Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Thailand Launches Digital Welfare System in Roi Et Province

Thailand launched the "PSD.CARE" digital welfare system in Roi Et province, enabling citizens to access social services and disability support through smartphones while eliminating paperwork. The initiative combines state databases with mob

Thailand Launches Digital Welfare System in Roi Et Province
18 Jul Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister Yuthasak Sasiprapa and Social Development Minister Nikhom Somklang led a delegation of digital innovation and social welfare services to Roi Et province on July 18, 2026, promoting the "PSD.CARE" system. Yuthasak presided over the opening of an initiative titled "Mobile Outreach Service Project for Access to Rights and Career Enhancement for People with Disabilities, Roi Et Province, Fiscal Year 2569," held under the banner "PSD.CARE Roi Et at Your Doorstep... Prompt and Attentive to Every Right."

Social Development Minister Nikhom Somklang led the welfare services team, alongside Roi Et's provincial governor, senior ministry officials, and government representatives. The event attracted over 500 residents, including local people who set up stalls and prepared ceremonial drums to welcome the delegation in festive celebration. Both officials participated in traditional folk dancing with locals.

Minister Nikhom emphasized the ministry's commitment to reducing social inequality by improving quality of life for people with disabilities and vulnerable groups. The centerpiece is "PSD.CARE" (Care, Access, Response, e-Service), a digital innovation linking state databases with the ThaiD application and the "ThaiGov" app. This technology streamlines processes, eliminates paperwork, and reduces processing time, allowing citizens to request assistance via smartphone, track status in real-time, and access welfare services transparently and efficiently.

Beyond digital innovation, the mobile outreach team provided direct services including medical care and rehabilitation support. Expert trainers delivered vocational skills training to help residents achieve self-sufficiency. The event included allocating community organization budgets for Roi Et, distributing welfare payments to vulnerable groups, issuing disability identification cards, organizing occupational knowledge exhibitions, and providing comprehensive counseling services.

Yuthasak stated that the government is committed to reducing social inequality, ensuring all groups, especially vulnerable populations, have equal and universal access to state rights and welfare. The Social Development Ministry concretely addressed this through the "PSD.CARE" digital system as the primary mechanism for service delivery.

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National

Thailand's Repeated Nightclub Fire Tragedies Demand Real Action

Over 30 people died in Bangkok's Ladprao beer hall fire, the third major nightclub tragedy in Thailand, despite repeated promises to prevent such disasters through better fire safety enforcement.

Thailand's Repeated Nightclub Fire Tragedies Demand Real Action
18 Jul Khaosod

The Ladprao beer hall fire tragedy, which claimed over 30 lives, marks the third such disaster at entertainment venues—following Santitham Pub and Mountain B. Each incident has prompted post-mortems and solutions, yet preventable tragedies keep recurring, leaving many skeptical this will be the last.

The pattern is disturbingly repetitive: easily ignitable materials, faulty fire escapes, poor access routes, and non-functional warning systems. Adding to the absurdity, the venue was classified as a restaurant rather than an entertainment space, limiting regulatory oversight—even though it operates as a live-music bar serving drinks until 2 a.m. daily. Officials somehow overlooked these obvious contradictions.

What gives hope is that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who oversees the Interior Ministry and Bangkok administration and influences the national police, has raised concerns about legal gaps and zoning issues. When leadership at this level identifies problems, they have the power to act—not merely criticize from the sidelines. Anutin controls the Interior Ministry, oversees Bangkok, and influences police policy. This is an opportunity to push legal and regulatory changes as aggressively as recent cannabis liberalization efforts, delivering swift results.

Hoping this tragedy finally triggers action—not another cycle of post-mortems and hollow lessons learned.

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National

Thailand Approves New Pension Formula for Fairer Retirement Benefits

Thailand's cabinet approved a new "CARE" pension formula that calculates retirement benefits based on lifetime average earnings instead of final-year wages, aiming to reduce inequality and ensure fairer payouts for all contributors.

Thailand Approves New Pension Formula for Fairer Retirement Benefits
18 Jul Khaosod

The cabinet has approved the Labor Ministry's proposal to introduce a new retirement pension calculation system called the "CARE" formula (Career Average Revalued Earnings), marking a welcome step toward a fairer and more transparent pension system. The core change replaces the previous method of using the final 60 months of wages with a calculation based on average earnings across the entire contribution period, with historical wages adjusted to present-day values to better reflect lifetime income and reduce inequality caused by late-career salary shifts. The reform affects multiple groups: contributors with fewer than 12 months of payments will now receive a pension instead of only a refund of their own contributions, while those with over 180 months of service will see benefits calculated at 0.125% per month based on actual contributions, eliminating unfair rounding that previously occurred. Current pensioners will receive increases in their next payment, though anyone whose benefit would decrease under the new formula will continue receiving their current amount for life. Sections 33 and 39 contributors have requested further adjustments, arguing they have lost expected benefits that should reflect their full contributions to the social security fund. The Labor Ministry will submit the draft regulation to the Office of the Council of State for review before publication in the Royal Gazette, becoming effective 180 days after posting. This reform represents a major step toward ensuring sustainable, fair, and secure retirement income for all contributors. The article also invites all contributors to register online and vote for social security committee members by July 20 to participate in fund management and benefit determinations.

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Police

Man Dies After Falling From Truck During Dispute

A 39-year-old truck driver died after falling under a semi-trailer truck during a dispute over a minor collision in Samut Sakhon province on July 18. The truck's 58-year-old driver is under investigation after allegedly driving away while t

Man Dies After Falling From Truck During Dispute
18 Jul Khaosod

A 39-year-old truck driver died after falling under the wheels of a 22-wheel semi-trailer truck on July 18, 2025, at 12:30 p.m. on Liang Khlong Karai Road in Krathumban district, Samut Sakhon province. Police Lieutenant Prawit Krongsiri, the investigating deputy superintendent of Krathumban station, responded to reports of a man crushed by a semi-trailer truck. Officers coordinated with Krathumban Hospital and rescue units from the Ruam Katanyoo Foundation to the scene, where they found the 39-year-old victim with severe lower-body injuries from being run over. A 22-wheel semi-trailer truck was parked nearby with blood marks on the rear-right wheel and a detached right-front bumper guard on the road. The driver, 58-year-old Atit from Krabi, was detained for investigation.

Atit stated that he had parked at a red light to wait for a truck reversal when the victim, another truck driver parked nearby, climbed down and accused him of rear-ending him and damaging his plastic bumper. Atit denied the collision, which led to a confrontation. The victim climbed to the truck door to retrieve the ignition keys, but Atit grabbed them first. The victim then hung onto the window and kicked the mudguard near the wheels. Atit said he twisted the key and drove off immediately to seek police or security help at his company because he feared being attacked.

"During the drive, I knew the victim was holding onto the truck," Atit explained. "I kept driving, but he wouldn't stay still. He tried to climb toward me and kicked the mudguard by the wheels until it broke off as you can see. In the end, he fell and was run over by the rear wheels."

Police have transported the victim's body to the hospital and launched an investigation into the true cause of the incident. They expressed skepticism about the truck driver's one-sided account, noting that public service facilities were available along the route where he could have stopped to request help.

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National

Bangkok Man's Parking TikTok Channel Goes Viral

A Bangkok man's TikTok livestream showing real-time parking availability at BTS Mo Chit has gone viral with over 1 million views, helping thousands of commuters find spots during morning rush hours.

Bangkok Man's Parking TikTok Channel Goes Viral
18 Jul Khaosod

A Bangkok man has gone viral after launching a TikTok channel that helps commuters find vacant parking spaces at the BTS Mo Chit Park and Ride, with viewers crediting the livestream for helping them secure parking during the morning rush.

The TikTok account, @mochitwangpao, or "Wang Pao" ("Vacant?"), has attracted more than 1 million views by livestreaming a bird's-eye view of the parking area. The channel currently has around 3,100 followers and regularly broadcasts live from 7:30 am to 9:00 am, Monday through Thursday, when demand for parking is at its highest.

Using a fixed camera overlooking the car park, the livestream provides drivers with a real-time view of available spaces, allowing them to quickly spot empty bays before entering the facility. Although the concept is simple, many commuters say it has made finding parking significantly easier during busy weekday mornings.

The channel has also shared videos of grateful drivers celebrating after successfully finding parking spaces with the livestream's help, including one motorist who performed a dance of thanks during the live broadcast, drawing laughter from viewers.

The idea has been widely praised on social media, with users applauding the creator for using technology to solve a common commuting problem without seeking anything in return. Many commenters described the project as an innovative community service, while others suggested the idea could be expanded into a subscription-based business.

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National

Thai PM Meets Chinese Tech Giants to Attract EV and AI Investment

Thai PM met with major Chinese tech and automotive companies in China to discuss expanding investments in electric vehicles and AI manufacturing, with firms like Xiaomi and ChangAn Automobile planning significant R&D and production operatio

Thai PM Meets Chinese Tech Giants to Attract EV and AI Investment
18 Jul Khaosod

On July 18, Prime Minister Anuthol Chaoyaviriyakul and the Interior Minister held one-on-one discussions with leading Chinese private companies including Xiaomi Corporation, ChangAn Automobile, Innolight Technology, and Eoptolink Technology at the Tianfu International Convention in Chengdu, China.

According to government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek, the Chinese companies expressed strong interest in expanding their investments in Thailand, recognizing the country's competitive advantages. The Prime Minister noted that Thailand's appeal lies in its geographic location as ASEAN's central hub, robust infrastructure, clean energy systems, skilled workforce, and government facilitation through programs like Thailand FastPass and BOI incentives. Several companies already operating in Thailand plan to expand further, while others looking to diversify outside China have shown interest in Thai investments.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of research and development, technology transfer, and human resource development. All companies agreed that investment extends beyond factory establishment to include R&D and skill-building initiatives. This aligns with IMF findings that Thailand ranks among the world's top four manufacturing bases for AI industries and participates in global supply chains.

Xiaomi Corporation, represented by Vice President and CFO LAM Alain, produces smart devices, IoT products, and electric vehicles, with plans to establish an R&D center for EV design serving the ASEAN region from Thailand. ChangAn Automobile, one of China's four largest automakers, has selected Thailand's Rayong province as its first overseas EV manufacturing base to produce right-hand-drive vehicles for ASEAN and global markets, and is establishing a regional business office.

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National

Thailand Opens BOI Office in Chengdu to Attract Quality Investment

Thailand opened a Board of Investment office in Chengdu on July 18 to attract quality investment in semiconductors, AI, and electric vehicles from China's Sichuan Province. Prime Minister Anutin led over 150 Thai business leaders to the ina

Thailand Opens BOI Office in Chengdu to Attract Quality Investment
18 Jul Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin led over 150 Thai private sector representatives to Chengdu to officially open the BOI office, serving as a gateway to attract quality investment in semiconductors, AI, and electric vehicles to boost Thailand's economic value. On July 18, 2025, PM Anutin, accompanied by deputy prime ministers, ministers, and Thai government and business leaders, formally inaugurated the BOI Chengdu office. The Prime Minister also presided over the opening keynote of the Thailand–China (Sichuan) Investment and Economic Forum at the Tianfu International Convention Center in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, attended by over 750 participants including Sichuan Governor Xiao Lian and senior Chinese officials.

At the forum, the Prime Minister stated that opening the BOI office in Chengdu demonstrates the government's commitment to elevate trade and investment with China and Sichuan Province. Trade and investment between Thailand and Sichuan have grown steadily. By combining Sichuan's strengths—its long history, dynamic economy, and ranking as China's fifth-largest economy—with Thailand's advantages, including its central ASEAN location, robust infrastructure, clean energy, skilled workforce, and strong supply chains in vehicles and electronics, the partnership can be significantly strengthened.

The Prime Minister affirmed that the Thai government aims to create a rapid, quality, and stable investment environment through three key policies: accelerating and facilitating investment projects via the Thailand FastPass mechanism, upgrading entrepreneurship and developing skilled personnel, and strengthening the domestic economy alongside foreign investment. The BOI Chengdu office will serve as a critical mechanism connecting Thailand with investors in Sichuan and Chongqing, advancing bilateral trade and investment toward shared prosperity and sustainability.

Sichuan Governor Xiao Lian stated that Thailand and China are neighbors, friends, and good partners, and should transform this friendship into economic driving force. Thailand excels in vehicles, agriculture, and food, while Sichuan is distinguished in resources, electronics, and energy. Sichuan is ready to promote cooperation in education, science, technology, innovation, culture, and tourism.

The Prime Minister led over 150 Thai private sector leaders from more than 40 companies on this mission, marking the largest private sector delegation accompanying a Thai government delegation abroad. Participants included representatives from the Thai Chamber of Commerce, Thai-Chinese Chamber of Commerce, and executives from energy, food and agriculture, health and wellness, chemicals, automotive parts, industrial estates, and financial institutions, creating opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties.

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Regional

Man Praised for Freeing Sea Turtle From Fishing Net

A man freed a sea turtle tangled in discarded fishing net at Phuket's Layan Beach and released it safely back to sea, sparking calls for action against marine pollution.

Man Praised for Freeing Sea Turtle From Fishing Net
18 Jul Khaosod

PHUKET — A man has been widely praised after rescuing a sea turtle trapped in a discarded fishing net at Layan Beach in Phuket, before safely releasing the animal back into the sea. The heartwarming rescue was shared on 18 July 2026 by the local Facebook page, which posted photos showing the man carefully removing the tangled net from the turtle's body and flippers. The turtle had become entangled in the debris and was unable to move normally after washing ashore at Layan Beach in Choeng Thale subdistrict, Thalang district.

Witnesses watched as the man patiently worked for an extended period to untangle the net without injuring the animal. Once the net had been completely removed, he carried the turtle back to the shoreline and released it into the sea. According to the Facebook post, the turtle appeared to respond to the rescue before quickly making its way back into the water, leaving onlookers impressed by the emotional moment.

The rescue has drawn widespread praise on social media, with many users calling for greater efforts to reduce marine litter and prevent discarded fishing gear from entering the ocean. Environmental advocates have long warned that abandoned nets and ropes pose a serious threat to endangered sea turtles and other marine life, which can become trapped, injured or killed after becoming entangled in the debris.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Police

Border Guards Seize Smuggled Avocados Worth Nearly 3 Tons

Border guards seized nearly 3 tons of smuggled avocados from a pickup truck on Highway 3015 in Mukdahan province after stopping the driver attempting to enter Thailand without customs documentation.

Border Guards Seize Smuggled Avocados Worth Nearly 3 Tons
18 Jul Khaosod

On July 18, 2016, officers from the 2103rd Ranger Company Special Operations Unit and other security agencies conducted border interception operations along Highway 3015 in Bang Sarai Noi subdistrict, Mueang Hoa Wai district, Mukdahan province, to prevent illegal goods from entering the country without customs documentation. Acting on a tip-off about contraband avocados being smuggled in, authorities set up surveillance and successfully stopped a modified gray Isuzu pickup truck (license plate YM 623, Chiang Mai) with metal cage modifications. The driver, 35-year-old Thanadol from Mueang Lampoon district, was apprehended. An inspection of the vehicle revealed 100 crates of avocados weighing approximately 2,700 kilograms, all lacking proper customs clearance. The goods were seized and the driver was transferred to Mukdahan Customs for legal proceedings. Officials stated they will continue stepping up patrols and enforcement operations along the border to prevent tax evasion and protect the country's economic interests.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Police Launch Criminal Cases Against 5,924 Exam Cheaters

Police will file criminal charges against 5,924 people who scored suspiciously on local government exams, coordinating with anti-corruption agencies across Thailand's Southern and Central regions.

Police Launch Criminal Cases Against 5,924 Exam Cheaters
18 Jul Khaosod

The Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) has outlined its approach to the local government exam fraud case, which will result in criminal charges against 5,924 test-takers with anomalous scores. CIB commander Pol. Lt. Gen. Natthashak Chaowasnasai revealed that the bureau received direct orders from Prime Minister Anuwit Chanyaveerrakul and the Interior Ministry to conduct a rigorous investigation, coordinating with the National Police Office, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), and the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission (PACC).

Currently, the CIB has preliminary databases on suspects with activity detected in the Southern and Central regions. For the critical issue of 5,924 candidates with abnormal scores, Chaowasnasai stated that police possess initial data from an inspection team but must await formal administrative measures from the Interior Ministry revoking their eligibility before proceeding with criminal action.

Regarding prosecution strategy, some disqualified candidates may choose to provide direct testimony to the NACC. Those who provide useful information could be retained as witnesses, while those with solid evidence of intentionally paying bribes will face criminal charges as suspects. Since most offenders involve government officials, the primary case falls under NACC jurisdiction. The CIB has assigned experienced officers to assist NACC investigators formally. By late July, the CIB expects to submit a comprehensive progress report, and if evidence gathering is complete, investigators will expand the case to target masterminds.

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Police

Authorities Bust Foreign-Owned Real Estate Scheme in Chonburi

Thai authorities dismantled a foreign-owned real estate scheme in Chonburi using nominee shareholders and shell companies to illegally control and resell luxury properties online. Investigators raided 33 companies and issued arrest warrants

Authorities Bust Foreign-Owned Real Estate Scheme in Chonburi
18 Jul Khaosod

Thailand's Commerce Ministry, Immigration Bureau, and National Police launched a major crackdown on July 17, 2569, targeting luxury real estate businesses in Bangsaen, Chonburi province, to dismantle a foreign investment network using nominees and shell companies to illegally hold and resell residential properties online through share transfers. Commerce Department Director Poonpong Naiyanapakon revealed that authorities conducted searches on 33 companies, issuing four arrest warrants and 41 search warrants. Investigators found that the companies were structured with Thai nationals as nominee shareholders on behalf of foreigners, allowing foreign entities to control multiple properties and lease them out, circumventing Thai foreign business laws. Preliminary findings identified 14 companies holding land titles, established as foreign communities in luxury housing projects, with property transfers occurring through successive share changes rather than proper legal sales. Authorities examined company accounting records, financial trails, and questioned witnesses while verifying work permits and residency documents; initial evidence suggests operations were conducted under guidance from accounting and law firms. In Chonburi province, 76,752 registered companies exist (as of July 15, 2569), with deep investigation revealing 6,086 companies holding real estate with foreign investment, including 4,844 companies (79.59%) with 0.01-49% foreign stake, 212 companies (3.48%) with 49.01-99.99% foreign stake, and 1,030 companies (16.93%) with 100% foreign ownership. The Commerce Department stressed that foreign investors, particularly those holding 50 percent or more company shares—legally classified as foreigners—must comply with the Foreign Business Act, with certain restricted businesses listed in Schedule One.

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