Lanta & News
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Community

Village Elders Share Stories of Life and Tradition

Researchers returned to a Pwo Karen village on Doi Tao after a decade to document elder traditions, finding a community where weaving has experienced a cultural revival and extended families maintain close-knit caregiving systems.

Village Elders Share Stories of Life and Tradition
1d ago Khaosod

After a decade-long absence, the Thung Saeng Tawan team returned to Lhay Kaew community in 2026 to engage with elders and understand the lifestyle systems within the Pwo Karen settlement on Doi Tao in Chiang Mai. Morning sunlight filters through the homes as smoke drifts from cooking fires. The Pwo Karen culture centers on extended families, with newly married children building houses near their parents' homes, creating tight-knit clusters of relatives within earshot of one another.

Elderly residents gather under the houses to socialize, some chewing betel nut while discussing local news, while nearby young women quietly work at looms. In the past, weaving was passed down from mother to child out of necessity, but traditional knowledge nearly vanished with the arrival of roads, markets, and cheap commercial textiles. Fortunately, a revival of natural dye techniques and modern designs has rekindled interest in traditional weaving among younger generations, providing income without requiring them to seek work outside the village.

Karen families prepare rice offerings for elders and provide daily care to aging relatives who live nearby. As they enter their final years, most elders in their 70s and 80s show a peaceful acceptance of life, famously expressed by one 86-year-old grandmother who says, "Old age comes, whether we like it or not." Most elders prepare traditional clothing and household items for their eventual passing, viewing it as an ancient practice. They spend their days spinning cotton, greeting visitors, and enjoying the simplicity of daily life without worry about the future.

The quiet community becomes lively during periodic markets when vendors from the lowlands drive up to sell food, supplies, and clothing. Even elderly residents with mobility issues make the effort to attend these gatherings for brief respite and social connection.

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Police

Anti-Money Laundering Panel Flags Airport Drug Smuggling Gaps

A parliamentary anti-money laundering committee revealed security gaps at Suvarnabhumi Airport after a Thai Airways flight attendant was accused of smuggling heroin to Australia, prompting plans to deploy drug-detection dogs and modernize s

Anti-Money Laundering Panel Flags Airport Drug Smuggling Gaps
1d ago Khaosod

On July 9, 2025, Dachai Ekapatthapin, a Lampang MP and spokesperson for the parliamentary anti-money laundering and narcotics suppression committee, announced findings from a hearing on a Thai Airways flight attendant accused of smuggling heroin into Australia. The committee summoned relevant agencies including Thai Airways, Airports of Thailand, and the Civil Aviation Authority to explain their procedures.

Investigators found significant gaps in airport security. Suvarnabhumi Airport has 20 explosive-detection dogs but no dedicated narcotics detection unit, relying instead on the Police Narcotics Bureau and occasional Customs checks. The committee noted that the Prime Minister has ordered K-9 units to be deployed at Suvarnabhumi to strengthen drug detection.

Long-term improvements will include modern technologies such as biometric screening, advance passenger data, and inter-agency data integration, along with increased use of drug-detection dogs.

The committee also raised concerns about international money laundering linked to suspicious fuel exports. Between February and June, over 10 million liters of oil per month were exported to Laos at approximately 20 baht per liter, while Thai consumers pay around 40 baht per liter. This discrepancy stems from excise tax exemptions that allow cheaper fuel purchases. The committee questioned whether the money used to buy this fuel—which is then sold abroad—originates from drug trafficking, scams, or other illicit sources. The Excise Department was urged to close legal loopholes enabling these exports to high-risk areas.

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National

Veteran Thai Actress Namngern Boonhak Dies at 86

Veteran Thai actress Namngern Boonhak, a celebrated performer with a 70-year career spanning film, television, and voice acting, died peacefully at age 86. She won multiple Golden Kinnaree Awards and famously voiced Grandmother Willow in Di

Veteran Thai Actress Namngern Boonhak Dies at 86
1d ago Khaosod

The entertainment world mourns the loss of acclaimed veteran actress Namngern Boonhak, who passed away peacefully at age 86. With an extensive filmography in television and cinema, she was celebrated for her exceptional acting talent and beloved by performers and crews across generations.

Namngern Boonhak, born Suang Charuwijit on January 24, 1940, entered show business in 1955 with encouragement from Songsakangkhak Tikamphon. Her first film was "Sapassuwan" in 1956. She rose to prominence through the 1958 film "Chati Suea," co-starring Mit Chaibancha and Rewadee Sirivai, followed by numerous subsequent works.

She received a Prasatsurussawadee Award (Golden Kinnaree) for Outstanding Supporting Actress for "Miss Poradok" in 1965 and a Golden Kinnaree Award in the same category for "Kaweaw" in 1966 from the Royal Bestowment. She gained renewed recognition as Krasue Yai Sai in the 1994 Channel 7 series "Krasue" and as Khun Khon in the 1995 Channel 7 drama "Monruk Luk Thoong."

Beyond acting, Namngern achieved notable success as a voice actress, famously voicing Grandmother Willow in Disney's animated films "Pocahontas" (1995) and "Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World" (1998). She retired from acting in 2025 after her final performance in the Channel 3 HD drama "Saen Rak," concluding a 70-year entertainment career. She later faced health challenges and received medical support from the Sala Chalermkrung Foundation before her passing on July 9, 2026, at age 86.

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National

Thailand, Malaysia Boost Border Infrastructure and Trade

Thailand and Malaysia will jointly open new border checkpoints and accelerate infrastructure projects including ferry services, railway integration, and bridge construction to boost trade and tourism. The two nations aim to reach $30 billio

Thailand, Malaysia Boost Border Infrastructure and Trade
1d ago Khaosod

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on July 9, 2025 (local Malaysian time) for an official visit to Malaysia. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim personally welcomed him with a formal reception ceremony at the airport's VIP lounge. Both leaders inspected a Guard of Honour and traveled together by car to the Malaysian Prime Minister's office (Perdana Putra Complex) in Putrajaya for official discussions.

During talks at 1:10 p.m., government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek revealed that both prime ministers agreed to elevate cooperation across all dimensions and create an "area of opportunity" in economics, trade, investment, tourism, and security—directly improving living standards and incomes for both nations' citizens.

A key focus was accelerating infrastructure connections between Thailand and Malaysia to ease travel, reduce shipping costs, and strengthen border trade. The two leaders will jointly open the new Sa Dao and Bukit Kayu Hitam border checkpoints tomorrow, which represent Thailand-Malaysia's highest-value trade points.

Both countries agreed to advance several major projects: reopening ferry service between Satun Province and Kuala Perlis, integrating railway ticketing systems between Bangkok, Hatyai, and Butterworth, rehabilitating the Sungai Kolok-Rantau Panjang railway line, and constructing new bridges to improve regional transportation and logistics.

Alongside infrastructure development, Thailand and Malaysia will jointly promote investment, support local entrepreneurs, create jobs, develop workforce skills, and enhance tourism to ensure border communities benefit from economic growth.

On security, both countries reaffirmed cooperation in building peace in southern border provinces, emphasizing that economic development and peacebuilding must advance together. They pledged increased cooperation against transnational crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and border crime, while establishing joint task forces to monitor the Kolok River and develop flood warning systems.

Economically, both nations target trade value reaching $30 billion USD in the near future and are strengthening supply chains in food security, energy, and advanced technology. Agriculture ministers were tasked with expediting market opening for agricultural and fishery products. The two leaders also witnessed the exchange of agricultural cooperation agreements covering crops and livestock.

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Community

Actress Celebrates Son's Selection For Asian Games Swimming Team

Actress Lukkade-Metinee Kingporm celebrated her son Sky's selection to Thailand's senior swimming team for the 2026 Asian Games, his first major competition at the senior level. The family is focusing on supporting his training without pres

Actress Celebrates Son's Selection For Asian Games Swimming Team
1d ago Khaosod

Prominent actress Lukkade-Metinee Kingporm expressed overwhelming pride and shed tears of joy after learning that her son, Sky Kingporm Sharpless, has been selected for Thailand's national swimming team to compete at the 2026 Asian Games.

Sky, the beloved son of renowned supermodel and actress Lukkade-Metinee Kingporm, has earned a spot on Thailand's senior national team for the 2026 Asian Games swimming competition.

Lukkade-Metinee revealed that she feels immensely proud because while Sky had previously made Thailand's youth national team two or three times, this is his first selection to the senior national team for such a major competition. Upon seeing his name on the roster, she screamed and cried with joy, calling it a tremendous source of family pride.

She explained her role in supporting Sky's training, focusing on transportation to practice sessions and providing nutritious meals to help him concentrate fully on training. Noting that Sky typically trains in England while attending school there, she emphasized that having him in Thailand now gives the family an opportunity to provide complete support.

"The important thing is not to put pressure on him, but if he can make the finals at the Asian Games, that would be wonderful. I want him to do his absolute best since this is his first time competing on Asia's biggest sporting stage," Lukkade-Metinee said. She added that entertainment industry friends and extended family are supportive, and the family is proud that Sky will represent Thailand with the national flag.

Sky, who returned from England to join Thailand's national swimming team camp, expressed surprise upon seeing his name selected but credits his hard work and determination for achieving this goal. He stated that he aims to post his best times at the Asian Games and plans to train even harder to maximize his performance in his events.

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Breaking

96-Year-Old Grandma Refuses To Stop Party Despite Eviction Threat

A 96-year-old American grandmother went viral after refusing to stop partying despite her senior living facility's eviction threat, declaring that paying her own rent means nobody can stop her from having fun.

96-Year-Old Grandma Refuses To Stop Party Despite Eviction Threat
1d ago Khaosod

A new legend has emerged—96-year-old American grandmother Lillian Droniak went viral globally after revealing her senior living facility was unhappy with her frequent parties and threatened action against her. Rather than worry, Grandma Droniak found the situation hilarious and firmly stated that nobody could stop her from living a happy life. She emphasized that since she pays her own rent, no one has the authority to prevent her from enjoying herself.

Known to millions as "Grandma Droniak," she posted a humorous video response declaring that her party schedule and fun activities would continue unchanged, as "partying too much" was not a big deal to her. The controversy stemmed from noise complaints and the frequency of celebrations, which might seem troublesome to others, but for this 96-year-old, it became content that went viral. Her video garnered over 5.5 million views, more than 668,000 likes, and over 12,500 comments.

The story took a positive turn when Grandma Droniak received a special invitation from a renowned entertainment venue to attend a brunch event as a distinguished guest. What started as a threat of eviction transformed into her becoming a sought-after celebrity guest.

Today, Grandma Droniak represents the "Granfluencer" trend—elderly creators building online fame—proving that charm, authenticity, and fun are not limited to younger generations. Many viewers appreciate seeing older people living life fully and happily. While it remains unclear if the senior living facility will follow through on its threats, one thing is certain: Grandma Droniak continues to win the hearts of the online world, and her party days are far from over.

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National

Bangkok Governor Plans BTS Fare Hike, Government Transfer

Bangkok's governor plans to meet with the prime minister to discuss raising BTS fares from 17-45 baht to 20-25 baht and transferring the Green Line to government control to reduce operational costs.

Bangkok Governor Plans BTS Fare Hike, Government Transfer
1d ago Khaosod

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt announced on July 9 that he will meet with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on July 13 to discuss several issues, including adjusting BTS fares and transferring the Green Line to government control. The current government-set fare of 17-45 baht has increased ridership, prompting consideration of a new rate of 20-25 baht. If the government assumes control of the Green Line, it could reduce costs for residents. The governor also plans to pursue simpler initiatives first, such as tree-planting in areas facing green space scarcity and addressing street vendors and mobile traders, which he believes align with government priorities.

When asked about mega-projects, Chadchart said two to three proposals are under consideration: a river crossing bridge, a public plaza project, and a civic or administrative center on the Thonburi side. However, budget constraints remain a concern, as funds must cover the BTS's annual 5-billion-baht deficit. Regarding anti-corruption efforts, the governor acknowledged that external agencies with broader authority, such as the National Anti-Corruption Commission, would be needed. He also clarified the distinction between foreign traders selling goods and Chinese nationals operating as street vendors, noting that foreign traders fall under his jurisdiction, while Chinese vendor issues require coordination among multiple agencies through joint investigations.

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Police

Police Investigate Missing Gold Amulets After Woman's Collapse

An 86-year-old woman's death in Rayong has sparked a police investigation after her family discovered valuable gold amulets and jewelry worth hundreds of thousands of baht were missing from their home.

Police Investigate Missing Gold Amulets After Woman's Collapse
1d ago Khaosod

An 86-year-old woman named Nang Eam collapsed suddenly at her home and was transported to hospital by emergency responders, but later died. While the family initially focused on her medical emergency, they subsequently discovered that several items had gone missing: a one-baht gold necklace, closed-eye Luang Pu Tim amulets, tamarind powder amulets, candies, and Luang Pu Tim sacred water that had been collected since 1974, with a combined value of hundreds of thousands of baht.

On July 9, 2026 at 11:00 a.m., the deceased woman's 87-year-old husband Nai Sumet, along with their daughter and son-in-law, filed a report with investigator Police Lieutenant Wittaya Kulbun at Ban Khai Police Station. They brought photographs showing the woman wearing the gold necklace while still alive as evidence.

Family members confirmed that the elderly woman always wore the gold necklace and never removed it, except occasionally to hang it on a nail by the house pillar—a location well known within the family. However, given the sudden collapse, no one had the chance to notice when it disappeared.

Ban Khai Police Superintendent Pol. Colonel Pramod Kongkahlai stated that upon receiving the complaint, he immediately ordered investigators to inspect the scene and establish a timeline of events while interviewing all relevant persons. Police are preparing to conduct a thorough search of the house once the family is ready, as they are currently grieving and occupied with funeral preparations at Bung Ton Chan Temple in Ban Khai District, Rayong Province.

"We now have preliminary information about who entered and exited the scene, including municipal officials and rescue workers who arrived first," the superintendent said. "We will gather all evidence to clarify this case and ensure justice for all parties involved."

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Police

Worker Killed When Pile Driver Collapses On Rama II Road

A pile driver collapsed on Rama II Road in Samut Sakhon on July 9, killing a worker at the scene and causing major traffic delays while authorities investigated.

Worker Killed When Pile Driver Collapses On Rama II Road
1d ago Khaosod

A fatal accident occurred on Rama II Road outbound near a company facility at the Khlong Luang U-turn bridge in Samut Sakhon province on July 9, 2569, according to reports from JS100 Radio's Facebook page. A pile driver collapsed and struck a male worker who was performing his duties, resulting in one death at the scene. Police from Bang Torad Station, along with rescue teams and related agencies, immediately responded to investigate the area, conduct an autopsy, collect evidence, and determine the cause of the accident. Officials coordinated efforts to remove the pile driver and reopen the area as quickly as possible. The accident disrupted traffic flow, forcing authorities to temporarily close the area to facilitate operations and site clearance. This resulted in continuous traffic congestion on Rama II Road outbound in the affected section. Authorities are requesting public cooperation to avoid the area. Those who must pass through are advised to exercise special caution and closely follow official announcements for safety and travel convenience.

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Community

Lucky And Unlucky Days: Romance For Singles, Communication Warnings

Singles may find romantic fortune this week, but those in relationships face communication challenges and potential deception in personal matters.

Lucky And Unlucky Days: Romance For Singles, Communication Warnings
1d ago Khaosod

Lucky And Unlucky Days Friday, July 10, 2026 By Bussaphan

Aries Today you may experience unexpected expenses from multiple sources. Money may slip away or you may need to spend due to your own carelessness. Be very cautious when communicating with foreigners about work matters. This period requires exceptional focus and patience in your work.

Taurus Today you will improve your workplace or make home renovations suited to your family's needs. Capable staff will benefit you greatly, but afterward you should monitor their work closely, as they may behave differently in public and in private.

Gemini Today you may engage in joint business ventures and trade with foreign speakers, or experience romantic interest from a foreigner. Your home or workplace will flourish—perhaps with new entertainment venues. Real estate work during this period will be especially promising long-term.

Cancer You will develop close relationships with knowledgeable people and scholars who may enhance your well-being. What you truly seek now is a peaceful life, which offers good opportunities for learning. The main challenge is relationship and communication issues that may become complicated.

Leo You should not have family members travel with others today. Previous social conflicts will intensify. Do not rush when ordering goods from distant places, as you may be deceived. Entertainment and romantic matters will increasingly involve deception.

Virgo You will be happy among coworkers and may take short trips together. Relatives working in other provinces will return with rare gifts. Soon you will receive a lump sum of cash that is not a loan. Romance may face obstacles, but single people may find love with someone who brings good fortune.

Libra Today you enjoy good fortune from work and love. You will meet old and new coworkers with mutual appreciation. No obstacles exist in personal or public matters. If you lack cash or your guardian doesn't allow spending, you will receive unexpected money without any risk involved.

Scorpio Today exercise may result in minor accidents like tripping or cuts. If annoyed by morally weak neighbors, you may struggle to control your emotions. Life and work generally have no significant obstacles. Your children may consider studying abroad.

Sagittarius Today you may lose items or need to discard something from your life. Staff may be stubborn or disappoint you, and friends may not visit as before. During this period, avoid dwelling on worries, as they will naturally resolve when the time comes.

Capricorn You will feel unhappy at home or your residence, especially if you live in employee housing, as inconsiderate neighbors create tension. Whatever you do well, the community is indifferent. If household members speak unkindly, conflict will escalate.

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National

Politician Fires Back At PM Over Parliament Attendance

Pheu Thai MP Nattapong Ruengpanya criticized Prime Minister Anutin for poor Parliament attendance after the PM claimed not to recognize him during questioning over a controversial 400-billion-baht loan decree. Nattapong argued the governmen

Politician Fires Back At PM Over Parliament Attendance
1d ago Khaosod

On July 9, 2025, at Parliament, Nattapong Ruengpanya, a Pheu Thai list-based MP and party leader, commented on Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Interior Minister saying he didn't know Nattapong after being questioned about opposition calls for accountability over the 400-billion-baht loan decree allegedly breaching the Constitution.

Nattapong stated: "The PM may not attend Parliament very often, so he doesn't remember MPs' faces. I understand that. If he wants to remember other lawmakers, he should answer parliamentary questions more frequently to refresh his memory."

When asked about the PM's position that the National Security Council cannot be dissolved because it has been with Thailand a long time, Nattapong said each government agency must review its origins and purpose, since domestic security agencies have diverse functions with significant overlaps. He cited Vietnam's example of streamlining and consolidating provincial administrations, arguing that reviewing which agencies could be merged or dissolved would ultimately benefit citizens and save the nation's budget.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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