Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Thailand's July Inflation Rises 1.95% Amid Oil Price Concerns

Thailand's July inflation rose 1.95% year-on-year, slowing from June but driven by elevated fuel prices tied to Middle East tensions and higher food costs, with August expected to remain inflationary due to sustained oil price pressures.

Thailand's July Inflation Rises 1.95% Amid Oil Price Concerns
5 Aug Khaosod

Nanthapon Jirawalesspong, director of the Ministry of Commerce's trade policy and strategy office, announced that Thailand's general consumer price index for July 2025 stood at 102.10, representing a 1.95% year-on-year increase. The rise marks a slowdown from June's 2.42% but remains continuously positive due to domestic fuel prices staying elevated compared to the previous year, driven by ongoing Middle East conflicts that push public transportation costs higher. Processed food prices have risen broadly and significantly, with some food ingredients gradually increasing, while fresh vegetables are higher than last year due to low base prices and weak El Niño effects.

The 1.95% inflation comprised a 1.88% rise in non-food and beverage categories, driven by elevated domestic fuel prices, public transport fares, and international airfares, alongside a 2.04% increase in food and non-alcoholic beverages from higher prices in items like pre-cooked meals, fresh vegetables, rice, and eggs. Energy prices moderated month-on-month—gasohol dropped from 37–38 baht per liter to 36.16 baht, while diesel fell 3.33% from 39.31 to 35.98 baht per liter.

Core inflation (excluding fresh food and energy) accelerated to 1.34% from 1.23% in June, while the seven-month average (January–July 2025) rose 1.21% year-over-year. Nanthapon warned that August inflation is expected to remain positive due to sustained high fuel prices from continued Middle East tensions and new military operations, persistently elevated food prices with broad menu increases, rising transportation costs, and fresh vegetable prices higher than the prior year. Offsetting pressures include slightly lower electricity rates and declining fresh fruit prices from ample supply. The Ministry maintains its 2025 inflation forecast at 1.5–2.5%.

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National

Parliament Health Committee Probes Doctorready App Data Errors

Parliament's health committee is investigating widespread data errors in the Doctorready medical app, including incorrect treatment records and medication histories affecting patients since 2561. The Public Health Ministry has two weeks to

Parliament Health Committee Probes Doctorready App Data Errors
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2569, at Parliament, Sakoltee Patthiyakul, a Democrat Party list MP and vice chair of the parliamentary health committee, received complaints from affected patients regarding inaccurate medical data in the Doctorready app system. The complaints cover incorrect treatment records, health screening information, disease diagnoses, and medication histories, with some cases involving billing and medication charges dating back since 2561 to the present.

Sakoltee stated that the committee will invite affected patients to testify and will also summon Public Health Minister Pattana Prompattanapanit for information. The Public Health Ministry indicated a two-week investigation period, with further clarity expected at the committee meeting on August 27.

"This problem has damaged public trust in the government, and we must find whoever is responsible, whether the data entry errors were intentional or not," Sakoltee said.

Raphasit Phattarasiraichaisin, vice chair of the Justice Recovery Foundation, stated that patients have been harmed by erroneous data in both the Doctorready app and government systems. The foundation previously filed complaints with the Public Health Ministry and is now bringing additional complaints to the health committee to investigate all related dimensions, including inviting the Public Health Minister, permanent secretary, public health officials, the app developers, and the Personal Data Protection Committee to clarify their roles.

One affected patient reported that after the incident, his mother was threatened by hospital staff over the phone to prevent him from filing a case or making complaints, causing the family to fear for their safety.

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Regional

Power Plant Launches Rayong Zero Food Waste Initiative

BLCP Power Plant launched the Rayong Zero Food Waste 2026 initiative using black soldier fly larvae to convert organic waste into fertilizer and animal feed, advancing the province toward a circular economy.

Power Plant Launches Rayong Zero Food Waste Initiative
5 Aug Khaosod

BLCP Power Plant is spearheading the Rayong Zero Food Waste 2026 project at the Knowledge & Experience Expo, joining forces with government agencies, local authorities, and communities to transition Rayong toward a low-carbon economy. The initiative showcases innovative waste management techniques, including the use of black soldier fly larvae (BSF) to process food waste and converting leaf scraps into soil to reduce municipal landfill burdens. The goal is to advance the province toward a low-carbon, circular economy through knowledge-sharing seminars titled "Rayong Without Waste: Transforming Garbage into Resources for Sustainable Environment."

The event was presided over by Deputy Governor Kalachai Thepwarchai, alongside representatives from government, private sector, and community members. Adisor Wangmoon, BLCP Power's Director of Administration and Corporate Relations, explained that the initiative began as a solution to manage leaf waste from the power plant's grounds. The team then expanded into food waste management after the plant's cafeteria, which serves 300–1,000 employees daily during maintenance periods, generated significant organic waste. After studying waste management centers in Bangkok for over a year, they discovered black soldier fly larvae, which are five times more efficient than earthworms at decomposing organic matter, processing up to 2.5 kilograms of food waste in just 12 hours while eliminating odor and producing no disease risk.

The BSF larvae produce valuable byproducts: their manure is processed into organic fertilizer for agriculture, while the larvae themselves serve as protein sources for animal feed including chickens and fish, and are being developed into dog treats. With support from Mab Tapud municipality, the team has expanded to produce feed for dogs, chickens, and cats, and plans to open a learning center for public visits. This circular economy approach transforms waste into economically, socially, and environmentally valuable resources, with the environmental expertise now being shared across government and local agencies.

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National

Thailand Names 50 Government Agencies for Social Media Excellence

Thailand's government recognized 50 agencies for excellence in social media communication, evaluated on public trust, relevance, consistency and responsiveness over a 12-month period ending June 2026.

Thailand Names 50 Government Agencies for Social Media Excellence
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2026, WiseSite (Thailand) Ltd., organizer of the Thailand Social Government Awards, announced the names of 50 government agencies recognized as 'Outstanding Government Entity on Social Media' for exemplary communication on social platforms.

The awards program developed a 'Social Metric for Government' framework based on the concept of public trust in government institutions (Public Trust) to promote and establish social media communication standards across the public sector. The evaluation criteria encompassed three key dimensions: relevance and alignment with institutional mission (Relevance), consistency in communication (Consistency), and appropriate responsiveness (Responsiveness).

Statistical data were collected from primary social media platforms used by government agencies covering more than 300 entities over a 12-month period from July 1, 2025 to June 30, 2026. More than 50 key factors were analyzed to ensure comprehensive measurement criteria. A diverse committee of advisors and judges from various fields conducted final deliberation to identify 50 government agencies that demonstrated outstanding and complete performance.

The awards serve not only to honor excellence but also represent a crucial step in establishing modern-era government communication practices and building sustainable relationships and public trust. As society faces rapid misinformation and disinformation, government social media platforms have become the frontline for delivering accurate and reliable information.

Fifty winning agencies include the Department of Internal Trade, Department of Community Development, Department of Medical Services, Disease Control Department, Department of Meteorology, Department of Business Development, Fine Arts Department, Department of International Trade Promotion, Department of Cultural Promotion, Department of Industrial Promotion, the ministries of Defense, Finance, Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Sports, Social Development and Human Security, Higher Education/Science/Research and Innovation, Commerce, Culture, and Public Health, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, Army, Air Force, Navy, and various military and police command bodies.

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Community

Woman Seeks Lottery Luck at Revered Buddha Statue

A 60-year-old woman from Chaiyaphum drew lottery numbers at the revered 30-meter Luang Pho Somhuang Buddha statue in Nakhon Pathom, where she regularly visits seeking blessings for family safety and lottery luck.

Woman Seeks Lottery Luck at Revered Buddha Statue
5 Aug Khaosod

At Wat Klang Bang Phra in Nakhon Pathom, devotees gathered on August 5, 2025, to pay respects and make merit at the sacred Luang Pho Somhuang Buddha image, a 30-meter-tall statue revered by both Thais and foreigners. The serene temple atmosphere was filled with worshippers seeking blessings for business success, property sales, family matters, and career advancement, with many reporting fulfilling their wishes. Devotees brought offerings of eggs and fruit to present to the Buddha statue, then climbed up to touch its hand before descending to receive blessings at an outdoor blessing point, concluding with the ringing of a victory bell. Nang Malay Jongvisudjai, 60, a devotee from Chaiyaphum, shared that she regularly visits Luang Pho Somhuang and frequently wins the lottery after requesting blessings. This time she drew numbers 6, 2, and 5 from an egg lottery, and also prayed for her family's safety and success in life, asking the sacred image to protect them from the dangers and crime she sees in today's world.

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National

Actress Mai Charoenpura to Hold Press Conference Aug 6

Actress Mai Charoenpura will hold a press conference August 6 to address false Facebook posts damaging her reputation, appearing with her mother and manager to discuss legal action against those responsible.

Actress Mai Charoenpura to Hold Press Conference Aug 6
5 Aug Khaosod

Actress and singer Mai Charoenpura has scheduled a press conference for August 6 to address false Facebook posts that have seriously damaged her reputation and public image. Her personal manager previously demanded removal of the posts, images, and shares, threatening legal action against those responsible. Public figure Bin Banlueruedee went live to defend Mai, confirming that her mother does not live in a nursing home and emphasizing that Mai is an exemplary daughter who has always cared for her mother properly. He described the false reports as a severe emotional attack that has created public misunderstanding. Mai will hold a press conference on Thursday, August 6, 2025, at 3 p.m., appearing with her mother Vibhakorn Sontikul and her personal manager to present all facts and discuss legal action taken in response to the incident, ensuring the public receives accurate information.

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National

Reform Advocates Sue to Restore Social Insurance Board Elections

Thai Social Insurance reform advocates sued to force elections scheduled for September 27, 2025, after the election commission indefinitely postponed balloting despite 70 percent of procedures being complete.

Reform Advocates Sue to Restore Social Insurance Board Elections
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2025, the Thai Social Insurance Reform Team, led by Sathsathum Thammabusadee, filed suit at the Central Administrative Court to annul the postponement of Social Insurance Board elections and to order the elections proceed as originally scheduled on September 27, 2025, with voting open to all eligible members without mandatory advance registration.

Thammabusadee argued that the administrative court's ruling only suspended the advance registration requirement, not the entire election process. However, the Social Insurance Election Commission has stalled all proceedings, which he characterizes as acting beyond the court's mandate and misusing the court order as a pretext to obstruct insurance reform.

He suggested that the indefinite postponement may reflect political strategy by power networks within the Labor Ministry attempting to delay restoration of members' authority. The previous board's term expired in February, yet delays have left the fund adrift for over five months without active leadership—an abnormal state, as balloting should have occurred in May and a new board should already be in place. Despite 70 percent of election procedures already completed, only the ballot casting remains, yet the commission continues to exceed its authority.

The reform team called on Labor Minister Julapan Amornwivat to proceed with elections as scheduled if he genuinely intends to reform the insurance system as promised, and to prevent the old power faction from distorting information. They emphasized that the Social Insurance Office possesses sufficient budget, personnel, and readiness to conduct the September 27 election as planned, thereby restoring democratic process to the fund and reassuring over 10 million members.

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Police

Police Officer Accused Of Coercing Sex Videos, Selling To Underground Groups

A Songkhla police officer is accused of coercing more than 20 women into filming explicit videos sold to underground groups, with victims alleging he had backing from superiors and threatened them to withdraw complaints.

Police Officer Accused Of Coercing Sex Videos, Selling To Underground Groups
5 Aug Khaosod

On August 5, 2569, a group of female victims brought evidence to seek help from Colonel Dr. Thanakrit Chitaririyarat, chairman of the Thanakrit Law Group, after alleging a police officer from the investigation unit in Songkhla province threatened and forced them to film explicit videos sold to underground groups. The victims claim the officer had backing from his superiors, with more than 20 people affected.

One victim, identified as Ms. A, an ex-girlfriend of the officer, revealed she was forced into a two-year relationship after being secretly filmed. Throughout their time together, she was filmed during intimate moments, which she tried to delete. When she accessed the officer's phone, she discovered he frequently filmed women. On May 31, the officer was involved in a car accident where approximately 10 mobile phones and various drugs including methamphetamine and crystal methamphetamine spilled out. Ms. A managed to retrieve one phone, which contained explicit videos of numerous women, with the youngest victim being only 4 years old. She then traced all the victims in the footage before filing a report on June 2.

According to Ms. A, the police station opened an investigation on June 4 and reassigned the officer to Songkhla Provincial Police for only three days before he returned to his original position. She claims he has threatened victims to withdraw their complaints, warning he would take action against their homes, and he continues performing his duties normally.

Coordinator Chanthath Rinnapakonn revealed that in one case involving a 14-year-old victim, the officer allegedly raided her home during a drug investigation into her brother. Finding nothing illegal, he allegedly threatened the victim that unless she consented to sexual abuse and filming, both her brother and mother would face charges.

Colonel Dr. Thanakrit Chitaririyarat stated that all victims have filed reports, but the case has made no progress. The phone retrieved contains multiple secret chat groups with numerous explicit videos offered for sale at varying prices. He plans to take the victims to the Technology Crime Investigation Bureau for prosecution and to the Justice Ministry for witness protection. He has also petitioned the National Police Commander to issue an order dismissing the officer from service, as any investigation or transfer would not address the gravity of the crimes.

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National

Bangkok Hotels Oppose 3% Tax Plan

The Bangkok hotel industry is opposing a planned 3% tax, asking authorities to start with a lower 0.5-1% rate and provide support as tourism recovers from Middle East tensions.

Bangkok Hotels Oppose 3% Tax Plan
5 Aug The Phuket News

BANGKOK: As the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) plans to introduce a 3% hotel tax to increase revenue, the Thai Hotels Association (THA) has urged the authority to begin with a lower rate of 0.5-1% and provide additional support to help tourism operators affected by the Middle East conflict.

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Community

Foundation Delivers Supplies to Thong Pha Phum Park Rangers

The Huay Jai Brisut Foundation delivered supplies to rangers at Thong Pha Phum National Park in Kanchanaburi to support their forest protection work. The donation aims to ease the burden on staff managing Thailand's natural resources and co

Foundation Delivers Supplies to Thong Pha Phum Park Rangers
5 Aug Khaosod

The Huay Jai Brisut Foundation has delivered supplies to staff at Thong Pha Phum National Park to support their work protecting the country's natural resources and forests. On August 4, foundation president Theeratrat Nawamawat presented provisions to park officials. Rachun Buatree, director of Conservation Area Administration Zone 3 (Ban Pong), received the supplies for distribution to staff at Thong Pha Phum National Park in Kanchanaburi province.

The donation was supported by Sarangjit Wang, a board member of Bai Lee Enterprises, to encourage staff working continuously in natural resource management. Theeratrat stated that the foundation prioritizes supporting conservation and natural resource protection officers, whose work demands great sacrifice and resilience in facing ongoing challenges and risks. She hopes the supplies will ease their burden and strengthen their commitment to protecting forests and natural resources for future generations.

The Huay Jai Brisut Foundation remains dedicated to continuous social development activities, providing support and encouragement to agencies, personnel, and communities across various sectors to build a culture of continuous sharing.

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National

Chiang Mai University Launches 10th Annual Charity Marathon

Chiang Mai University opens registration for its 10th annual charity marathon on November 8, 2026, with proceeds supporting student scholarships and university facilities. Multiple race categories from 5 km to 42 km are available both onsit

Chiang Mai University Launches 10th Annual Charity Marathon
5 Aug Khaosod

Chiang Mai University, in partnership with its alumni association, is opening registration for the 10th CMU – Chiang Mai Marathon on August 9, 2026. The charity run will take place on November 8, 2026, competing for a royal trophy from Princess Sirindhorn. General registration runs August 9–17, with VIP and virtual categories open through August 31 via www.cmu-marathon.com.

Onsite categories include VIP (2,000 baht), Full Marathon at 42.195 km (1,100 baht), Half Marathon at 21 km (950 baht), Mini Marathon at 5 km (700 baht), and Fun Run at 5 km (600 baht), with a maximum of 7,000 participants. Virtual options include Iron Heart at 123 km (1,275 baht), Full Marathon (1,060 baht), Half Marathon (850 baht), Mini Marathon (640 baht), and combo packages (2,120 baht). Packet pickup is scheduled for Saturday, November 7, 2026.

All net proceeds, after expenses, will be allocated to educational scholarships for Chiang Mai University students, dormitory operations, alumni association public service initiatives, and a royal donation to Princess Sirindhorn. The event welcomes health-conscious runners from around the world to celebrate the university's 10-year running legacy. More information is available at CMU Marathon's Facebook page or www.cmu-marathon.com, and inquiries can be directed to the alumni association at 0 5321 6227.

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