Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Garmin Acquires TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic

Garmin has acquired training platforms TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic to expand its fitness ecosystem, capitalizing on 25% fitness revenue growth in Q2 2024 driven by strong demand for wearables and training technology.

Garmin Acquires TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic
3 Aug Khaosod

Garmin has announced the acquisition of leading training platforms TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic to strengthen its fitness ecosystem and enhance personalized training experiences for athletes and coaches across endurance sports, strength training, and performance development.

The acquisition coincides with continued momentum in Garmin's fitness business segment. In Q2 2024, the company achieved record total revenue of approximately $2.02 billion, up 11% year-over-year, while fitness business revenue grew 25% to $757 million, with growth across all product categories. Strong demand for wearables including Forerunner, Vívoactive, and Venu devices drove the expansion.

Missy Yang, Garmin Thailand Country Manager, stated: "Garmin's global fitness business growth of 25% in Q2 reflects sustained demand for health and training technology. This trend is clearly evident in Thailand as well, with Garmin achieving 30% operational growth in Q2 and 36% in the first half of 2024 compared to the same period last year, primarily driven by fitness products, especially running and wellness categories. Integrating TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic into Garmin's ecosystem represents another significant step in advancing fitness capabilities by combining training tools, performance data, insights, and coaching services to deliver a more comprehensive experience for users at all levels, from beginners to serious athletes."

For Thailand specifically, continued growth in health and fitness interest is evident, with consumers prioritizing technology that enhances personal health understanding and enables data-driven training improvements. The integration of both organizations' strengths will expand options and elevate the user experience to better address diverse consumer needs.

Andy Stephens, Chief Executive Officer of Peaksware Holdings (parent company of TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic), said: "We are delighted to partner with Garmin to advance our mission of supporting athletes and coaches through science-based training approaches. Over more than a decade, TrainingPeaks and TrainHeroic have developed solutions making coaching and performance insights widely accessible, supporting millions of athletes worldwide in developing their potential and achieving their goals through structured, data-driven training. Together, we will further advance the future of athletic training and development."

Garmin develops products with the philosophy "Engineered on the inside for life on the outside," designing technology for full living in the real world. Garmin products have transformed aviation, automotive, fitness, marine, and outdoor markets, enabling people to fully enjoy their passions while committed to daily innovation and pushing boundaries.

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National

Thai TV Show Challenges Chefs to Cook With Less Seasoning

A new Thai TV show challenges renowned chefs to cook with minimal seasoning while competing for prize money, promoting healthier eating habits and demonstrating that natural flavors can shine without excess salt and spices.

Thai TV Show Challenges Chefs to Cook With Less Seasoning
3 Aug Khaosod

Known as the "King of Food Content," Kitikorn Penroajn, CEO of Helicopnia H Group, has launched "Taste for Money," a new project partnering the Thai Health Promotion Foundation and Channel 7HD. The show sets an extreme challenge for chefs to minimize seasoning use while drawing out authentic flavors from raw ingredients, incorporating practical healthy cooking techniques. Kitikorn believes this is Thailand's first such program—and possibly the world's first—where chefs cook with the absolute minimum seasoning in exchange for prize money while promoting viewer health.

The concept emerged from discussions with health authorities who wanted a program that educates viewers about nutrition, since most modern health problems stem from diet. Excessive seasoning can harm the body, so the show demonstrates that reducing seasoning actually allows food's natural flavors to shine and marks the beginning of better health. The challenge excites chefs who normally rely heavily on seasonings; now they must find alternative techniques, such as using naturally sweet vegetables instead of sugar, or seaweed to enhance umami instead of fish sauce.

When chefs learned the rules, some initially worried, but the 50,000-baht prize motivated them. However, Kitikorn noted he sells additional seasoning in the show at premium prices—up to 15,000 baht per item—yet competitors work hard to avoid buying it, extracting maximum flavor from ingredients alone. He confirmed that bland or lightly seasoned food can taste excellent when chefs master flavor balance. Each 20-episode season features different health-focused themes, such as dishes for those at risk of diabetes, obesity, or high blood pressure. Judging focuses solely on taste, since seasoning quantities are pre-set; any additional seasoning must be purchased. The competitors are well-known chefs from MasterChef, Top Chef, and other popular Thai cooking shows.

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National

Thai PM Arrives in Jakarta to Strengthen Indonesia Ties

Thailand's Prime Minister arrived in Jakarta on August 3 for an official state visit aimed at strengthening bilateral ties with Indonesia through cabinet-level talks with President Prabowo.

Thai PM Arrives in Jakarta to Strengthen Indonesia Ties
3 Aug Khaosod

Prime Minister Anuthín Charnvírakul and his delegation, including Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Seehasak Phuangketkit, Deputy PM and Commerce Minister Suphachai Sutthirpandej, Defense Minister Anudom Boontharm, Education Minister Prasert Chantarwangtong, and Agricultural Deputy Minister Wattarapol Khaokhwam, arrived at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta on August 3 at 3:45 p.m. to begin an official state visit to Indonesia through August 4.

The visit is at the invitation of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. General Sjamhari Kanyago, Indonesian Minister of Coordinating Political and Security Affairs, and Hari Prabowo, Indonesian Ambassador to Thailand, welcomed the delegation, along with Thai Ambassador to Jakarta Praphan Disyathat.

The delegation will receive a formal welcome and hold full cabinet-level talks with Indonesian President Prabowo at the Presidential Palace to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations.

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National

Labor Groups Urge Government to Delay Pension Formula Change

Thai labor unions are pushing the government to reconsider a new pension calculation formula, arguing it would reduce retirement benefits for workers rather than protect them.

Labor Groups Urge Government to Delay Pension Formula Change
3 Aug Khaosod

Labour union leader Sawit Kaewwan, president of the Thai Labour Harmony Association (SLRB), led a delegation to meet with Piphatchai Paiboon, spokesman for the Ministry of Labour, on August 3, 2024, to discuss objections to the CARE formula for calculating retirement benefits under the social security system. The union expressed concern that this approach may negatively impact insured workers' rights and called for a thorough government review.

Piphatchai stated that the ministry invited all relevant parties to discuss the matter and allow for an exchange of views on the concerns raised. He acknowledged that while many points of contention were clarified during the meeting, some issues remain unclear. The labour group is scheduled to meet with Labour Minister Julphan Amornvivat at Government House on August 4 to discuss the matter further.

The key point of disagreement centres on how to calculate the 180-day baseline period. One side argues that using only the final 180 days protects workers in case salaries drop, while the other contends that including earlier data from day one provides better security and certainty, even if recent salary reductions affect the calculation.

Sawit stated that the formula appears unfair and reflected concerns from multiple stakeholders. He argued that averaging all salary data will only reduce benefits, not increase them, and that using job uncertainty as justification contradicts the Labour Ministry's core mandate to protect workers and ensure social welfare. He also cautioned that assuming future employment patterns—such as variable hours or unpredictable income—may not align with reality and could lead to flawed policy design.

After extensive discussions, no consensus has been reached, as each side maintains that its proposed approach is correct and fair. The social security office also claims to uphold fairness principles but has yet to establish a universally accepted standard.

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Police

Pattaya Prison Tightens Watch Over Three Murder Suspects

Three murder suspects in a five-victim case are under 24-hour medical isolation at Pattaya Special Prison with continuous monitoring to prevent self-harm and inmate attacks.

Pattaya Prison Tightens Watch Over Three Murder Suspects
3 Aug Khaosod

On August 3, 2569, Patthasapong Jai-khlong-khaen, commander of Pattaya Special Prison, disclosed details about custody of three suspects in a five-victim murder and concealment case: Thana "Pong" Kaet-thong, Thongchai "Thong" Srinit, and Atthaphaang "Ball" Chuang-kham. All three have been placed in medical isolation for five days under continuous 24-hour monitoring to prevent self-harm and attacks from other inmates. A fourth suspect remains under police investigation pending transfer to prison.

The prison commander stated that all three suspects are in normal physical condition, eating regularly, and showing no signs of unusual stress or fear, though they appear emotionally withdrawn. Staff are closely monitoring their behavior through CCTV and direct observation due to the case's high public interest.

Pong has served three previous sentences at Pattaya Special Prison and was involved in a violent altercation with other inmates in 2564, after which he was transferred to Rayong Central Prison. He was released on June 2 after completing his previous sentence for attempted murder. The prison has implemented special safeguards including separating co-defendants into different cells, checking for networks of former inmates, and conducting continuous security risk assessments.

Regarding inmate classification, the prison commander explained that murder convictions result in the lowest classification level, "requiring significant improvement," which delays eligibility for sentence reductions or parole by years. Electronic monitoring (EM) is recommended by the prison in all serious cases, but the final decision rests with the court based on the prosecutor's petition under the Prevention of Repeat Offense Act.

Concerning reports of Pong's psychiatric history or medication use, the prison commander confirmed that initial health and mental screening found no abnormalities or concerning symptoms. However, nursing and clinical psychology staff will continue close monitoring throughout his detention.

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Police

College Denies Responsibility for Ex-Student's Car Vandalism

A former student vandalized a vehicle in an incident the college says was purely personal and not sanctioned by the institution, which apologized and pledged cooperation with authorities.

College Denies Responsibility for Ex-Student's Car Vandalism
3 Aug Khaosod

On August 3, 2026, Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Yasothon (Technic Rajsittharam) issued a statement regarding an incident in which a vehicle was damaged. The college expressed regret and concern over the incident involving a former student, clarifying that the act was purely personal and not undertaken on behalf of the institution or as a result of any college policy or operational directive. The college does not support any actions that damage others' property or affect the peace and image of the educational institution. It emphasized its commitment to instilling integrity, ethics, responsibility, and respect for others' rights and property among all students and alumni. The college apologized to those affected and called on all parties to report information about the incident carefully, without generalizing it to the college's students, staff, or personnel as a whole, since it was an individual's personal action. The college stated it is ready to cooperate with relevant authorities in accordance with government procedures and regulations to ensure the facts are presented correctly and fairly to all parties. The statement was issued by Surasak Kaewheid, Director of Rajamangala University of Technology Isan Yasothon, on August 3, 2026.

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Regional

Woman Shocked by Electric Shock in Jacuzzi at Pool Villa

A woman received an electric shock while using a jacuzzi at a Phetchaburi pool villa in late July, alarming her when the manager dismissed her concerns and claimed no one had ever been shocked there before.

Woman Shocked by Electric Shock in Jacuzzi at Pool Villa
3 Aug Khaosod

A woman has shared her frightening experience of receiving an electric shock while bathing in a jacuzzi at a pool villa, issuing a public warning. She revealed the facility manager's troubling response: "How could electricity cause a shock? No one has ever been shocked here before." On August 3, 2569, a consumer group member recounted the incident from July 25, when she was enjoying a company outing with her husband and 10-month-old child at a pool villa in Phetchaburi province.

The pool villa's bathroom was equipped with a large jacuzzi suitable for the whole family. Around 9 p.m. on July 25, after soaking once and washing her hair, she went to adjust the hot and cold water taps for another bath. During the first tap adjustment, she felt what seemed like an electric shock on her hand, but wasn't certain. On the second attempt, however, she clearly felt a strong current running from her hand to her arm and immediately retreated, calling for her husband.

She took shelter near the toilet where her phone was located and called for help. Her husband rushed out of the bathroom and, standing back, attempted to kick near the water surface and confirmed the electric current was present. He immediately summoned coworkers, the housekeeper, and the villa owner to turn off the running water and cut the power.

Around 10:20 p.m., the villa manager arrived and helped switch off the circuit breaker to stop the electrical current before inspecting the bathroom. The guest requested the facility use a testing device to verify the electrical leak, but the staff declined, saying they believed there was definitely a fault. After repairs, the manager explained that water had splashed onto the water heater unit beside the tub—the area was covered by a bag containing wet patches—and he unplugged all electrical outlets nearby, then disabled the circuit breaker for that section and instructed guests to use the downstairs bathroom instead.

What upset the woman most was the manager's comment around 11 p.m.: "How could electricity cause a shock? No one has ever been shocked here before." She felt her experience was being dismissed despite her genuine fear and trauma. Her husband countered that if the manager didn't believe them, he could turn the breaker back on and touch it himself. The manager then fell silent and said nothing further before they went to check the breaker.

Afterward, the couple attempted to contact both the booking agency and the villa owner to demand a clear explanation of what had happened.

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Police

Engine Failure Fills Phuket Road With White Smoke

A pickup truck's engine failure released thick white smoke across the road up Kata Hill in Phuket on August 3, forcing drivers to slow down and reducing visibility until the vehicle was towed away.

Engine Failure Fills Phuket Road With White Smoke
3 Aug Khaosod

PHUKET — On August 3, 2026, a pickup truck released thick white smoke that covered a road leading up Kata Hill in Phuket, alarming drivers and sparking online debate about what caused the incident.

Dashcam footage posted on a local Facebook page showed a large plume of white smoke billowing continuously from a vehicle on the road up Kata Hill in Karon subdistrict, Muang district, Phuket.

The incident alarmed motorists traveling behind the truck, as the thick smoke spread across the road and reduced visibility. Drivers were forced to slow down and drive with extra caution to avoid accidents.

The Facebook post accompanying the footage asked: "A vehicle is spewing smoke all over the road on the way up Kata Hill. What caused this? Could the engine have overheated?"

Pol. Col. Pathapee Srichai, commander of Karon Police Station, later confirmed that the vehicle was a closed-body pickup truck. Engine damage caused the large amount of white smoke to pour from the vehicle, he said.

The vehicle owner then called a recovery truck to remove the pickup and take it to a repair shop. Traffic in the area returned to normal afterward.

Police advised motorists to perform regular maintenance checks on their vehicles, especially the engine, before driving. Such checks can prevent breakdowns that endanger drivers and others on the road and help reduce accident risk, police said.

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Weather

Heavy Rain Damages Famous Sutong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son

Heavy rains and logs damaged the iconic Sutong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son on August 2, forcing its closure while authorities plan protective barriers and improved water management to prevent future flood damage.

Heavy Rain Damages Famous Sutong Pae Bridge in Mae Hong Son
3 Aug Khaosod

Heavy rainfall on August 2 unleashed strong currents that carried large logs crashing into the Sutong Pae Bridge abutment in Mueang District, Mae Hong Son Province, damaging its structure and rendering it impassable. The popular tourist attraction suffered significant impact, with debris accumulating around the bridge's support. Monks stationed at Phu Somnaraem Temple voluntarily dove into the water to clear fallen branches and timber, providing initial cleanup assistance.

Authorities have outlined long-term restoration plans, including construction of protective barriers using gabion boxes to strengthen the bridge and improved water management coordination with upstream and downstream water-user groups to mitigate future flood impacts. In the Mae Sanga community, three houses suffered damage with some household items destroyed. Provincial officials are closely monitoring rainfall levels and have alerted residents to remain vigilant, while emergency responders maintain 24-hour readiness with personnel, machinery, and equipment to assist affected communities if conditions worsen.

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Regional

Phuket Honors 24 Businesses in Rising Brand Awards

PHUKET: Phuket officials have recognised 24 local businesses under its “Phuket Rising Brand 2026” programme, as the province pushes entrepreneurs to strengthen their brands and compete in national and international markets.

Phuket Honors 24 Businesses in Rising Brand Awards
3 Aug The Phuket News

PHUKET: Phuket officials have recognised 24 local businesses under its “Phuket Rising Brand 2026” programme, as the province pushes entrepreneurs to strengthen their brands and compete in national and international markets.

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National

Senators Demand Election Commission Prosecute 229 in Senate Ballot Fraud Case

Political activists and former senate candidates demand the Election Commission prosecute 229 people accused of ballot fraud in a two-year-old case, threatening legal action against the EC if charges are dismissed.

Senators Demand Election Commission Prosecute 229 in Senate Ballot Fraud Case
3 Aug Khaosod

On August 3, 2025, at the Election Commission (EC) office, reserve senator Akkhrawat Pongsthanacharoenkul, along with former senate candidates Direk Phonsima, Aranya Boonruang, and Chatwittaya Mongkolsen—representing political activist groups and election observers—submitted a letter to the EC requesting expedited resolution of the two-year-old senate election fraud case. They argued that the EC's conduct amounts to a process of overthrowing democratic governance and threatens the structure of sovereign power across legislative, executive, and judicial branches.

Akkhrawat called on all seven EC members to conclude their investigation using the 26th inquiry commission report and refer the case to the Supreme Court's election division this month. He emphasized that independent agencies must act with integrity and impartiality, free from political influence. If the EC attempts to dismiss charges against the 229 accused by claiming lack of merit, civil groups and former candidates have prepared a lawsuit against the EC itself.

The group revealed that the 26th inquiry report achieved unanimous consensus from civil servants and experts, compiling comprehensive personal, documentary, and forensic evidence. However, they noted suspicious delays in proceedings. They cited three major irregularities: (1) organized transportation of candidates nationwide via vans; (2) provision of free accommodation in hotels across Bangkok's metropolitan area without candidate expense; and (3) free meal provisions prepared entirely by organizers.

When asked about the EC's claim that introducing voting guides is lawful, Akkhrawat clarified that administrative court orders only protect sections 7, 8, and 11, which permit carrying candidate introduction documents (Form SW3) into polling booths due to the large candidate pool—not elaborate voting schemes. He argued that secretly writing names behind documents, hiring vote guides, organizing training, creating charts, and paying voters in exchange for support constitutes illegal vote-buying and orchestrated ballot manipulation, which no court would sanction.

Akkhrawat challenged EC Secretary-General Sawang Boonmee and the EC chair to publicly confirm whether hiring vote writers, blocking votes, or orchestrating senate ballots is legal. He noted the case has stalled over two years despite closed-circuit camera footage and over 3,000 ballots showing duplicate voting aligned with voting guides from June 24–25 through election day June 26, 2567 (2024). He threatened that if the EC refuses to open ballot boxes to verify facts, legal action would follow.

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