Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Regional

Phuket Islamic Savings Group Marks 29 Years

A Phuket Islamic savings group with over 60 million baht in assets held its annual meeting, with officials commending its efforts to strengthen financial independence among the local Muslim community.

Phuket Islamic Savings Group Marks 29 Years
27 Jul The Phuket News

PHUKET: An Islamic community savings group in Phuket with assets of more than B60 million has held its annual general meeting, with provincial officials praising its role in promoting financial self-reliance and welfare within the islands Muslim community.

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National

Bridgestone Launches Premium Sport Tire for EVs and High-Performance Cars

Bridgestone launches the POTENZA SPORT EVO, a premium sport tire engineered for high-performance and electric vehicles with superior wet grip, extended tire life, and reduced rolling resistance. The tire arrives in Thailand in 2025 across 7

Bridgestone Launches Premium Sport Tire for EVs and High-Performance Cars
27 Jul Khaosod

Bridgestone has unveiled the BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT EVO, a new premium sport tire designed for high-performance vehicles and electric cars.

Akihito Ishii, managing director of Bridgestone Sales (Thailand) Ltd., stated that as a leading global tire manufacturer, Bridgestone is committed to continuous research and development to deliver innovations meeting diverse consumer needs and creating a new phenomenon in Thailand's tire market.

The new BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT EVO tire stands out for its superior qualities developed under the concept of 'Ultimate Control, Superior Performance,' delivering excitement to drivers while ensuring safety and confidence on all road types. The tire delivers precise handling control, superior road grip, and extended tire life, and is designed to support both high-performance vehicles and electric vehicles (EV Ready) to meet the needs of drivers prioritizing performance, safety, and operational efficiency. It features five key characteristics:

Confident braking even on wet roads: Achieves the highest wet grip standard (Wet Grip Index: A Grade) across all tire sizes, with wet braking distance 5% shorter than the previous model*

Precise braking on dry roads: Innovative curved block design reduces deformation and increases contact pressure, allowing better road grip and reducing dry braking distance by 2% compared to the previous model*

Confident control at all speeds: Varied groove sizing increases grip area, reinforced with Nylon and Aramid Fibers at the tire shoulder for enhanced strength, giving drivers more confident control at all speeds

Extended tire life: Overall improvements result in 15% longer tire life, or more than 6,000 kilometers*

Greater fuel efficiency: Rolling Resistance Coefficient (RRC) reduced by up to 6%*

In the era of electric vehicles, Bridgestone recognizes the demands of drivers who still crave speed and high performance. BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT EVO was specially designed with innovative features emphasizing lighter weight and reduced rolling resistance, improving energy efficiency especially for electric vehicles (EV Ready).

Ishii added that BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT EVO is an innovation Bridgestone is proud to present to Thai consumers, particularly drivers who value premium-quality tires. The company believes this tire will meet the needs of electric vehicle owners seeking excellent performance, precise control, superior grip, and extended tire life.

BRIDGESTONE POTENZA SPORT EVO will be available in 2025 in a total of 71 sizes, ranging from 18-22 inch rims, starting at 5,150 baht**

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Community

Pong Lang Sa On Reunites After 20 Years, Sells Out Swedish Tour

Thai pop group Pong Lang Sa On reunited after a decade apart for a sold-out European tour that drew such massive crowds their Stockholm concert had to be halted due to safety concerns. The three-member group spent over a month performing ac

Pong Lang Sa On Reunites After 20 Years, Sells Out Swedish Tour
27 Jul Khaosod

Pong Lang Sa On has made a spectacular comeback. Members Eed, Lala, and Lulu reunited for a European tour lasting over a month, reigniting fan fever across multiple countries. The group received such overwhelming support that their Stockholm concert had to be temporarily halted due to overcrowding. They returned to discuss their experience on One31's Khui Sab Show with hosts Chompoo Koenboonlae and Pekky Sridhanya.

When asked about reuniting after 20 years of knowing each other but spending over a decade apart, Lala said, "We've known each other for 20 years, but we've been apart for about 10 years and now we're back together."

Eed explained, "It's been tough being apart. We haven't gathered in so long because we all went our separate ways pursuing our dreams. When we came back this time, it felt like returning to camp. Spending a month touring together, performing multiple concerts—our true selves came out."

The group toured four to five countries. Eed described the experience as transformative: "It was like going to scout camp. Everyone played their part, everything fell into place. Lala gained confidence, I gained confidence, Lulu gained confidence. Everything worked out perfectly. We became Pong Lang Sa On again in the era we explored together."

When recalling their first performance in Sweden, Lala said it "was chaotic." Eed added, "Lala invested heavily in costumes and accessories, but luggage became a major issue. We had three carry-ons for four people, yet still didn't have enough space. Lala loves borrowing my carry-on, leaving me with only the duty of carrying her bags. She'd stuff her friends' belongings in there too."

Lala joked, "We even had to leave extra clothes with locals on the way back. We really intended to bring everything, but our luggage might have burst or damaged. With Thai softness, we presented soft power, and when they requested items there, we provided them."

Eed recounted a shipping mishap: "Before boarding, we were over the weight limit. We had to remove one outfit, and the fan demand was overwhelming. We eventually arranged cargo shipping, but the sender got the name wrong and it never arrived. We lost thousands in shipping costs."

Regarding the Stockholm concert chaos that made headlines, Eed explained: "Stockholm was our first concert, a Songkran event. It was delayed slightly. There were Thai people and foreigners wearing Thai outfits. The crowd exceeded the venue's capacity limit. Foreigners typically cap attendance at a few thousand, but it overflowed. People couldn't leave from inside or enter from outside—it was dangerously crowded. The organizers told us we had to stop. We paused for about 45 minutes due to overcrowding issues."

When asked if this was just drama about pride in high attendance, like how free events draw massive crowds yearly, Lala responded, "We felt sad hearing that criticism. We genuinely prepared—writing scripts, creating new songs, arranging everything carefully. Our costumes were..." (text cuts off)

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Community

How Often Should Office Workers Get Eye Exams?

Office workers should get eye exams at least once yearly, especially those spending 6-8+ hours daily on screens, as undetected vision changes and digital eye strain can worsen without professional assessment.

How Often Should Office Workers Get Eye Exams?
27 Jul Khaosod

In an era where office workers spend nearly the entire day staring at screens—whether computers, phones, or tablets—eye fatigue, pain, blurred vision, and headaches after work have become something many people overlook. However, these symptoms may actually signal that you should undergo a comprehensive eye examination with an optometrist.

How often should office workers get eye exams?

Generally, office workers should have their eyes checked at least once a year, even if they have no obvious symptoms, because vision can change with age, work habits, and workplace environment. Particularly those who sit in front of screens for more than 6–8 hours daily face increased risk of digital eye strain, worsening nearsightedness, or undetected changes in astigmatism.

Why is an optometrist important for evaluation?

A visit to an optometrist is not merely about determining your prescription degree. It also involves assessing how your eyes work together, your focusing ability, and problems that may affect daily life—such as screen vision difficulties, poor night driving, blurred reading vision, or dizziness when wearing old glasses.

Warning signs that you should schedule an eye exam

For people already wearing glasses, annual check-ups are especially important, because lenses that no longer match your current prescription may force your eyes to work harder than necessary. Those who have never worn glasses but are starting to experience screen strain, frequent eye rubbing, blurry letters, or temple discomfort after work should also schedule an exam. Do not wait for symptoms to worsen before seeking care.

Benefits of annual eye exams in choosing appropriate lenses

Another reason office workers should prioritize yearly eye exams is selecting lenses suited to their lifestyle—such as lenses for screen work, anti-glare lenses, or progressive lenses for those developing age-related farsightedness. Expert guidance can improve visual comfort and reduce workplace fatigue.

Conclusion

If you are looking for an eyewear shop with professional optometrist services, understanding the optometrist's role will help you choose an eye care facility with confidence. Since your eyes are vital organs used intensively every day, regular eye exams are not a luxury but an investment in quality of life and long-term work performance.

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National

PM Anutin Says Fraud Probe Measures Underway

Authorities have launched a fraud investigation into local civil service exams after discovering mismatched score certificates and answer sheets, with plans to invalidate nearly 6,000 positions and pursue criminal charges against suspects.

PM Anutin Says Fraud Probe Measures Underway
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27 at Government House, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister discussed progress in investigating fraud in the local civil service examinations following a factual report by Deputy Prime Minister Pakorn Nílpraphan. Anutin confirmed that multiple actions are already underway, including the transfer of Local Administration Department executives, establishment of a deputy permanent secretary to investigate the case, and discovery that score certificates and answer sheets do not match. Disciplinary committees have been formed to pursue serious misconduct charges against those suspected of involvement.

Anutin stated that Pakorn was appointed to examine the facts, and authorities are cooperating with police and the National Anti-Corruption Commission to issue summonses and arrest warrants against suspects, who currently remain in custody pending prosecution. The central civil service examination committee plans to invalidate 5,924 local civil servant positions and forward cases to provincial authorities for legal action, with investigations expanding to trace financial and other connections.

When asked about the earlier directive to suspend local civil service appointments, Anutin acknowledged that the central civil service committee had independent authority to issue resolutions but added that the facts ultimately proved his position correct. He emphasized that everyone must take responsibility and stated that he had advised others to trust the Prime Minister's judgment. Regarding whether the position invalidations are sufficient, Anutin said this represents administrative action, while police, the anti-corruption commission, and Pakorn's task force with multiple agencies are handling criminal prosecution to ensure no one escapes accountability.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Police

Witness: MG Driver Hit First, Rider Knocked Down at Gas Station

A witness says an MG driver's passenger punched a motorcycle-taxi rider at a gas station near Minburi Prison after a dispute over an EV charging spot, leaving him with injuries requiring six stitches.

Witness: MG Driver Hit First, Rider Knocked Down at Gas Station
27 Jul Khaosod

A witness has recounted how an MG driver opened fire first, with a woman punching relentlessly, leaving a motorcycle-taxi rider with a broken eye. Before the incident, the rider was seen moving his bike out of an EV charging spot.

On July 26, 2025, a reporter spoke with Mr. Auto, an eyewitness to the assault on the motorcycle-taxi rider at a gas station opposite the Minburi Prison. He revealed that he saw the MG vehicle—the accused's car—parked blocking his way, preventing him from driving out. Initially, he thought the rider and the driver knew each other, as he saw both standing and talking normally for about 5 minutes, though he could not hear them.

Mr. Auto continued, explaining that before he witnessed the MG driver's woman punching the rider relentlessly, the rider tried to defend himself and fell down, but did not retaliate. At that moment, he quickly got out of his car and heard the rider say, "When did I curse you?" The rider then asked him to photograph the suspect's license plate, which he did with his mobile phone. Meanwhile, the suspect said, "Go ahead, take the photo," before getting into the car and driving away as shown in the clip.

Regarding the rider's parking, Mr. Auto said he saw the rider ride his motorcycle and park it in front of the EV charging spot, which was an empty space near the fried banana shop where he picked up an order. He saw the rider get off and pick up the order in just a moment, then return to the bike and was about to move it out.

Mr. Auto also stated that at the EV charging spot in the gas station, he saw one taxi parked waiting to charge at the spot where the rider was parked. The MG vehicle came in the opposite direction and was about to park at that same spot. He observed that the MG arrived alone—only two people, the rider and the suspect, were standing talking to each other.

Regarding the suspect's claim that the rider hit first, Mr. Auto said he clearly saw the suspect assault the rider first, while the rider only defended himself before falling down. Fortunately, he fell onto the vehicle, preventing his head from hitting the ground.

The motorcycle-taxi rider vows to pursue the matter to the end after being punched in the eye by the MG driver, requiring 6 stitches.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Cabinet Extends 7% VAT Rate for Another Year

Thailand's Cabinet approved extending the 7% VAT rate for another year through September 2026, aiming to ease living costs and boost consumer spending and business investment.

Cabinet Extends 7% VAT Rate for Another Year
27 Jul Khaosod

The Cabinet has approved in principle an extension of the value-added tax (VAT) reduction measure for an additional year, maintaining the VAT rate at 7% from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2026, to ease the burden of living costs, stimulate consumer spending, boost business confidence, and support private sector investment aligned with the country's economic goals.

Government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek revealed that the Cabinet meeting approved the draft royal decree under the Revenue Code regarding the VAT rate reduction, as proposed by the Ministry of Finance, to extend the VAT reduction measure for one more year.

Ratchada stated that the core of the measure is to extend the period of the VAT rate reduction, which was set to expire on September 30, 2025, for another year starting October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. The VAT rate will remain at 6.3 percent (excluding local taxes) or 7 percent (including local taxes) on a temporary basis for all sales of goods, services, and imports.

"Maintaining the VAT rate at 7 percent will help reduce the impact of rising living costs and stimulate consumer spending, which will strengthen business confidence in the Thai economy and allow private sector investment within the country to expand according to targets. It will also help create a favorable business environment for the private sector," Ratchada said.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Lawyer Submits Senate Election-Rigging Evidence to Prosecutors

A lawyer submitted evidence of alleged senate election-rigging to opposition MPs at parliament on July 27, urging prosecutors to fast-track the case to the Constitutional Court rather than wait for the Election Commission's 2-3 month review

Lawyer Submits Senate Election-Rigging Evidence to Prosecutors
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27, 2025 at 11:00 AM at parliament, lawyer Pattarapong Shuphaksa (known as Anun from Buriram) submitted a formal letter with evidence regarding alleged senate election-rigging to opposition MPs Phanida Mongkolswat of Samut Prakan and Phanditl Nuamchai of Bangkok, both from the opposition party.

Anun stated that the opposition party has partnered with civil society, nationwide senate candidates, and reserve senators to gather evidence of election-rigging and make it public. The case is currently under review by the Election Commission to determine whether it will be referred to the Supreme Court. He noted that the party had not been willing to take action on this matter previously, but now both sides agree that there is sufficient, linked evidence showing the conduct of the election-rigging group may constitute an attempt to overthrow democratic governance under the constitution or threaten national security under the criminal code.

Anun expressed concern that waiting for the Election Commission's decision over the next 2-3 months could be too slow. He proposed instead submitting the case to the Office of the Attorney-General to refer it to the Constitutional Court, seeking action against all those involved—from government officials to senators to civilians—under Article 49 of the constitution, or filing security-related complaints with investigators.

Anun also announced he has drafted a petition under Article 157 to hold the Election Commission accountable, to be made public on July 31.

Opposition MP Phanida acknowledged the submission and said the party would study all attached materials to determine next steps. She called on the public to pressure the Election Commission, noting that only the commission has the authority to refer election cases to court. She stated the opposition would pursue the matter fully using evidence already submitted to the Election Commission and the DSI.

Phanida appealed to all witnesses with evidence, photos, or videos related to the alleged rigging to come forward, expressing concern the case may not receive fair treatment. She noted the Election Commission must rule by September, though rumors suggest a vote may occur in early August, so the opposition is racing against time.

MP Phanditl addressed efforts to silence civil society, though his complete remarks were cut off in the original text.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

Massage Therapist Escapes Attempted Rape After Claiming HIV Status

A massage therapist in Ko Lanta escaped an attempted sexual assault on July 20 after claiming to have HIV, prompting her to file a police report a week later with CCTV footage identifying the suspect.

Massage Therapist Escapes Attempted Rape After Claiming HIV Status
27 Jul Khaosod

A massage therapist identified as Khun B reported an attempted sexual assault to police on July 27, 2026. The incident occurred on July 20 at 10 p.m. when a man aged 30–35 booked a massage appointment through a mobile app. After the therapist showed him to her private massage room on the second floor, the man feigned a need to charge his dead phone battery. When she pointed to the charger near her vanity, she noticed the battery was at 74%, exposing his deception. As she turned to leave, the man suddenly drew a 7-inch kitchen knife from his waist, held it to her throat, and demanded she remove her clothes.

The therapist quickly invented a story, claiming she had HIV and had recently given birth to a child not yet one month old, demanding he use protection. While talking to distract him, she managed to escape when the attacker briefly lowered his guard. She ran from the room and locked the door behind her, then rushed downstairs and threw a red piggy bank at the fleeing attacker before calling for help from people below.

CCTV footage from 10:42 p.m. on July 20 shows a man in a white t-shirt and black shorts entering the building with the victim. A second clip at 10:49 p.m. shows the same man fleeing down the stairs while the victim chased behind him, shouting for help. The therapist reported the incident as a cautionary tale for others in her profession and requested police apprehend the suspect to prevent future attacks.

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National

Cabinet Approves Five Regional Education Officials

The Cabinet has approved five civil servants to regional education officer positions to oversee education strategies across provincial clusters, with one candidate rejected for insufficient job tenure in their previous role.

Cabinet Approves Five Regional Education Officials
27 Jul Khaosod

On July 27, 2025, Education Minister Prasert Chantharangthong announced that the Cabinet has approved the appointment of five civil servants to senior regional education positions (Ed-Thai Regional) to implement education strategies and development plans across provincial clusters efficiently and in line with overall provincial development goals.

The five appointees are: Thatchakorn Vongpeng, promoted from Deputy Regional Education Officer (Region 3) to Regional Education Officer (Region 5); Samnakarnn Bunruang, promoted from Deputy Officer (Region 13) to Regional Officer (Region 7); Thanaphat Sangjun, promoted from Deputy Officer (Region 2) to Regional Officer (Region 8); Nirutt Botramsanlee, promoted from Deputy Officer (Region 10) to Regional Officer (Region 10); and Ekavat Losunirun, Assistant Secretary of the Education Council, appointed to Regional Officer (Region 15).

Prasert explained that only five positions were approved because one candidate lacked sufficient qualifications, particularly insufficient tenure in the previous position level. He stressed there are no internal conflicts and the process was transparent and fair. The remaining seven vacant positions will be filled gradually.

Prasert clarified that these are existing positions with budgets already allocated, not newly created posts. He emphasized the roles are open to civil servants from all agencies and do not duplicate responsibilities of educational zones or inspectorates. Regional education officers set overall education strategy for provincial clusters, while zones handle school administration and monitoring, and inspectors conduct field audits.

Regarding the Level 11 appointments to replace retiring officials, including the new Permanent Secretary of Education and the Secretary of the Vocational Education Commission, Prasert said these are still under careful review and will be submitted to Cabinet consideration in August.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Phuket Authorities Inspect Chabad House Over Licensing and Fundraising

Phuket authorities inspected the Chabad House in Patong on Sunday to verify compliance with Thai law regarding its licenses, fundraising activities and religious operations. Officials examined the building's permits, donation boxes and owne

Phuket Authorities Inspect Chabad House Over Licensing and Fundraising
27 Jul Khaosod

PHUKET — Phuket authorities inspected the Chabad House in Patong on Sunday, examining its licenses, fundraising activities, religious use and ownership structure, while emphasizing that the operation was intended to ensure compliance with Thai law without infringing on religious freedom.

The inspection on 26 July was led by Phuket Vice Governor Khettarat Chansilp, with officers from the provincial police, the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), local administrative bodies and other agencies.

Officals said the building is licensed for use as a restaurant and club. It includes a dining area with the required food establishment registration and a Type 2 liquor license, as well as spaces used for Jewish religious services, banquet functions, accommodation for religious leaders and rooftop activities.

During the inspection, authorities found donation boxes inside the building. The site's caretaker told officials that the funds are used for charitable activities. Relevant agencies have been tasked with determining whether the fundraising complies with Thai law.

Officals also confirmed that the premises are used for Jewish religious ceremonies. They said Thailand's Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, provided religious activities comply with the law and do not threaten national security, public safety or public order.

The province has also ordered an investigation into land ownership and the shareholder structure of entities linked to the property. Authorities said they will examine whether there is evidence of illegal land ownership, nominee shareholding arrangements or other violations. Legal action will be taken if any offenses are found.

Phuket authorities said the inspection is part of broader efforts to ensure businesses and organizations operate within the law while protecting the rights and freedoms guaranteed under the Constitution. They added that the same legal standards will be applied equally to all establishments.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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