Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

BEM Announces Traffic Diversion on Srirat Expressway

BEM has announced traffic diversions on Srirat Expressway near Chaeng Watthana toll plaza through August 25 for reconstruction work, with operations scheduled during specific daytime and nighttime windows.

8h ago Khaosod

Bangkok Expressway and Metro Public Company Limited (BEM) has announced a traffic diversion on Srirat Expressway near the entrance to Chaeng Watthana toll plaza (inbound) due to reconstruction work on the toll plaza structure and road surface leveling for user safety. Traffic will continue to flow normally through open lanes. The work runs from May 25 to August 25, 2025, during the hours of 10:00-15:30 and 20:00-03:00. BEM requests the cooperation of all road users in this area to drive carefully, observe all warning signs and traffic lights, and strictly comply with traffic markings for safety. BEM apologizes for any inconvenience and can be reached at 02 664 6400 for additional information.

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Regional

KATPRO Hosts Major Kickboxing Tournament in Phuket June 20-23, Champions Advance to Bangkok Professional Circuit

KATPRO hosts an international kickboxing tournament in Phuket June 20-23, with winners advancing to Bangkok for professional opportunities and prize money up to $2,000.

8h ago Khaosod

The Thai Kickboxing Association through KATPRO, led by Dr. Supranie Kuptasa and Aytek Narmetov, announces a prestigious International Professional Kickboxing Tournament & Ranking Selection Fights scheduled for June 20-23, 2025 in Phuket. The tournament will bring together elite kickboxers and rising stars from around the world competing for a ticket to professional advancement and international competition opportunities.

Held under world-class competition standards using K-1 rules, all matches will be adjudicated and controlled according to KATPRO standards and certified by the Thai Kickboxing Association. This is not merely a standard competition but a selection process for future international championship contention. Winners will advance to the main tournament bracket in Bangkok, where successful athletes receive full sponsorship including round-trip economy flights, accommodation, and meals for athletes and coaches. Prize money in Bangkok includes $2,000 (approximately 65,340 baht) for champions and $1,000 for runners-up. At the Phuket qualifying round, champions earn $500 (approximately 16,335 baht) plus a ticket to Bangkok, while runners-up receive $300.

The competition accepts male athletes aged 18-40 competing under KATPRO rules across seven weight divisions: 54kg, 57kg, 60kg, 65kg, 71kg, 75kg, and 81kg. Registration and weigh-ins occur Friday, June 19 from 9:00-14:00 at Khun Pohn Martial Arts. Qualifying rounds run Saturday June 20 through Sunday June 21 at the same venue. Championship finals take place Monday June 22 and Tuesday June 23 at Bangla Boxing Stadium in Patong. Dr. Supranie Kuptasa expressed hope that participants will experience the spirit of Thailand's "Land of Smiles" while celebrating the power, technique, and warrior spirit of kickboxing, all while experiencing the charm of Phuket.

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National

Mongkol Kitti Storms Satriwitthaya 2 School as Students Cheer and Shout '007'

Mongkol Kitti and a Bangkok gubernatorial candidate visited Satriwitthaya 2 School on May 22, where enthusiastic students gathered seeking photos and autographs while discussing education and transportation issues with the delegation.

9h ago Khaosod

On May 22, 2569, Mongkol Kitti Sukhsintharanont, leader of the 'Bangkok Can Fly' group, visited Satriwitthaya 2 School to meet with students, accompanied by Bangkok gubernatorial candidate Phasermpong Chaiyaviriyanavaniched, Vivat Chareonpanichsiree, and Phakphorn Chanchanana, along with team members. The visit drew large crowds of students who eagerly welcomed the delegation. The school corridors and grounds were packed with students seeking selfies, autographs, and photos, with some climbing desks and onto friends' shoulders to catch a glimpse of 'Phi Tae,' while shouts of '007' echoed throughout the campus.

During the visit, Mongkol Kitti and his team conversed casually with students, listened to their concerns about education, transportation, and school environment, and gathered their perspectives on Bangkok's educational development. Phakphorn Chanchanana also engaged in discussions about academic quality, youth activities, and stress reduction for students.

Phasermpong Chaiyaviriyanavaniched, the gubernatorial candidate, stated that the visit aimed to listen to students' problems and opinions about what they would like the Bangkok governor to improve. From conversations with students, he identified the main issue of transportation, noting one student living in Lam Lukka, Pathum Thani, who needs daily rides from parents. He proposed implementing a 'Student Bus' system with long-distance routes connecting outer areas to central Bangkok, including a route from the Vibhavadi-Rangsit zone to a central hub at Sanam Luang to reduce commuting problems.

If given the opportunity to govern Bangkok, Phasermpong said he would negotiate with major bus operators running over 3,100 vehicles to allocate approximately 30 percent, or around 1,000 buses, for a trial run on 10 major routes to assess whether this could reduce traffic congestion, increase public transportation usage, and decrease personal vehicle use.

Discussions with school administrators revealed three main issues: flooding problems, transportation and traffic concerns, and dangerously low-hanging overhead cables in some areas, with requests for Bangkok to remove and organize them for safety.

Mongkol Kitti expressed surprise at the enthusiastic reception from Satriwitthaya 2 students.

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National

KU Class of 1930 Alumni Donate 730,000 Baht Toward Kasetsart University Hospital Construction

Kasetsart University alumni from the Class of 1930 have donated 730,000 baht toward construction of the university's new Faculty of Medicine and hospital, with the largest contribution of 500,000 baht from Siriporn Sripiang and family.

9h ago Khaosod

Alumni from Kasetsart University's Class of 1930, together with their families, relatives, and friends, have jointly contributed 730,000 baht to support the Faculty of Medicine and Kasetsart University Hospital, demonstrating the enduring bonds and generous spirit within the Kasetsart University community. The contribution aims to be part of building the "hospital of the future" that will benefit the Thai public and nation in the long term. Dr. Damrong Sriphraram, acting rector of Kasetsart University, formally received the donation of 730,000 baht from the Class of 1930 alumni group, witnessed by Associate Professor Dr. Nuchnarat Mangkang, deputy rector for finance and special activities, at the university's administrative office. Major donors include Siriporn Sripiang (KU 1930) and family with 500,000 baht, Ubonporn Klinyoo (KU 1930) with 100,000 baht, Suparat Akvavichwong and the family of Ekvipha Sutthinoon (KU 1930) with 20,000 baht, along with relatives and friends of Siriporn Sripiang contributing an additional 110,000 baht for a total of 730,000 baht. This donation exemplifies the collaborative spirit and commitment of Kasetsart University alumni in supporting the establishment of the Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Nursing, Faculty of Pharmacy, and Kasetsart University Hospital as key components of the university's Medical Park project, aimed at developing a center for medical education, research, and health innovation for the nation. The university extends gratitude to all donors and invites further contributions through two channels: the Punboon website or Thai Military Bank account number 069-2-77187-6 under the name Kasetsart University Hospital. Donations are tax-deductible at a 1:1 ratio.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Interior Trade Department Recruits Buyers for 100 Tons of Golden Rambutan from Trat Province to Combat Price Collapse

The Interior Trade Department is recruiting buyers for 100 tons of golden rambutan from Trat Province after prices collapsed to 15 baht per kilogram, distributing the fruit through government agencies and tourism events to stabilize the mar

9h ago Khaosod

The Interior Trade Department has intervened to help rambutan farmers in Bo Rai District, Trat Province, whose golden rambutan prices have plummeted to approximately 15 baht per kilogram. Deputy Director Jirawut Suvanaj revealed that the department coordinated with the Trat Provincial Commerce Office and brought in direct buyers starting May 23, 2025, with an initial target to purchase 100 tons within one week at market-leading prices.

Suvanaj stated that the purchased rambutan will be distributed through various channels including Thailand's Tourism Authority trail running event this weekend in Rayong Province, as well as government and private sector units such as the Customs Department, Royal Thai Army, Teachers' Council, and Central Department Store branches to help clear inventory and stabilize prices for farmers.

Regarding Trat's 2025 rambutan situation, the province has 45,657 rai of rambutan plantations (golden and school varieties) with total production of 106,906 tons, up 5%. Currently 50% of the harvest has reached the market, while golden rambutan production costs stand at 13.86 baht per kilogram. Early season prices were relatively strong and higher compared to the same period last year. However, prices have recently begun declining due to market factors and weather conditions, including Vietnamese market slowdown in purchasing due to economic conditions and competing fruits entering the market, giving consumers more options. Domestically, consumers prefer school rambutan while golden rambutan is mostly used for canned fruit processing. Additionally, recent continuous rainfall has caused some fruit to remain in orchards. The department has moved quickly to prevent further price declines that could impact farmers' incomes.

"The Interior Trade Department will work with the Provincial Commerce Office to closely monitor rambutan prices and production volumes to maintain price stability and promptly relieve farmers' hardship," Jirawut stated.

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Tourism

IconSiam Creates Global Collaboration Phenomenon, Partners with Headstand Entertainment

IconSiam will host Asia's first live stage show based on Snoop Dogg's animated series Doggyland on July 18-19, 2026, featuring a 90-minute performance with interactive activities and character meet-and-greets for families.

9h ago Khaosod

IconSiam is hosting 'DOGGYLAND LIVE! IN BANGKOK 2026,' Asia's first live stage show based on hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg's hit animated series, on July 18-19 at IconSiam Hall, 7th Floor. The world-class riverside landmark is partnering with global entertainment partner Headstand Entertainment, Snoop Dogg, and Doggyland Productions to bring this spectacular show that will allow Thai and Asian fans to experience a complete live stage show for the first time in the region from July 18-19, 2026. This collaboration reflects IconSiam's commitment to creating diverse, meaningful world-class experiences for visitors of all generations, positioning itself as a destination for modern families seeking quality activities for children and shared moments of joy.

Doggyland is a popular educational animation series on YouTube for children created by world-renowned hip-hop legend Snoop Dogg, award-winning composer October London, and producer Claude Brooks. The series combines catchy songs, memorable melodies, dancing, and positive lessons that promote children's learning in fundamentals such as letters, numbers, colors, hygiene, good behavior, self-worth, and social skills through colorful animated dog characters that children love, making it one of the series that has captured families' hearts worldwide.

The arrival of 'DOGGYLAND LIVE! IN BANGKOK 2026' marks a new phenomenon in children's entertainment, presenting a complete live stage show that brings the animated world to life through a 90-minute performance filled with edutainment through hip-hop music and interactive activities bursting with color and positive energy. Thai and Asian fans will have the opportunity to sing along, dance, and have fun with beloved characters such as Bow Wizzle, Woofee, Yap Yap, Barks A Locks, and Chow Wow up close. Special highlights include VIP Meet & Greet experiences where VIP ticket holders can meet the adorable characters, take memorable photos, and receive exclusive souvenirs.

Beyond the stage performance, the event features numerous children's activities including fun activity zones, creative play areas, face painting, hair braiding, a family market, and family facilities such as nursing stations.

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National

TrueOnline Transforms from Home Internet to AI Smart Home with Launch of 'Amy,' Intelligent Home Assistant

TrueOnline launched 'TrueOnline Home Next,' combining home internet with AI-powered smart home technology and an intelligent assistant called 'Amy' that responds to Thai voice commands and controls thousands of connected devices. The move p

9h ago Khaosod

TrueOnline has launched 'TrueOnline Home Next,' combining quality home internet, intelligent IoT devices, and AI technology with the TrueX Home Hub as the smart home control center, alongside 'Amy,' an intelligent home assistant.

On May 22, 2025, Thanapol Manavuddiwech, head of home connectivity management at True Corporation, stated that Thailand's home internet market is entering a significant transformation point. Although the user base reaches approximately 10.41 million with growth stabilizing at 1-2%, consumer demands have clearly shifted. Customers no longer seek only fast home internet but require solutions offering greater convenience, simplicity, safety, and mutual care.

'Modern homes are increasingly filled with IoT devices. According to the Digital 2025: Thailand report by We Are Social and Meltwater, Thailand's smart home market shows 12.3 million smart home devices already in Thai households. However, the technology remains complex to manage, requiring constant commands, settings adjustments, and manual control.'

TrueOnline identified an opportunity to elevate home internet to the next level, becoming Thailand's first AI Smart Home leader seamlessly integrating quality networks, intelligent IoT devices, and AI technology through the TrueX Home Hub. The 'TrueOnline Home Next: Homes that Care for Life' launch combines AI and smart home technology from TrueX partnering with Tuya, a world-leading AI IoT Cloud Platform provider, and T3 Technology, bringing world-class smart home technology to Thai households.

This creates a smart home experience that not only connects but genuinely cares for everyone's life in comfort, safety, and modern Thai lifestyle terms.

The TrueX Home Hub features 'Amy,' an intelligent assistant serving as everyone's trusted friend in the home. She responds to Thai voice commands and easily connects to various TrueX devices and over 3 million Tuya devices throughout Thailand.

Oliver Kittipong Viratetecha, head of brand and communications management, noted that the TrueOnline Home Next launch announces the positioning of Thailand's leading home internet provider no longer viewing itself as merely providing high-speed signals. Instead, it is ushering home internet into a new era where 'home' becomes not just a residence but a life-caring assistant for every family member through technology and AI. 'Amy,' the new intelligent assistant, reflects AI's role not merely as technology but as a close, understanding companion ready to support users daily.

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National

Young Man with Gardner Syndrome Develops Multiple Intestinal Tumors, Bowel Perforation; Treatment No Longer Possible

A Thai man with Gardner syndrome, a rare hereditary genetic disorder, has developed multiple intestinal tumors and bowel perforations eight months after diagnosis, with doctors indicating his condition is no longer treatable and survival un

9h ago Khaosod

A TikTok user (@tonn16548) posted on May 22 to share his devastating experience with Gardner syndrome, a rare hereditary genetic disorder, expressing uncertainty about whether recovery is possible or where his medical journey will end. Now eight months into his diagnosis, he explains that both his small and large intestines have perforated due to tumors caused by his Gardner syndrome. He first discovered the condition after a blood test came back positive, following years of symptoms that began in childhood with the extraction of 13 impacted teeth from beneath his gums. His second major symptom was the development of abdominal tumors—one of which pushed against his intestines and caused the perforation. Doctors have warned that polyps in his large intestine carry a 100 percent risk of developing into colorectal cancer if left untreated. The initial symptoms of bowel perforation included sharp abdominal pain, dizziness, and audible sounds from his abdomen after eating, followed by vomiting and confusion so severe he couldn't communicate coherently at the hospital. Tracing back over a decade, his medical troubles began around age 15 when orthodontists discovered 13 impacted teeth requiring extraction. Four to five years later, his abdomen began swelling, prompting a doctor's visit and tissue biopsy. The swelling recurred and worsened, leading to multiple surgeries where doctors removed tumor masses but couldn't extract them completely, leaving behind fragments that continued to grow. He developed unexplained high fevers that persisted despite antibiotics, and his abdomen became severely bloated and distended. At Siriraj Hospital, doctors admitted him, drained approximately three liters of pus-and-blood mixture from his abdomen, and scheduled surgery. During the operation, doctors discovered a 27-centimeter-long, 15-centimeter-wide tumor mass, plus additional tumors on the back side of his abdomen that they removed simultaneously. The surgery damaged the abdominal wall muscle tissue, requiring him to wear a permanent covering over the surgical site to prevent his intestines from protruding if the skin were to split. Following surgery, CT scans revealed multiple new tumor growths throughout his abdomen, leading doctors to recommend chemotherapy. He underwent 12 rounds of chemotherapy, after which his genetic doctors ordered blood tests that confirmed Gardner syndrome diagnosis. The tumors in his large intestine continued growing and eventually ruptured. His doctors indicated he was unlikely to survive, yet he miraculously did. During his final chemotherapy sessions, CT scans showed the abdominal tumors were continuing to enlarge.

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Breaking

Guardiola Officially Announces Departure from Manchester City, Ending 10-Year Legend with the Club

Pep Guardiola ends his 10-year tenure at Manchester City after Sunday's final match against Aston Villa, during which he won 17 major titles with the Premier League club.

9h ago Khaosod

Pep Guardiola, Manchester City's manager, has officially announced his departure from the club after this Sunday's final match. Guardiola has managed Manchester City for over 10 years, leading the team to 17 major titles during this decade-long tenure. The 55-year-old manager has now confirmed that his final game against Aston Villa at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday, May 24th, will be his last with the club. "Don't ask me for reasons why I'm leaving—there isn't really one, but deep down I know it's my time," Guardiola said. "Nothing lasts forever. If it did, I'd stay here. What will remain forever are the feelings, the people, the memories, and the love I have for Manchester City."

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Community

Young Man Transforms Ordinary Balloons into Spectacular Artwork, Earns Millions Despite Facing Ridicule

A 37-year-old Chinese artist has built a multi-million yuan business creating elaborate balloon sculptures after being inspired by a TV show, overcoming initial ridicule by developing techniques that keep his creations intact for weeks or m

9h ago Khaosod

Sui Dengyong, a 37-year-old from Xiangyang in Hubei Province, China, has transformed ordinary balloons into spectacular artistic creations, generating substantial income with annual revenues exceeding 1 million yuan (around 4.8 million baht).

In his younger years, Sui worked in Guangzhou, starting as a factory employee before advancing to engineer. He initially planned to continue in this field indefinitely. However, in 2013, while watching a television program featuring contestants in balloon-made costumes, he became instantly fascinated with balloon art. He saw it as a low-cost venture with diverse growth potential.

He then used his savings of 30,000 yuan (approximately 140,000 baht) to travel to Henan Province for balloon art training. A month later, he returned to his hometown and opened a shop, launching his business venture seriously. Initially, however, nobody believed the business would succeed, with many questioning whether "blowing balloons could actually make money." But he refused to give up, starting by distributing flyers on the streets and pitching his services to wedding planning companies one by one, eventually securing clients for party decorations and various events.

In 2015, he expanded to other cities and began accepting commissions from shopping malls and large-scale events, attracting clients from diverse areas. A major turning point came in 2017 when he was invited to appear on renowned CCTV programs such as "Shining China" and "Golden 100 Seconds," making his work nationally recognized.

"After that, nobody looked down on me anymore," Sui Dengyong said.

Following the broadcast, orders flooded in from across the country, allowing him to surpass 1 million yuan in revenue. His largest project was creating a balloon art exhibition for a real estate development project in Zhejiang Province, valued at 600,000 yuan (approximately 2.8 million baht).

Sui revealed that the key to creating commercial value in his balloon work is developing techniques to extend durability. While ordinary balloons typically deflate within 3-4 days, his creations can maintain their condition from one week to three months through specialized techniques such as adjusting knot-tying methods to reduce air leakage points, using layered balloon techniques, and applying protective coatings for enhanced durability.

Through continuous innovation, his balloons have become commercial art used to decorate shopping malls, exhibitions, and numerous large-scale events. Over the years, he has won awards from several balloon art competitions and has trained over 4,000 balloon professionals across the country.

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National

Construction Materials Hit 44-Month High as Middle East Tensions Drive Costs Soaring

Construction material prices hit a 44-month high in April 2025, driven by Middle East tensions that spiked oil and energy costs across steel, cement, and concrete categories. Prices are expected to remain elevated through May as regional co

9h ago Khaosod

Construction material prices have reached their highest level in 44 months, according to Nanthapong Jiralertpongse, director of the Office of Trade and Strategic Policy. The construction materials price index for April 2025 equaled 112.4 compared to April 2024, marking a 5.9% increase and the highest level in 44 months. The spike is a direct result of the prolonged Middle East conflict, which has driven up oil and energy prices, disrupting production and logistics chains for construction materials across nearly all categories.

Wood and wood products rose 1.0% due to increased costs for lumber, framing materials, doors, and windows, driven by higher raw material costs and transportation expenses tied to oil prices. The cement category increased 2.8% from rising Portland cement, blended cement, and ready-mix cement prices as energy costs surged from coal and natural gas, reflecting the energy-intensive nature of cement production. Concrete products jumped 5.6% due to increases in precast concrete slabs, beams, and ready-mix concrete as raw material and transportation costs climbed.

Steel and steel products rose 6.2% from higher prices for deformed steel bars, smooth steel bars, black steel pipes, and sheet piles, driven by increased raw material, energy, and shipping costs exacerbated by the Middle East tensions. Tile products increased 1.3% from rising prices for concrete roof tiles, transparent roofing sheets, and glazed floor tiles due to higher natural gas and raw material costs. Finishing materials climbed 0.7% as oil-based paint, acrylic paint, and interior and exterior coatings tracked higher petrochemical and solvent costs.

Sanitary ware was the sole category to decline, dropping 1.2% as ceramic basins, toilet bowls, and paper holders fell with the slowdown in the real estate sector, which faced stricter credit approval policies and high inventory levels. Electrical and plumbing equipment rose 4.9% from increased prices for THW cables, NYY power cables, VCT electrical wires, and street lights as copper, aluminum, and plastic pellet costs increased, alongside growing demand from government infrastructure projects. Other construction materials surged 15.8% largely due to rubber asphalt, a crude oil derivative, which spiked sharply as global crude oil prices and supply remained tight.

May 2025 construction material prices are expected to remain elevated compared to the same period last year due to the continuing Middle East conflict and high uncertainty from the Strait of Hormuz blockade. U.S. naval blockades aimed at pressuring Iran persist, and despite negotiation attempts, both sides have failed to reach agreement. This uncertainty continues to fuel volatile and rising oil and energy prices globally, driving up raw material and transportation costs for many construction materials, particularly those requiring high heat in production such as steel and cement.

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