Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Government to Submit Statement to Constitutional Court This Week on 400-Billion-Baht Emergency Loan Decree

The government will submit a statement to the Constitutional Court this week defending a 400-billion-baht emergency loan decree needed to address the energy crisis and support struggling households and farmers.

4h ago Khaosod

On May 19, 2025, government spokeswoman Rachada Thanadirek announced at Government House that the Cabinet will submit a clarification statement to the Constitutional Court this week regarding the 400-billion-baht emergency decree loan. The court is evaluating whether the Finance Ministry's borrowing authority to address the energy crisis and facilitate national energy transition complies with the Constitution. The government stated it is fully prepared to defend the decree, arguing that without this borrowing, the public would suffer hardship. The funds aim to stabilize living costs, transition from energy imports to clean energy such as solar power, and support struggling populations through programs like Thai Help Thai Plus. The government will also explain measures assisting farmers facing elevated production costs and El Niño risks, demonstrating that economic security concerns justify this borrowing unlike previous loan decrees, and will file its written statement with the court as expeditiously as possible this week.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Bank Credit Growth Slows to 0.2%, Dragging Down Grassroots Economy as SMEs and Households Struggle

Thailand's commercial banks grew credit by just 0.2% in early 2025, with SMEs and households struggling to borrow as lenders tighten standards amid economic slowdown and rising defaults.

4h ago Khaosod

The Bank of Thailand's Deputy Governor for Financial Institution Supervision, Somchai Lertsathapornvashin, revealed that Thailand's commercial banking system showed strong financial fundamentals in Q1 2025, though economic headwinds are starting to pressure profits and credit quality for certain customer segments.

The banking system maintains high stability with strong capital, reserves, and liquidity to weather economic volatility. However, total credit expansion grew only 0.2% year-on-year—a sluggish pace reflecting an economy still losing momentum.

Large corporate credit has recovered thanks to increased demand for working capital as energy and raw material costs surged due to Middle East conflict. In contrast, SME and retail lending continues to shrink as banks tighten risk controls against loan defaults. Banks are simultaneously running protective support programs for vulnerable borrowers through debt restructuring measures and the "You Fight, We Help" initiative.

Non-performing loans (NPL) remain stable at 535.8 billion baht, or 2.85% of total credit, with no acceleration. Positive signals include declining new NPL additions across all segments and some borrowers resuming payments, pushing Stage 2 credit classification down to 7%.

Bank profits fell from the previous year due to declining interest income as policy rates dropped, while banks reduced rates to assist borrowers and increased provisions against Middle East conflict risks.

"We need to closely monitor the outlook," the deputy governor warned. "With economic slowdown, rising costs, and falling household incomes putting pressure on SME and household debt repayment capacity—especially in a tight credit environment—household debt-to-GDP has ticked up slightly from accelerated spending via credit cards and home loans in late 2024."

"Overall, the banking system remains strong, but the grassroots economy and retail borrowers remain fragile," he concluded, noting this will be a critical factor shaping credit trends and bank profits through the rest of 2025.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Police

Five Myanmar Teenagers Arrested for Attacking Thai Youth and Stealing Shoes Over a Staring Incident

Five Myanmar teenagers have been arrested for assaulting a 16-year-old Thai youth and stealing his shoes following a staring confrontation that escalated into a motorcycle chase near a temple in Chon Buri's Ban Lamung District on May 16.

4h ago Khaosod

Five Myanmar teenagers have been arrested for assaulting a 16-year-old Thai youth and stealing his shoes. The incident occurred outside Chong Lom Temple in Moo 2, Na Klua Subdistrict, Ban Lamung District, Chon Buri Province on the night of May 16. Nearly 10 teenage suspects, believed to be Myanmar nationals, attacked the victim and robbed him of a pair of shoes. The case went viral on social media before police made arrests the following evening.

On May 19, Chon Buri Governor Narisak Niramaiyongkul, along with provincial police officials, Ban Lamung District Officer Anusakdi Piriromrom, and Ban Lamung Police Station Commander Pol. Lt. Sarawut Nuchnarote announced the arrest of five Myanmar nationals: Myint Wai, 23; Win Moe Kyaw, 25; Aung Ya Lin, 23; Hia Mis Hret, 20; and Chan Kin Kyaw, 20. Three motorcycles used in the assault were also seized.

Three Thai youths were injured in the attack. Police determined the incident began with a staring confrontation at Lam Balihay Pier Park in Pattaya, Chon Buri. The suspects then chased the victims on motorcycles to the temple area where the assault took place. Following the incident, police tracked the suspects to a dormitory in Moo 11, Nong Kham Subdistrict, Si Racha District, Chon Buri. All five suspects confessed to the assault and have been taken to Ban Lamung Police Station for legal proceedings.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Community

D GERRARD Goes All In as Independent Artist, Assembles World-Class Team for New Album

After eight years under a record label, Thai singer D GERRARD launches his independent debut album ASTRONOMY with world-class producers and an ambitious sci-fi concept spanning 10 tracks.

4h ago Khaosod

Rising star D GERRARD (Big Ukrit Willy Broad Dongabriel), a singer, songwriter, and actor known for hits like Galaxy, Sky Train, and Parallel World, has made his official debut as a fully independent artist under his new image 'Prince of Light.' After eight years under a record label, GERRARD is now taking complete creative control, launching his ambitious new album project ASTRONOMY—a musical journey through the cosmos told across 10 tracks.

The album's listening party was held on May 17 at SF World Cinema, Level 8, Central World, featuring industry peers walking the red carpet in royal Thai-inspired attire. Hosted by Nene Kaet Sepyasawat, the event showcased the album's concept and inspiration, followed by an exclusive listening experience with premium cinema sound and a Q&A session where GERRARD detailed the creative process behind each track.

GERRARD emphasized that ASTRONOMY is more than just a collection of songs—it's a carefully crafted musical universe spanning music, fashion, and sci-fi storytelling. The album features world-renowned engineers including Matt Sim (known for work with John Legend, The Chainsmokers, and Jackson Wang on mixing) and Randy Merrill (who has mastered tracks for Bruno Mars, Taylor Swift, and BTS). The project also includes a music video for 'Superstar' featuring GERRARD performing a real skydive from 13,000 feet.

The event concluded with The Galactic Bar, created by Zimplex Mixology, serving signature cocktails inspired by each of the 10 album tracks, accompanied by DJ KOB FLATBOY. The pre-stream of ASTRONOMY is now available at https://www.openlink.co/dgerrard.work

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Liverpool Unveils New 2026/27 Season Kit in Thailand Debut, Available Worldwide Simultaneously

Liverpool Football Club launched its new 2026/27 season kit in Thailand on May 19, featuring a modern design inspired by the club's iconic 1989-91 championship era, with a pop-up store at Siam Discovery running through June 7. Legend Dirk K

4h ago Khaosod

Liverpool Football Club officially launched its Liverpool FC Pop-Up Store at Siam Discovery on May 19, 2025, marking the Thai debut of the club's new 2026/27 home kit. The pop-up store, running through June 7, 2025, represents a significant milestone for the world-class football club, which selected Thailand as a major launch destination for its new collection featuring exclusive events and licensed merchandise designed specifically for Thai fans.

The centerpiece of the event is the unveiling of the 2026/27 season home kit, inspired by the iconic jersey from the legendary 1989-91 era when the club won the league championship under Sir Kenny Dalglish. The modern design reinterprets the geometric patterns and late-80s aesthetics through contemporary technology and sharp graphic design. The shirt maintains the club's signature fiery red color with white detailing on the Adidas logo, sleeve cuffs, and shoulder stripes, seamlessly bridging the glorious past with the present day.

As a major highlight, the club announced a Liverpool FC Legend Meet & Greet featuring Dirk Kuyt, the legendary Dutch striker and beloved Red, who traveled to Bangkok for an exclusive fan engagement on May 21, 2025, at Discovery Plaza.

Visitors to the pop-up store can experience exclusive activities including: • Meet & Greet with the legendary icon on Thursday, May 21, 2025 • LFC Locker Room Experience: A recreation of Anfield's changing room divided into two eras—the classic 1989 championship style and the modern era—allowing fans to take historic photos in the new kit • AI Photo Booth: An innovative technology allowing visitors to virtually try on the 2026/27 kit using artificial intelligence • Red Talks: Special panel discussions featuring renowned football personalities including Nithana-Suthita, Piak DD, Bee Lamsing, and former Thai national team coach Cicero Senapete, discussing the new kit and the club's direction • Exclusive promotions including limited-edition Exclusive Jersey Boxes for the first 100 visitors and complimentary Liverpool teddy bears with new kit purchases at the LFC Retail Official Store (while supplies last).

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Thailand and Myanmar to Link Monitoring Systems and Share Air Pollution Data

Thailand and Myanmar agreed to integrate air pollution monitoring systems and share data to combat transboundary haze affecting the region, with Thailand providing technical support to strengthen Myanmar's environmental infrastructure under

4h ago Khaosod

CHIANG MAI — On May 19, 2026, Thai and Myanmar officials agreed to strengthen cooperation on tackling transboundary haze pollution by integrating monitoring platforms and sharing air pollution data under a long-term regional strategy, Thai authorities announced.

The meeting held in Chiang Mai under the "Clear Sky Strategy 2024–2030" brought together Surin Worakitthamrong, director-general of Thailand's Pollution Control Department, and Dr. San Oo, director-general of Myanmar's Environmental Conservation Department, along with representatives from other agencies to discuss joint responses to the annual cross-border haze crisis affecting the Mekong region.

Surin reported that Myanmar had reduced wildfire hotspots by 12% in 2025 compared to the previous year, based on the latest Myanmar government data.

He said the reduction reflected Myanmar's enforcement of environmental protection laws and public awareness campaigns in high-risk areas, though major challenges remain, particularly limited air-quality monitoring infrastructure and incomplete environmental databases.

Thai officials said Thailand would provide technical support to Myanmar to strengthen long-term trilateral cooperation in addressing haze pollution, including: • developing online platforms and websites for reporting transboundary haze conditions and air quality in Myanmar • providing technical assistance on air-quality standards, Air Quality Index systems and Myanmar's national air-quality management planning • sharing expertise in developing fire-risk maps using hotspot-monitoring technology to improve wildfire response capabilities

Surin said sharing technology and knowledge would help connect regional air-pollution data systems and improve the accuracy and effectiveness of cross-border haze management across the Mekong region.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Community

Meet Caesar and Defay: The Adorable Chemistry Between Two Breakout Stars From 'Your Dear Daddy'

Caesar Phudis and 19-year-old Defay Chan bring heartwarming chemistry to the hit series 'Your Dear Daddy,' creating an irresistible father-son dynamic that has captivated audiences alongside the show's main romantic couples.

4h ago Khaosod

Introducing the charming duo Caesar Phudis and Defay Chan from the hit series 'Your Dear Daddy' – their on-screen chemistry is absolutely heartwarming!

While the main couples – Fluke Phusit Ditsathapisisopha and Saeng Nuea Jitbun Gambunyarak – have already won over fans with their romance, there's another pairing that deserves all the attention. Caesar Phudis Kannapon and Defay Defay Chan bring an irresistible charm to their roles, creating the sweetest father-son dynamic that fans can't get enough of.

Caesar's portrayal of the protective father figure 'Mok' radiates warmth and dependability, while Defay brings natural charm to the character 'Saeng Lua.' Together, they create pure joy on screen.

**DEFAY DEFAY CHAN** Full Name: Defay Chan Nickname: Defay Date of Birth: January 26, 2007 Age: 19 years old Height: 180 cm Education: Bangkok University, Year 1, Faculty of Business Administration Social Media: Instagram/TikTok: defeii_c Previous Work: 'Your Dear Daddy' (role: Saeng Lua) Current Project: 'Your Dear Daddy' Hobbies: Listening to music, watching horror films, sports, gaming, and basketball

**CAESAR PHUDIS KANNAPON** Full Name: Phudis Kannapon Nickname: Caesar Date of Birth: November 23, 2000 Age: 25 years old Height: 180 cm Education: Bachelor's degree from Chiang Mai University, International College of Digital Innovation; Currently pursuing a Master's degree in Political Science and Public Administration at Chiang Mai University; Also runs a private business Social Media: Instagram/TikTok: phuditcaesar Previous Work: 'Your Dear Daddy' (role: Mok) Current Project: 'Your Dear Daddy' Hobbies: Business study, board games, football, trail running, and badminton

Catch 'Your Dear Daddy' every Saturday at 10:30 PM on Channel 9, with uncut versions streaming at 11:00 PM on iQIYI app and iQ.com. Follow both Caesar and Defay on Instagram and TikTok for exclusive behind-the-scenes content!

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Informa to Host ProPak Asia 2026, Targeting Wellness-Longevity Segment Amid Global Mega-Trend

Informa Markets will host ProPak Asia 2026 to help Thai beverage producers leverage technology and innovation in the fast-growing wellness-longevity segment, as the global beverage market is projected to reach 2.03 trillion U.S. dollars by

4h ago Khaosod

The global beverage industry is valued at 65.52 trillion baht, with Informa Markets organizing ProPak Asia 2026 to support Thai entrepreneurs in using technology and innovation to enhance beverage production and development, targeting the wellness-longevity segment amid global mega-trends.

Thailand maintains its status as the world's fifth-largest non-alcoholic beverage exporter. The global beverage market is projected to reach approximately 2.03 trillion U.S. dollars, or about 65.52 trillion baht, by 2026, with an average annual growth rate of 5.65%. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market, driven by rising incomes, growing populations, urbanization expansion, and increasing consumer demand for convenient products that support health-focused consumption behaviors (wellness), quality longevity (longevity), and preventive health care.

Thai beverage industry is expected to maintain its position while the domestic market value in 2026 is projected to exceed 500 billion baht, following the same global trajectory. To enhance competitiveness and address current challenges, innovation and technology are critical solutions for improving operations and production processes efficiently.

ProPak Asia 2026 is significant for the industry's transformation. Beyond being the region's largest processing technology and packaging exhibition, it will highlight machinery innovations and technologies supporting comprehensive production across all beverage types, including advanced aseptic technology, production line adjustments for lightweight packaging, recycled plastic packaging (rPET), and AI-driven production management for zero waste and reduced energy costs.

The event will feature ProPak Drinksphere, a hub for the beverage industry's future, offering expert insights, demonstrations, and workshops on modern beverage innovation, advanced water production technology, functional drinks and craft alcohol, and industry technologies and trends. A special seminar on "Hydration & Health: The Role of Beverages in Health and Longevity" will be held by the Thai Beverage Industry Association, inviting industry entrepreneurs and interested parties to attend.

Emil Haddad, General Manager for Southeast Asia at Husky Technologies Limited, a leading technology company in machinery and injection molding systems, shared perspectives on the beverage industry.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Community

Teacher Rushes to Help Children in Distress as Parents Fight, Urges Against Domestic Violence

A teacher in Chaiyaphum province rescued three frightened children from their parents' violent quarrel, then posted the incident online to raise awareness about domestic violence's impact on young people.

4h ago Khaosod

A teacher was moved to action when she discovered three children aged 7-12 sitting rigidly with their backs turned to their quarreling parents. Teacher Suphawadee, known as Teacher Gook, 29, recounted the incident that occurred on May 15 at approximately 3:30 p.m. while she was returning from teaching at a school in Chaiyaphum province. She heard loud arguing at a nearby shop and initially thought it was joking, but when the shopkeeper mentioned such incidents happened regularly—sometimes with people knocking on the door for help between 4-5 p.m.—she realized it was serious. She grabbed her phone to record for protection and approached the scene, where she found the three children frozen in fear. Recognizing one child as a former student, she called out and the child came to her, eventually convincing all three to step outside away from the conflict.

Teacher Gook explained that she posted the video on social media because she wanted to prevent domestic violence from being normalized, noting that children absorb these behaviors and it becomes the foundation of their development. She emphasized that family institutions are crucial and that what children witness shapes who they become. She warned parents not to use violence in their homes, as today's children will become the nation's future leaders. After that day, she found the house closed and never saw the children at school again, hearing they may have moved to Bangkok with their mother.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Groundbreaking for Red Line Extension Talangchan-Salaya Scheduled for July 15, Opening Set for July 2029

Thailand's State Railway signed a 20-billion-baht contract to extend the Red Line from Talangchan to Salaya, with construction beginning July 15 and the new service launching in 2029.

4h ago Khaosod

The State Railway of Thailand has signed a construction contract with the Unique engineering consortium to build the Red Line extension from Talangchan to Salaya, valued at over 20 billion baht, with groundbreaking set for July 15 and opening in July 2029. Anan Phothnim Daeng, acting governor of the State Railway of Thailand, announced that on May 19, 2026, the railway signed the contract with a joint venture between Unique Engineering and Construction Public Company Limited and Trustee Construction Limited. The Sirinaj-Talangchan-Salaya section and three additional stations—Phra Ram VI Bridge, Banggrok-MEA, and Ban Chimplee—have a combined budget of 14,720 million baht, while the Rangsit to Thammasat University Rangsit Center section has a budget of 6,057 million baht. Construction is expected to begin July 15 and take three years, completing in June 2032 and opening for service in 2029. The Sirinaj-Talangchan-Salaya section spans 20.50 kilometers with 13.83 kilometers at ground level and 6.67 kilometers elevated, featuring nine stations: Sirinaj, Bangkhunnon, Talad Nam Talangchan, Phra Ram VI Bridge, Banggrok-MEA, Ban Chimplee, Kanchanaphisek, Salathammasonpon, and Salaya. Construction areas use primarily railway land with no land acquisition required. The Rangsit to Thammasat University Rangsit Center section spans 8.84 kilometers at ground level with four stations: Khlong Neung, Bangkok University, Chiangrak, and Thammasat Rangsit Center, mostly utilizing railway land with approximately 14 acres of land requisition for station and access road construction. When operational, the project will reduce travel time from Pathumthani to Bangkok and improve access to the Thonburi-Salaya area through the main rail system, alleviating traffic congestion while promoting economic development around the stations.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Teeraphatt Fulfills His Dream with Thai National Team Call-up and Playing in Japan

Young Thai footballer Teeraphatt Prue Thong earned his first senior national team call-up after impressing with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo in Japan's J2 League, viewing the selection as a dream come true but just the start of his career.

4h ago Khaosod

Teeraphatt Prue Thong has revealed that his first senior call-up to the Thai national team is the fulfillment of his highest dream, but he views it as just the beginning of his journey. The footballer has performed impressively with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo in Japan's J2 League, appearing in nine special season matches with one goal and four assists, helping his team secure second place in the zone. He has now been selected for Thailand's senior national team for the first time for June's FIFA international window, where Thailand will warm up against Kuwait and China.

The Thai national team star said: "I'm delighted to be selected for the senior national team because it's been my dream. I'm not sure how quickly this came, but I've worked hard to perform well. As for age, I don't think it matters—we just have to prove ourselves on the pitch."

"My expectations for this camp aren't high; I just want to give my all. If I get the chance, I have to make it count. Coming to Japan, I have seniors like Check Suvichuk Saraisat here with me, which makes adaptation much easier than going somewhere with no Thai people. Plus, Mew (Narusan Chumpali) is here as an interpreter, guiding me both on and off the pitch, taking care of everything. We talk constantly, which helps me feel relaxed and at home."

"I still think there are many areas I need to develop. I don't think I'm playing well enough yet, and after every match I review my performance to see where I went wrong. Everything feels like a dream right now—playing in Japan, being selected for the Thai national team. But seeing that we're still in the J2 League, I think this is just the beginning. I want to reach the J League. My hunger is still completely there. My main focus is playing football."

"I want to thank all the fans for supporting me, and all Thais living in Japan. Thank you for cheering me on, and please give me your support."

Thailand's warm-up matches during June's FIFA international window consist of two matches: June 5 at 7:30 PM against Kuwait (ranked 134th globally) at True Bli Stadium, with tickets available at https://bit.ly/3R8o5bn, and June 9 against China at Huanglong Sports Center, broadcast on Channel 32.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
Loading more…
Endless reading Scroll to read. When you reach the bottom, keep scrolling. A bar fills, and the next story slides in when it's full.
↑ ↓ or Space