Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
Tourism

Pullman Bangkok Hosts Mother's Day Buffet With Live Music

Pullman King Power Bangkok celebrates Mother's Day on August 12 with an international buffet featuring premium seafood, caviar, and carving stations, plus live music from legendary Thai band Soontaraporn. Early bird bookings by August 5 rec

Pullman Bangkok Hosts Mother's Day Buffet With Live Music
5 Aug Khaosod

Pullman King Power Bangkok is hosting a special Mother's Day celebration featuring an international buffet and live entertainment from the legendary Thai band Soontaraporn at the Infinity Ballroom. The experience runs from 11:45 AM to 2:45 PM on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, and includes premium dishes sourced globally: Alaskan crab legs, oysters, tiger prawns, a caviar station with Russian sturgeon caviar and Japanese-marinated salmon roe, fresh sushi and sashimi, authentic Thai cuisine, Chinese dishes, and a Western carving station featuring prime rib, beef Wellington, and lobster Thermidor, plus fresh pasta and risotto. Desserts include a specially crafted 2-meter vanilla and raspberry mille-feuille cake.

Package Details: • International Mother's Day Buffet: 2,990 baht net per person • Early Bird Offer (book by August 5): 30% discount, 2,093 baht net per person • Beverage Package: unlimited sparkling wine, house wine, and local beer for 950 baht net per person

Special Rates: • Children aged 6–11: 50% discount • Accor Plus members: additional 10% discount after early bird discount

The hotel invites all guests to create special memories through exquisite cuisine, timeless songs from Soontaraporn Band, and a warm celebration atmosphere as a gift to the most important woman in your life. Reserve now by calling 02-680-9999 or emailing PullmanKingPower.CuisineUnplugged@accor.com.

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National

Officials Identify Three Suspicious IPs in Data Leak Case

Three suspicious IP addresses linked to government accounts were identified in a data breach affecting Thailand's Department of Land Transport, with authorities suspecting compromised credentials or hacked accounts affected roughly 6,000 to

Officials Identify Three Suspicious IPs in Data Leak Case
5 Aug Khaosod

At a press conference at Government House on August 5, Transport Deputy Minister Siripon Angkhskulgiat disclosed that three suspicious IP addresses from government accounts have been detected in the data breach affecting the Department of Land Transport. The accounts showed abnormal data access patterns and search behavior, prompting the ministry to report the matter to the Cyber Police Office. The three suspicious IP addresses originated from Bangkok Noi District Office, Expressway Authority of Thailand, and the Thai Armed Forces, whose accounts have been temporarily suspended.

All government agencies that request data from the Transport Ministry and Department of Land Transport have been instructed to reset their passwords to clear any compromised credentials. Officials have not yet determined whether the data was accessed by legitimate account holders, stolen credentials, or hacked accounts. The complete list of suspects has been handed over to police for prosecution.

Deputy Minister Siripon assured the public that the leaked personal information is basic data that cannot be used for any financial transactions or property transfers. The ministry has blocked all access channels, though individuals with Dark Web access may still view the data being sold illegally. He emphasized that the ministry would never contact residents unsolicited or send links of any kind, and urged people not to panic as the compromised data cannot be used fraudulently without additional identity verification.

When asked about the scale of the breach, Siripon stated that abnormal searches affected approximately 6,000 to 7,000 people, with some accounts conducting around 2,000 searches. Regarding suspicions that high-profile individuals' data was specifically targeted, he noted that the unusual search behavior patterns warrant police investigation. When asked whether the breach was linked to Dark Web markets selling tokens for data access, Siripon suggested it was likely part of the operation but deferred to police to determine if political motivations were involved.

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National

Anuthit Reassures Coalition With Julpan

Prime Minister Anuthit and Pheu Thai leader Julpan publicly reassured coalition stability on August 5, dismissing speculation about realigning with other political parties through lighthearted remarks and a display of unity.

Anuthit Reassures Coalition With Julpan
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2026, at 11:55 a.m. at Government House, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anuthit Charnweerakul, in his capacity as Bhumjaithai party leader, addressed reports about the alignment of the green and red parties. Anuthit said he had not yet seen the news because he arrived home late. When asked if there was a new color mix emerging among red, green, and orange parties, the prime minister joked, "Red and green with clear ice and condensed milk sprinkled on top like this," while giving a thumbs-up gesture. When asked if he had discussed this with Pheu Thai, Anuthit pointed to Labor Minister Julpan Amornvivat, Pheu Thai party leader, standing behind him. A reporter asked whether the blue-and-red coalition still works well together without needing other colors added. Julpan replied that things are working smoothly and well-coordinated. Before walking up to Thai Khu Fah building, Anuthit gave Julpan a warm hug for the cameras.

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Weather

Phuket Boosts Flood Preparations for Monsoon Rains

Phuket officials are ramping up flood and disaster preparations as heavy monsoon rains approach, with authorities urging residents and mariners to stay alert for potential storms and landslides.

Phuket Boosts Flood Preparations for Monsoon Rains
5 Aug The Phuket News

PHUKET: Phuket officials have stepped up disaster preparedness measures ahead of forecasts of heavy rain, storms and possible landslides during the peak of the southwest monsoon, with authorities warning residents and mariners to remain on alert over the coming days.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Pushes Muay Thai Toward UNESCO World Heritage Status

Thailand has launched an international seminar on muay Thai as part of efforts to secure UNESCO World Heritage status for the martial art, with the Cabinet already approving a nomination expected for consideration in 2028. The event in Phet

Thailand Pushes Muay Thai Toward UNESCO World Heritage Status
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2025, at Rachaprachanukul School 47 in Cha-am District, Phetchaburi Province, Thiwvalrat Angkinanthon, a Phetchaburi MP from the Bhumjaithai Party and chair of parliament's Religion, Arts, and Culture Committee, opened the 2025 International Muay Thai Seminar. The event, organized by the Siam Indigenous Sports Association in collaboration with multiple network partners, aims to promote knowledge, elevate standards, and advance muay Thai to the global stage. The seminar runs from August 5–12, after which international participants will tour Thailand to stimulate the economy.

The event drew 101 foreign participants from 10 countries, alongside Thai association members, trainers, athletes, and officials, reflecting muay Thai's growing popularity worldwide and global confidence in the association's work. Participation increases each year. A highlight was Thiwvalrat performing a traditional muay Thai wai khru (teacher's salute) for attendees, drawing applause and cheers and underscoring that muay Thai is not merely a combat sport but a treasured cultural heritage of Thailand.

Thiwvalrat stated that muay Thai is more than a fighting art or sport bringing fame to Thailand—it is a cultural intellectual heritage reflecting the Thai spirit of courage, discipline, and identity recognized by nations worldwide. She emphasized the seminar's importance as a forum for knowledge exchange, developing training standards, and collectively setting guidelines to preserve muay Thai while keeping pace with modern change while maintaining its original identity and value.

The chair noted that the Cabinet approved a 2024 resolution to nominate "Muay Thai (Thai Traditional Boxing)" as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity to UNESCO, with consideration expected in 2571 (2028). Thiwvalrat pledged to fully support the registration to preserve, continue, and develop muay Thai's value in cultural, economic, and national image dimensions. She believes multi-sector cooperation will elevate muay Thai to international standards and inspire Thai youth to exercise with pride in their nation's valuable arts, passing this intellectual legacy to future generations.

Beyond seminars and knowledge exchange, foreign participants will visit Phetchaburi's important cultural heritage sites, including Wat Yai Suwan Aram.

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National

Japanese Thermos Maker Warns Against Storing Certain Drinks

Japanese thermos maker Zojirushi warns against storing milk, juice, soft drinks, and soups in insulated bottles, as these beverages can cause internal rust and damage. The company recommends gentle cleaning with soft brushes and air-drying

Japanese Thermos Maker Warns Against Storing Certain Drinks
5 Aug Khaosod

Zojirushi, a leading Japanese thermos manufacturer, has cautioned consumers not to store certain beverages in insulated water bottles for prolonged periods due to the risk of damage, corrosion, and rust. The bottles are suitable for plain water, tea, and coffee, but should not be used to store milk, fruit juice, soft drinks, or high-sodium soups such as miso soup, as these can cause internal rust, damage internal components, and reduce the thermos's ability to maintain both hot and cold temperatures.

Regarding cleaning, Zojirushi recommends avoiding steel wool, abrasive scrubbers, or rough-surfaced sponges, as these can scratch the internal coating and allow dirt and odors to accumulate easily. Additionally, if the product is not labeled as dishwasher-safe, it should not be placed in a dishwasher, as heat and water pressure may cause external paint to peel, damage components, or deform the bottle.

The company recommends four cleaning steps: (1) rinse immediately with clean water after use to reduce residue and odors; (2) remove and separately clean the cap and rubber seal; (3) use gentle dish soap with a soft sponge or bottle brush to clean the bottle and components; and (4) rinse thoroughly with clean water and air-dry completely upside down to prevent moisture buildup.

For baking soda or citric acid cleaning, Zojirushi notes that baking soda has a gentle abrasive effect and is not suitable for regular use. For rust stains or unpleasant odors, the company recommends mixing one teaspoon of citric acid with about 500 milliliters of warm water, soaking for approximately three hours, then rinsing with clean water. Watch for six warning signs that indicate the thermos should be replaced to avoid health risks.

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National

Thailand Unmoved by Cambodia's UN Maritime Map Move

Thailand's foreign minister dismissed Cambodia's UN maritime map move as nothing new, saying both countries' existing maps are already UN-recognized while arbitration proceedings over their sea boundary continue under UNCLOS rules.

Thailand Unmoved by Cambodia's UN Maritime Map Move
5 Aug Khaosod

At a government house briefing on August 5, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangkaew addressed Cambodia's plan to seek UN recognition of the 2543 MOU and the 1:200,000 scale map, stating that these documents are already UN-endorsed and represent nothing new, so Thailand has no cause for concern. The MOU includes provisions beyond just the 1:200,000 map, such as watershed issues, and Thailand possesses its own 1:50,000 scale map that both sides have acknowledged, meaning Cambodia's actions have no impact on existing UN-recorded evidence.

Regarding compulsory arbitration, Sihasak explained that both sides are currently nominating arbitrators, with six to seven names already submitted and each side to select three, a process still in progress. He emphasized that compulsory arbitration is a mechanism under UNCLOS that Thailand must follow, as the process continues regardless, and the UN will appoint Thailand's arbitrators if needed. Thailand will ensure its interests are fully protected.

Sihasak noted that Thailand has consistently maintained that bilateral negotiations should precede compulsory arbitration under UNCLOS, but Cambodia claims Thailand's cancellation of the 2544 MOU triggered the arbitration process. Thailand cancelled the 2544 MOU because it had stalled for 20 years and to initiate fresh negotiations under UNCLOS, which Cambodia only joined in March. He questioned why Cambodia did not attempt bilateral talks first, which might have created a positive atmosphere for discussing land border issues. He pointed out that at the ASEAN summit in the Philippines, both leaders discussed bilateral matters and agreed to rebuild trust and cease international attacks, yet Cambodia rejected negotiations and proceeded directly to compulsory arbitration, effectively closing the door on land border talks while continuing to attack Thailand on the world stage.

Sihasak also remarked on UN Special Rapporteur Tom Andrews' report on human rights in Cambodia, acknowledging it as routine monitoring but warning that statements attributing cross-border violations exceed the UN's mandate and must consider the sensitive Thailand-Cambodia situation, cautioning that any statement touching on Thailand will be exploited by Cambodia and human rights committees must be mindful of regional sensitivities.

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National

Cabinet Appoints Former Shin Family Bodyguard as Reform Office Director

Police Colonel Watthanyu Withayapolothai, a longtime bodyguard of the Shinawatra family, was promoted to director of Thailand's national reform office on August 5. The appointment marks his ascent from deputy director in the government's st

Cabinet Appoints Former Shin Family Bodyguard as Reform Office Director
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, the Cabinet approved the promotion of Police Colonel Watthanyu Withayapolothai, known as Phor Kor Noi, from deputy director to director of the Office for Accelerating National Reform, Strategy and National Reconciliation (ONRSA). Watthanyu is a former police bodyguard who served the Shinawatra family closely during the administrations of former Prime Ministers Thaksin Shinawatra and current Prime Minister Pita Shinawatra. He was transferred from the Royal Thai Police to the civil service in November 2024, taking the position of deputy director under the first Anutin Cabinet.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai FM Urges Chinese Ambassador to Clarify Airport Incident

Thai Deputy PM Sihasak urged China's ambassador to clarify a controversial incident at Suvarnabhumi Airport involving denied boarding of Chinese tourists and a racist gesture by a security officer, calling for diplomatic restraint to avoid

Thai FM Urges Chinese Ambassador to Clarify Airport Incident
5 Aug Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow on Wednesday said the Chinese ambassador to Thailand should help explain the controversy surrounding Chinese tourists at Suvarnabhumi Airport and avoid making statements that deepen public tensions.

Speaking at Government House on August 5, Sihasak said he had previously discussed similar incidents with the Chinese ambassador, describing them as highly sensitive issues requiring careful diplomatic handling.

"The ambassador should come forward to explain the situation, not simply defend China's interests, but also help build understanding," Sihasak said. "The ambassador is stationed in Thailand. The primary duty is to promote relations between our two countries and foster mutual understanding between our peoples."

The remarks came after approximately 20 Chinese passengers were denied boarding at Suvarnabhumi Airport. The incident drew increased public attention after video footage emerged showing a Thai airport security officer making a racist gesture.

Sihasak stressed that diplomats must be mindful of their role when addressing such disputes. "Therefore, any public statements by the ambassador must take that responsibility into account and should not add to the current tensions," he said. "I believe the ambassador understands this."

He added that the same principle applies to Thai diplomats serving abroad. "The Thai ambassador in China must also work to preserve good relations between our countries," he said.

Sihasak said Thailand must continue enforcing its immigration regulations while ensuring visitors have a positive experience, emphasizing that authorities should strike a balance between law enforcement and maintaining the country's image as a welcoming destination.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Army Clarifies Bunker Construction Is Tactical Defense, Not Budget Project

The Thai Army defended bunker construction in Trat's border region as tactical defense infrastructure, rejecting claims it was a misuse of budget funds, and called on parliament to verify facts before releasing statements.

Army Clarifies Bunker Construction Is Tactical Defense, Not Budget Project
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2569, Army spokesman Lieutenant General Windhai Suvaree responded to parliamentary members who publicly released images of military bunkers in Trat's border region. The Army stated that preliminary investigation shows the bunkers are part of tactical development and strategic base improvements conducted before the second confrontation, encompassing barriers, communication centers, and survival infrastructure essential for battlefield operations—standard tactical doctrine across all armed forces.

Regarding budget concerns, the Army spokesman clarified that allocated funds support comprehensive base readiness and modernization, not bunker construction exclusively. He warned that presenting the budget as earmarked specifically for bunkers could create public misunderstanding. The spokesman called on the military committee to follow proper governmental procedures and consult relevant agencies before releasing information, to prevent public mistrust.

He acknowledged that public concern for soldier safety is commendable, but expressed concern that rushing to conclusions without verifying facts might appear to unfairly target the military. The Army confirmed it respects public interest in troop safety and welcomes constructive recommendations. The spokesman urged the parliamentary military committee to follow its established fact-checking procedures, hold meetings with all stakeholders, and thoroughly verify information before reaching conclusions and releasing statements to the public.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Thai Housing Bank Pushes Freelancer Loans Despite Debt-Strike Calls

Thai Housing Bank is expanding loans to freelancers and dismisses debt-strike concerns, citing rigorous borrower vetting and restructuring options for those facing hardship. The bank approved 123 billion baht in new lending in the first hal

Thai Housing Bank Pushes Freelancer Loans Despite Debt-Strike Calls
5 Aug Khaosod

The Government Housing Bank (GHB) has dismissed concerns about online campaigns promoting debt strikes, stating that housing loans are not vulnerable to such movements due to careful vetting of borrowers' repayment capacity before approval. GHB President Mahattana Ampornpisiṭ emphasized that the bank's housing loans are fundamentally different from personal loans, which are at the center of the current debt-strike debate, because housing loans involve thorough assessment of borrowers' ability to repay before approval, ensuring that borrowers genuinely intend to purchase homes. If customers face economic hardship or reduced income and begin to struggle with payments, the bank offers early intervention through debt restructuring, settlement negotiations, extended loan terms, and adjusted installments. The bank is also deploying digital systems, dashboards, and data analytics to monitor credit quality closely and reduce non-performing loan (NPL) risk.

In the first half of 2025, GHB approved 123,149.93 million baht in new lending, a 14.85% increase from the same period last year, representing 49.9% of the full-year target of 246,795 million baht. Housing loans of up to 3 million baht accounted for 58,685 cases, up 7.39%. The bank's NPL ratio stood at 5.54%, with a Coverage Ratio of 150.76% and a BIS Ratio of 15.47%, both exceeding Thai central bank standards and reflecting strong financial health.

Although the real estate sector faces challenges, the bank believes the market has reached its low point and will gradually recover in the second half. The bank maintains its full-year lending target of 246,795 million baht and is expanding credit access for freelancers and self-employed professionals, targeting over 10,000 million baht in loans to this group through Credit Scoring, AI Credit Assessment, and Alternative Data methods. Homes priced below 3 million baht remain the primary market, accounting for over 80% of new lending, with the average loan per borrower declining to 1.07 million baht, reflecting the bank's focus on helping low- and middle-income earners own homes.

The bank is also extending its reduction in transfer fees and mortgage registration fees for another year to stimulate home purchases and support the real estate sector. In addition, GHB is supporting the government's clean energy policy through sustainable lending (Green Loan & ESG), including cool-home loans, Number 5 homes, and Solar Roof loans. Existing customers receive a fixed 1% interest rate for three years, while new customers start at 0.99%, to promote solar power installation, reduce electricity costs, and increase clean energy use in households.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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