Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Parents, Activists Mourn Brewery Fire Victims, Push Safety Law Changes

Families of the 32 Ladprao brewery fire victims joined activists demanding stricter safety laws and enforcement, with bereaved parents citing repeated emergency exit failures across multiple disasters. Civil society called for overhauling T

Parents, Activists Mourn Brewery Fire Victims, Push Safety Law Changes
23h ago Khaosod

On July 15, 2026, mourners continued to visit the Ladprao brewery fire site, leaving flowers and wreaths to honor the 32 victims. The Thai Engineering Institute conducted additional structural inspections while civil society representatives held a white-flower memorial and addressed media, demanding that authorities enforce stricter standards for service venues nationwide, align zoning with reality, and revise the outdated 1966 Service Establishment Act to include public participation and review alcohol sales extension policies.

Mahapakhai Khamkrasoer, father of Nathpong Khamkrasoer (known as "Poo Ud"), who died in a school bus fire at Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam School in Uthai Thani, drew parallels between his son's death and the brewery tragedy, noting that both involved emergency exit safety failures. He called on authorities to enforce safety standards strictly and urged the government to expand compensation beneficiary rules beyond biological parents to include grandparents who raise grandchildren.

Thirapat Kahaavong, representing civil networks, emphasized that such disasters repeat because the 1966 Service Establishment Act contains significant loopholes and enforcement gaps. He noted that venues may evade service establishment regulations under public health law, leaving safety measures incomplete, and that building control laws apply only to certain structures. He called for coordinated legal reform and enforcement, shifting responsibility from government alone to include operator accountability and public reporting mechanisms to prevent future incidents.

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National

Deputy PM Vows to Prosecute Officials Over Local Exam Fraud Audio

Deputy PM Somkid Jatusripitak vowed to prosecute officials involved in local exam fraud, urging swift investigation to restore public trust following allegations of bribery in government entrance exams.

Deputy PM Vows to Prosecute Officials Over Local Exam Fraud Audio
23h ago Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Somkid Jatusripitak reiterated the urgency of investigating alleged fraud in local government entrance exams, calling for swift action to rebuild public trust and vowing to hold accountable those responsible. At a press conference on July 15 at Government House, Somkid stated that multiple agencies are already investigating and awaiting results to determine who was complicit in the scheme. He emphasized the importance of speed to provide clarity and address public concerns about where accountability lies.

When asked about cases against two individuals named Kij and Som, who face defamation and Computer Crime Act charges over an audio clip falsely suggesting Somkid was involved in extorting bribes from local officials, the Deputy PM said he has already been cleared on his part. He asserted that while Kij has denied any connection to him, such denials are not genuine exoneration, noting that bad news is believed absolutely while good news barely registers at one percent public credibility. He confirmed that his legal team is pursuing charges and questioning related individuals.

When asked whether public skepticism that only minor figures are being targeted reflects reality, Somkid expressed confidence that the Prime Minister has ordered a thorough investigation in which anyone who broke the law will be arrested and prosecuted. He acknowledged that attacks on the government and particularly the Interior Ministry are routine political tactics, comparing them to media spin and manufactured stories. He called for fair and balanced news coverage from all outlets and cautioned that unverified stories, once believed by society, take far longer to disprove.

Responding to speculation the government cannot survive four years, Somkid argued that silence is more dangerous than scrutiny, using the analogy of a tsunami preceded by an eerie calm. He suggested that political controversy can be healthy if the government can respond and clarify allegations. When pressed on confidence in completing the four-year term, Somkid reflected on his long political career since 1992, noting that governments facing intense coverage often endure longer than expected.

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National

ION Energy Partners With Sigenergy to Install 5,000 Home Solar Systems

ION Energy and Sigenergy will install solar systems in 5,000 Thai homes by 2029, capitalizing on rising demand for hybrid systems with battery storage as consumers prioritize energy security.

ION Energy Partners With Sigenergy to Install 5,000 Home Solar Systems
23h ago Khaosod

ION Energy has signed a memorandum of understanding with Sigenergy, a global smart energy solution developer, to expand clean energy installations to 5,000 households across Thailand within three years (2026–2029). According to Peeragan Manakij, CEO of ION Energy, the company will also develop sales and service networks in Thailand's residential real estate market for sustained growth.

Historically, most Thais installed solar panels primarily to reduce daytime electricity costs using simple on-grid systems without energy storage. However, growing energy security concerns and geopolitical tensions have prompted many consumers to switch to hybrid systems with advanced inverter and battery storage technology. Hybrid systems now account for 40% of all new installations, reflecting changing consumer behavior.

Sigenergy, which manufactures solar inverters and energy storage systems with world-class technology, has selected ION Energy as its first partner in Thailand. The government's new residential solar program, which allows homeowners to sell power back at 2.20 baht per unit for ten years, is expected to further boost solar adoption. Sigenergy CEO Tony Xu noted that Thailand represents a high-growth opportunity for clean energy in Southeast Asia, aligning with the company's global energy transition goals. Sigenergy operates in over 120 countries with more than 25,000 registered installers, while ION Energy provides comprehensive solar solutions for both residential and real estate sectors.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Police

Survivor Recounts Escape From Bangkok Bar Fire, Loses Sister

A 26-year-old survivor of the Ladprao beer bar fire escaped but lost her sister, who was in the restroom when the blaze erupted; she now struggles with trauma and guilt over the tragedy.

Survivor Recounts Escape From Bangkok Bar Fire, Loses Sister
23h ago Khaosod

At 10:05 a.m. on July 15, 2025, at the Forensic Medicine Institute of Police Hospital, 26-year-old Ms. Waraporin Phalsadi, one of the survivors of the devastating fire at a beer bar in Ladprao, recounted her experience while mourning the loss of her close sister who was with her that day. She explained that on the day of the incident, she and her sister came to relax and socialize as usual. She was seated on the left side near the stage, approximately 10 meters from the exit.

Before the fire erupted, she detected a strong smell of gas drifting through the venue for about 5-10 minutes and noticed the stage lighting system malfunctioning, similar to a power outage. However, no one paid attention at the time, including her, because they assumed it was smoke from special effects that the venue regularly used during singer performances. It was only when a staff member shouted that this was not an effect but an actual fire, and thick smoke began billowing from the ceiling near the stage, that panic set in. Moments later, all the lights in the venue went out.

In that critical moment, she made a split-second decision to run for her life and managed to escape through the main entrance on the left side. Her sister, however, had excused herself to use the restroom just five minutes earlier, which meant she was trapped inside and ultimately perished in the fire. She acknowledged that this was her sister's first visit to that establishment, while she herself visited only occasionally.

Ms. Waraporin admitted her mental state is severely affected. The images from the incident remain vivid in her mind, and she cannot bear to read news or watch clips about the tragedy. Whenever she smells smoke or sees ambulance lights, she experiences severe anxiety, worry, and psychological distress. She also feels guilt for inviting her sister out, only for the tragedy to occur. Nevertheless, she wanted to send a final message to her sister: "Please do not worry about me surviving, and may you find peace in the next life."

Regarding the initial compensation of 10,000 baht offered by the bar, Ms. Waraporin believes it is far too little compared to a human life. She expressed concern that once media attention fades, long-term compensation may also disappear.

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Community

Best Kamsing's Fans Urge Block on 'Shipping' Content

Best Kamsing's family is urging fans to stop sharing romantic speculation content involving the entertainer, requesting they use blocking features and create a respectful fan community focused on his work rather than personal gossip.

Best Kamsing's Fans Urge Block on 'Shipping' Content
23h ago Khaosod

Best Kamsing's fan community is requesting cooperation to stop sharing romantic speculation content involving the entertainer and other individuals. Fans are being asked to use the block feature if they encounter such material, and the community is being urged to create a fan space that respects the artist and supports his work rather than personal gossip. Best's family account bestkamsing.family recently issued a formal statement requesting that fans refrain from distributing clips, images, or 'shipping' content between Best and any third party. The statement explains that spreading such content creates misunderstandings and can damage the reputation of the artist, his colleagues, and related parties both now and in the future. While romantic speculation is considered a personal right, the family argues that public distribution directly impacts the entertainer and asks fans to respect his privacy and personal life choices. Going forward, the account will immediately block any profiles that continue sharing such content to prevent both sides from encountering each other's material and allow everyone to support the artist comfortably according to their preferred approach. The family is calling on all fans to create a fan community that respects the artist, values privacy, and supports his work based on facts rather than personal speculation, allowing Best to grow both professionally and personally. The statement concludes: 'The best support is respecting the artist's decisions and happiness. Thank you all for your understanding and cooperation, with respect.'

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Police

Armed Assailant Opens Fire on Police Officer's Home in Yala

An armed assailant fired multiple shots at a police captain's home in Yala's Yaha district on July 14, but the officer and his two sons escaped unharmed. Investigators recovered seven shell casings and are searching for the unidentified gun

Armed Assailant Opens Fire on Police Officer's Home in Yala
23h ago Khaosod

Police are investigating a shooting at the home of Capt. Merarobing Kari, 35, a Thar To Police Station officer, in Yala province's Yaha district on the evening of July 14. The officer was arriving home on a motorcycle with his two sons after completing religious observances when unidentified attackers fired multiple shots at the residence as he was closing the gate. The bullets struck only the walls and gate, and the officer and his children escaped unharmed. Investigators recovered three bullet casings inside the home and four 5.56mm shell casings from a nearby durian orchard approximately 15–20 meters away. The officer stated he has no known personal conflicts with anyone. Police explosives experts and the Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit are processing evidence to identify the weapon and locate the suspects for further prosecution.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Panel Chief Skeptical Exam Fraud Case Will Catch Real Masterminds

A parliamentary committee investigating local government exam fraud expressed skepticism that authorities will catch the masterminds behind the scheme, warning that investigations risk arresting only low-level operatives unless investigator

Panel Chief Skeptical Exam Fraud Case Will Catch Real Masterminds
23h ago Khaosod

At a parliamentary session on July 15, Deputy Interior Minister Rangsiman Rom, vice-chairman of the ruling People's Party and chair of the House legal affairs committee, discussed the panel's investigation into cheating on local government exams. Previously, complaints were filed with the committee, and after analysis, officials determined the matter warranted investigation. The meeting summoned relevant government figures, including Interior Ministry and Department of Local Administration officials, as well as those connected to the TOR examination system. Rom hoped the session would yield enough detail to determine whether authorities would address the core problem or merely apprehend minor operatives. He stated the investigation is crucial because evidence and facts are unusually clear this time, offering an opportunity to dismantle the entire scheme rather than repeating past efforts that yielded limited results.

When asked whether the investigation would reach the top conspirators, Rom expressed concern that catching the "big fish" may not happen. Although thousands appear involved, many are likely test-takers, employers, or unwitting participants. The critical question, he said, is who ultimately received the money. Without tracing the financial trail to identify the principal beneficiary, authorities risk arresting only those without state power or influence. Rom emphasized that investigators must identify the masterminds behind the scheme to genuinely combat exam fraud. He noted multiple committees, both opposition and government-aligned, are examining the case and acknowledged challenges in securing cooperation from state agencies and officials.

Rom identified the TOR system itself as a key focus, asking whether its apparent vulnerabilities were intentional design flaws intended to facilitate cheating or simple mistakes. Sophisticated operators, he suggested, may have exploited loopholes, and investigators must analyze whether the system was deliberately opened to abuse. He stated that following the money and other evidence should reveal who truly benefited from the scheme. When asked about Deputy Nakhon Ratchasima Governor Manas Suwannarin's assertion that the TOR system is secure and resistant to fraud, Rom said officials' explanations must be heard first, though the committee's initial assessment suggests vulnerabilities exist. He indicated investigators must determine whether any flaws stemmed from contractor negligence, such as that of Srinakharinwirot University, or from the scheme's architects' sophisticated methods.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Party Submits Mining Data to China Over River Pollution

Thai lawmakers submitted data on 2,676 Myanmar mines to China's ambassador, requesting investigation into water pollution affecting Thailand and neighboring countries, with Beijing pledging support if evidence shows mines are exporting cont

Thai Party Submits Mining Data to China Over River Pollution
23h ago Khaosod

The Thai People's Party announced the results of talks with China's ambassador after submitting information on 2,676 mines in Myanmar, requesting investigation into water contamination and urging the government to lead the effort to resolve the issue. On July 15, 2024, at parliament, Nuttapong Ruangpanya, a Thai People's Party list MP and party leader, briefed reporters following a shadow cabinet meeting about water pollution problems. He stated that the party had discussed the issue directly with the Chinese embassy, and China expressed its readiness to support Thailand in addressing these problems, as the toxins affect not only Thai citizens but also millions in neighboring countries.

The embassy promised that if there is factual evidence showing that mines operating in neighboring countries are causing pollution and exporting minerals to China, China—which has strict laws on rare earth imports requiring environmental protection—would be willing to intervene, as it cares about its image and does not want the Thai public and international community to view the Chinese government as supporting improper business practices.

Nuttapong further stated that he and Pattrapong Leelapart, a Chiang Mai Thai People's Party MP, met directly with the Chinese ambassador on July 14 at the Chinese embassy. They compiled all factual data and scientific test results showing that the toxins may not originate from Thailand but from neighboring countries, and they thanked the ambassador for emphasizing that the information would be sent to Beijing and the Chinese government directly.

Nuttapong said that China has requested that the Thai government and neighboring countries work together to solve the problem, as China cannot resolve it alone. He expressed confidence that if Thailand uses proper diplomacy and takes the lead as a directly affected nation, the Chinese government will support Thai efforts and is ready to establish a multi-party working group with China, Thailand, Myanmar, and other countries to jointly verify facts.

Pattrapong stated that on July 14, he submitted a detailed memo with supporting documents to China, providing clear evidence beyond just water and soil test results. The submission includes the coordinates of 2,676 mines in neighboring countries, asking China to investigate them according to its own existing laws—not requesting China to take any action outside its legal framework. He explained that this is an initial request to enable the Thai People's Party to fulfill its role as a representative of all affected citizens, bridging China and the public to demonstrate China's sincerity and concern for this issue. The party submitted over 500 pages of documents, including scientific data and research supporting the fact that the toxins do not originate within Thailand, yet Thailand and all Mekong Basin countries are suffering the full impact.

"The environment has no borders, and all people are affected together regardless of ethnicity," Pattrapong said. "However, the Thai government must take the lead on this issue seriously, because Thailand gains no benefit from this problem."

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

US Chipmaker ADI Opens Design and Testing Hub in Thailand

US chipmaker Analog Devices opened a 19-billion-baht chip design and testing hub in Thailand's Chachoengsao province, projecting exports to reach 130 billion baht in 2025 while expanding its workforce from 1,300 to 2,500 employees.

US Chipmaker ADI Opens Design and Testing Hub in Thailand
23h ago Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanprasit, chairing the Board of Investment, led executives to inspect Analog Devices' new manufacturing facility at Amata City Industrial Estate in Chachoengsao on July 12, 2026. The US semiconductor leader is establishing a global-class chip design and testing center with a combined investment of over 19 billion baht.

Analog Devices, a market leader in specialized chips for analog-to-digital conversion, sensor systems, and digital signal processing across automotive, telecommunications, aerospace, digital, energy, and medical sectors, began its Thai operations following a 2021 merger with Maxim Integrated Products. The expansion covers IC and PCB design centers, wafer and IC testing facilities, failure analysis and reliability laboratories, and advanced semiconductor R&D.

The company exported over 98 billion baht in products from Thailand in 2024 and projects exports will reach 130 billion baht in 2025. Currently employing approximately 1,300 Thai staff—including over 450 researchers and engineers—Analog Devices plans to expand to 2,500 employees, adding 500 engineers and 500 technicians. Notably, the company's senior management is entirely Thai-led by Managing Director Wirut Sriomrakkij, who also chairs the Thai Semiconductor Industry Association. The company has invested heavily in workforce development through partnerships with over 10 educational institutions nationwide, with intern-to-permanent-hire rates rising from 10% in 2023 to 53% in 2025.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Coroner Confirms 32 Dead in Brewery Fire, All Identified

All 32 victims from the brewery fire have been identified, with authorities releasing bodies to families for religious ceremonies by July 15, 2025. Most deaths resulted from smoke inhalation, with 27 killed at the scene and five others dyin

Coroner Confirms 32 Dead in Brewery Fire, All Identified
23h ago Khaosod

Medical examiners have confirmed a total of 32 deaths from the brewery fire, with all victims now identified and preparations underway to return bodies to families for religious rites by end of day July 15, 2025. Pol. Lt. Gen. Wirun Suphasing, director of the Police Hospital Institute of Forensic Medicine, stated that 27 victims died at the scene while 5 others died during hospital treatment—an increase of 2 from the previous day. Some patients who were transferred and subsequently died had been treated at Paolo Phahonyothin Hospital, Ladprao Hospital, and one case at Chonburi Hospital. The forensic institute's autopsy and identification process has been completed for all 32 victims. Of these, 28 bodies have been handed over to families for religious ceremonies, while 4 remain awaiting relatives' arrival and documentation submission. Authorities expect all bodies will be released today. Preliminary autopsy findings indicate that most deaths resulted from smoke inhalation, with some victims also showing severe burns across their bodies. Among the 5 additional deaths, victims had initially been classified in critical condition before deteriorating and passing away.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Uses Refinery Funds to Stabilize Oil Prices

Thailand is using refinery revenues and a 10.5 billion baht oil fund to cushion domestic fuel prices against global market volatility sparked by Middle East tensions, with the Energy Ministry pledging gradual adjustments rather than sudden

Thailand Uses Refinery Funds to Stabilize Oil Prices
23h ago Khaosod

Energy Minister Eknath Prom-on addressed domestic fuel price conditions on July 15, 2025, at Government House, following recent global market increases sparked by Middle East tensions. He noted that all fuel types had risen sharply over the past week, but Thailand continues using a refinery pricing mechanism to draw refinery revenues and reduce pump prices. The government also manages prices through an oil fund to align with market conditions without the sharp, frequent adjustments of the past. The Energy Ministry monitors the situation daily to prevent rapid or severe price increases tied to world markets.

When asked whether prices would remain stable, the minister said daily assessments are necessary, but any adjustments would be gradual rather than sudden. Oil supply management is also underway. Crude oil stocks remain stable and refined product reserves in storage tanks are nearly full, confirming no fuel shortage. Price management will follow market mechanisms.

Asked what conditions would trigger a price increase, Prom-on said the approach is gradual. Thailand does not constantly track Singapore prices; even when using them as a reference, the government reduces prices by deploying refinery funds. The 10.5 billion baht oil fund is currently being used to subsidize pump prices. When prices fall, the fund sees little drawdown due to prior deficits from before the minister's tenure. The government will continue using both refinery pricing and the fund to prevent prices from fluctuating sharply with global markets.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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