foreign objects and advi

Hair Knot Tangled Around Man's Tongue Base
28 Jul Khaosod

An ENT specialist has reported an unusual case involving a young man who came to the clinic complaining of slurred speech and a sensation of his tongue feeling "stuck and obstructed." The patient reported that while drinking, he suddenly felt what seemed like a wire wrapped around his tongue, and when he probed with his finger, he felt a thin strand attached.

Upon detailed examination, Dr. Chen Shih-Szu discovered the culprit was not a wire but a long strand of hair knotted tightly around the circumvallate papillae—large taste buds located at the back of the tongue. The doctor initially attempted to remove the hair with forceps but stopped immediately when the patient cried out in pain. Using an endoscope for safer inspection, the doctor identified the true cause and carefully untangled the hair using curved forceps, successfully removing it without injury to the mouth's lining.

Dr. Chen emphasized that people should never attempt to remove foreign objects from the throat or mouth on their own, especially using folk remedies like swallowing rice or vinegar, as these can worsen the condition. He outlined four danger signs requiring immediate medical attention: continuous pain while swallowing, worsening pain after attempted self-removal, bleeding or fever, and symptoms affecting speech, breathing, or swallowing.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Police

Former Employee Arrested in Death of Ex-National Tennis Player

A Myanmar national employed for just one month was arrested after strangling and stabbing a 64-year-old former tennis player in Chachoengsao on July 26, then transferring 37,500 baht from the victim's account. CCTV footage tracked the suspe

Former Employee Arrested in Death of Ex-National Tennis Player
28 Jul Khaosod

Police have identified the killer of a 64-year-old former national beach tennis player as Saw Tad Lawin, 29, a Myanmar national who had been employed by the victim for only one month before being dismissed one to two weeks prior to the murder. The crime, which occurred in Nong Prue, Bang Lamung, Chachoengsao on July 26 around 4 a.m., involved strangulation and stabbing. Police discovered that 37,500 baht was transferred from the victim's account during the suspected time of death, with Saw Tad Lawin identified as the recipient. An arrest warrant was issued on July 28 based on strong evidence.

CCTV footage provided crucial evidence in the investigation. Cameras near the victim's home captured a suspicious man leaving the residence at 4:35 a.m. on July 26, then riding a gray Honda Click motorcycle away from the scene at 4:37 a.m. Police traced the suspect's movements through multiple camera feeds across approximately 10 kilometers to a residence in Pattaya, where CCTV showed him changing clothes near a room at 5:05 a.m. on July 26 before disposing of evidence and disappearing.

Authorities initially discovered the suspect had entered Thailand two years ago and gave addresses in Phloyaem, Rayong and Bo Win, Chachoengsao, but both locations were abandoned. Police later tracked him to Mae Sod, Tak province, where he was spotted. Investigation teams from Chachoengsao and Region 2 are coordinating to apprehend him and bring him back for legal proceedings. Financial tracking also revealed he transferred an additional 10,000 baht from the stolen funds to another account.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Renowned Vet Dr. Neay Announces Death of Wife Pu from Cancer

Beloved veterinarian Dr. Neay announced the death of his wife Pu from cancer on July 28, vowing to continue their shared mission of animal care at their clinic.

Renowned Vet Dr. Neay Announces Death of Wife Pu from Cancer
28 Jul Khaosod

Dr. Neay, a celebrated veterinarian known for his catchphrase "Come stay with the doctor," is admired for his compassionate care of sick animals and entertaining content featuring dogs and cats. His wife, Pu, was diagnosed with cancer and received treatment while Dr. Neay supported her as her devoted husband until her final days.

On July 28 at 2:00 p.m., Dr. Neay posted an emotional message announcing that his wife had peacefully passed away after a long struggle with pain. Even during her illness, Pu's greatest concerns were not for herself but for Dr. Neay's wellbeing, his work, and the animals waiting for care at their clinic. She worried about the small home they built together and all the dreams they shared.

In his post, Dr. Neay assured Pu that he would continue their mission. He pledged to care for the clinic, treat dogs and cats with the same dedication, help as many animals as he can, and care for their beloved pets as they had promised each other. He expressed gratitude for every moment of their life together and vowed to continue fulfilling their shared dreams, even as he walks forward alone. Dr. Neay concluded with a message of love: "Our love does not end on the day she left, but will live on in every life we continue to help from now on."

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Historic Steam Train Launches Bangkok-Ayutthaya Route for King's Birthday

Thailand's State Railway launched a heritage steam train service between Bangkok and Ayutthaya on July 28 to celebrate the King's birthday, offering passengers a nostalgic journey through the UNESCO World Heritage city. The SRT plans to ope

Historic Steam Train Launches Bangkok-Ayutthaya Route for King's Birthday
28 Jul Khaosod

The State Railway of Thailand officially launched a special heritage steam train service on the Bangkok-Ayutthaya-Bangkok route on July 28, 2025, marking the birthday of His Majesty the King. SRT Governor Anant Photinimitdaeng presided over the ceremony at Bangkok Station (Hua Lamphong), accompanied by Prasit Thaworn, Director of Passenger Services, and Annaporn Wongvijarn, Senior Mechanical Engineer, along with railway staff, officials, and the public expressing their loyalty and well-wishes.

The heritage steam train service was designed to allow citizens to celebrate this important national occasion while experiencing a nostalgic journey through history to Ayutthaya, a UNESCO World Heritage city rich in historical significance, art, culture, and local identity. The initiative supports rail tourism promotion, historical heritage conservation, and sustainable tourism development in the region.

Ayutthaya is a major tourist destination for both Thai and international visitors, featuring valuable ancient monuments and temples, riverside Chao Phraya lifestyle, historic markets, and distinctive local cuisine. The steam train journey allows passengers to step back in time, immerse themselves in historical atmosphere, and appreciate the beauty of this world heritage city.

The SRT plans to operate heritage steam trains seven times annually on significant occasions. The next scheduled service will run on August 12, 2025 (Mother's Day) on the Bangkok-Chachoengsao-Bangkok route, offering passengers another opportunity to experience this memorable journey. Interested passengers can book tickets or request information through the SRT Customer Service Center at 1690 (available 24/7) or follow updates on the "PR Team State Railway of Thailand" Facebook page.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

King's Innovation: Wheelchair-Accessible Bicycle Design Honored

Thailand's Department of Intellectual Property honored King Maha Vajiralongkorn by showcasing his patent for an innovative arm-powered bicycle designed to enable people with disabilities to cycle independently using foot-operated controls.

King's Innovation: Wheelchair-Accessible Bicycle Design Honored
28 Jul Khaosod

The Department of Intellectual Property (DIP) under the Ministry of Commerce honors His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn on his birthday on July 28, 2569, by showcasing intellectual property achievements from the royal repository. This celebrates the King's innovation, design expertise, and creativity that have improved the quality of life for Thai people, particularly by providing people with disabilities equal opportunities to live, exercise, and participate in society.

DIP Director-General Aromon Sapthawithum noted that the department is sharing these royal intellectual property works to help the public understand the value of innovation and design that addresses real-world needs. This demonstrates that intellectual property systems are not merely tools to protect inventors' and creators' rights, but also mechanisms that promote practical innovations that benefit society.

One notable achievement reflecting the "Universal Design" principle is a patent for an arm-powered bicycle for people with arm disabilities. When serving as Crown Prince, His Majesty developed this invention to enable people with arm disabilities to ride bicycles independently. The bicycle features a 21-speed rear-wheel drive system with modified gear-changing and braking systems that users can control with their feet rather than hands. Additionally, His Majesty designed a steering control device that received a product design patent—an adjustable support bar that can be customized to suit each user's physique, providing stable balance and control. This design innovation prioritizes both safety and user convenience, enhancing opportunities for exercise, physical rehabilitation, and improved quality of life for people with disabilities.

Both designs were developed and manufactured through Suksamran Bicycle Shop, a cycling facility established in 2558 by royal initiative to promote cycling for fitness and health. Royal guards trained in bicycle repair and assembly techniques build and customize bicycles for people with arm disabilities before presenting them. The shop also holds a registered service trademark for "Suksamran Bicycle Shop" to establish identity and credibility. This represents the practical application of intellectual property systems combined with innovation for public benefit. The shop continues to serve the public today, sustaining the royal initiative to promote cycling for health and fitness.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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