Lanta & News
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National

Confirmed! May 25 Registration Opens for Kon La Khreung Plus and State Welfare Card; New Poor Card Conditions Under Review

Registration for Kon La Khreung Plus opens May 25, distributing 4,000 baht over four months to approximately 30 million eligible Thais through the Pao Tang app. The State Welfare Card will also accept new registrations with updated eligibil

6 May Khaosod

Confirmed! Registration opens May 25 for Kon La Khreung Plus with approximately 30 million expected beneficiaries, alongside the State Welfare Card and review of updated poor card conditions.

According to Finance Ministry sources, the ministry will submit the Kon La Khreung Plus project and State Welfare Card top-ups to the Cabinet for approval on May 19. Registration will then open on May 25 through the Pao Tang application, with funds available starting June 1, 2026, as previously announced by the government.

Kon La Khreung Plus Details: - Registration period: one week - Total distribution: 4,000 baht over 4 months (1,000 baht monthly) - Cost sharing: 60% government contribution, 40% participant contribution - Estimated eligible beneficiaries: 30 million

State Welfare Card/Poor Card: - Registration period: approximately one month - New registration based on conditions being finalized by the Finance Ministry - Initial registration requires name and national ID number via Pao Tang app - Verification required to confirm eligibility

For existing State Welfare Card holders, the base group of 13.4 million (currently 13.2 million following deaths) will receive increased monthly allowances from 300 baht to 1,000 baht for four months. Unlike Kon La Khreung Plus, the government provides no matching contribution.

New State Welfare Card registration results expected within 2 months. Existing cardholders will receive 1,000 baht monthly for the first 2 months. Those losing eligibility may access Kon La Khreung Plus in the subsequent 2-month period, potentially requiring supplementary registrations.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Thaeng Leads Opposition Shadow Cabinet, Urges Government to Reassess Transport and Fishing Relief Amid Oil Crisis Hardship

Opposition leader Nattapong Ruangpanyawuth led Pheu Thai's shadow cabinet in calling on the government to reassess relief measures for the transport and fishing sectors, which are suffering severe hardship from the ongoing energy crisis. The shadow cabinet outlined three key priorities: amplifying neglected public voices, addressing strategic issues like the land bridge project, and fast-tracking urgent legislation including a 400 billion baht loan decree. Specific concerns raised include fuel access problems for small-scale fishers, illegal seafood imports undercutting domestic prices, and allegations that government relief measures may be inequitable or insufficient.

6 May Khaosod

At 10:30 AM on May 6, 2025 at Parliament, Nattapong Ruangpanyawuth, list-based MP and Pheu Thai party leader, led the opposition shadow cabinet (shadow government) in making a statement following their meeting.

Nattapong stated that this was the first meeting of Pheu Thai's shadow cabinet, aimed at demonstrating how weekly government decisions centered on the people's welfare could improve citizens' lives week by week. Rather than individual-to-individual comparisons or pitting shadow ministers against real ministers, their approach focuses on agenda-by-agenda examination driven by public concerns.

Nattapong outlined three main priorities: First, monitoring and amplifying voices of overlooked citizens, particularly regarding the energy crisis impacting transportation and fishing sector operators. Second, forward-thinking on major issues like the land bridge project, questioning whether government decisions favor superpowers or prioritize public interest, and examining geopolitical implications. Third, calling for urgent measures, including fast-tracking the Clean Air Act and a 400 billion baht loan decree previously mentioned.

Nattapong emphasized using this platform to reflect concerns not reaching the government and offer recommendations, with Pheu Thai serving as an intermediary to the administration.

For fishing communities, critical issues include fuel, debt, and seafood prices. B20 biodiesel is difficult to access, especially for small-scale fishers unable to pool purchases due to fuel pump regulations. This represents a compounding crisis requiring relief measures for debt-burdened fishers who cannot operate. Additionally, while some neighboring countries face trade restrictions, illegal seafood imports undercut Thai fishers' fair pricing. Short-term, the sector seeks stricter import controls; long-term, fishers express readiness to transition to clean energy.

For transport operators, concerns focus on whether government relief measures are equitable or neglecting some. With unemployment rising and job losses causing income problems, the opposition urges government to better calibrate assistance programs.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Sharp Criticism Over Borrowing for Road Projects; Siripongse Insists Emergency Decree Reduces Public Burden

Transport Minister Siripongse Angkhsakulkiati defended the government's 400-billion-baht emergency decree borrowing, dismissing opposition claims of blank checks and arguing the funds will directly benefit citizens rather than fund infrastructure projects. The 200 billion baht will assist people affected by high fuel prices, while another 200 billion will help reduce the transition burden to clean energy through subsidies and solar installation support. Siripongse stressed the urgent necessity of the measure given the current economic impacts on the public.

6 May Khaosod

At 11:45 a.m. on May 6, 2025, at Government House, Siripongse Angkhsakulkiati, Transport Minister and Deputy Leader of the Bhumjaithai Party, defended the government's 400-billion-baht emergency decree borrowing against opposition criticism of it being a blank check. He argued it's not a blank check, but simply an unfamiliar approach to what past governments have done. Previously, borrowed funds went toward infrastructure projects like roads and construction, but this time all money will reach the public directly through the Thai Helps Thai Plus program, with details to follow from the Finance Ministry. Of the 400 billion baht, 200 billion will assist people affected by high fuel prices through direct subsidies. The remaining 200 billion will help reduce the burden of transitioning from fossil fuels to clean energy, potentially through shared interest subsidies or solar rooftop installation support. When asked about opposition concerns regarding the emergency necessity, Siripongse emphasized that remaining central budget reserves must be kept for security purposes, and current funds are insufficient until the fiscal year 70 budget becomes available in October. He stated that with people already suffering, waiting is not an option and immediate action is necessary. When pressed on whether additional borrowing would be needed if the 400 billion baht runs out, Siripongse deferred comment, saying today's focus is managing the current situation. He expressed confidence that the 200 billion for energy transition will significantly reduce energy consumption and household expenses, helping people break dependence on traditional energy sources. Regarding the Democratic Party's plan to petition the Constitutional Court, Siripongse said that is their right, but he believes the Prime Minister's proposal and the government's legal team have ensured compliance with all conditions for issuing the emergency decree.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

CMAN Controls Costs and Diversifies Risk with Expansion into India and ASEAN to Navigate Energy Crisis

Chememan, a top-10 global lime producer, is expanding operations into India and ASEAN markets while implementing cost-control and risk-diversification strategies to weather the energy crisis. The company plans to increase electric truck usage to 50% by 2026 and invest in alternative energy sources like solar farms, with 70-80% of customers able to pass energy cost increases to end prices in the short term. The company reported 361 million baht in net profit for 2025 and approved dividend payments of 144 million baht, reflecting strengthened financial position and operational efficiency.

6 May Khaosod

Adisak Laochan, Chief Executive Officer of Chememan Public Company Limited (CMAN), a lime and chemical products manufacturer under the CHEMEMAN brand, has announced that the company is accelerating operational efficiency improvements to manage risks effectively and mitigate the impact of energy prices, which account for 25-30% of total costs, along with significant freight rate increases. Approximately 70-80% of the company's customers can adjust pricing based on costs within a short timeframe, and nearly all customers can adjust prices according to contract terms in severe situations.

The company is pursuing aggressive strategies through energy diversification and intensive supply chain management, including plans to increase electric truck (EV) usage to 50% of total fleet needs by 2026 to reduce oil price impacts, implementing mixed energy approaches in production using coal, gas, and electricity, and investing in alternative energy sources such as solar farms for long-term efficiency gains.

"These cost-saving measures are being studied for feasibility across our foreign business units. During this period, the company will not enter into long-term contracts with fixed pricing, and will adjust product prices promptly to reflect increased operational costs," the statement said.

For fiscal 2025, the company recorded net profit of 361 million baht after significantly reducing debt, positioning the company for future business expansion while maintaining consistent dividend payments. The shareholders' meeting approved dividend payments of 0.15 baht per share, totaling 144 million baht, representing approximately 40% of net profit and reflecting stable cash flow and strong financial discipline.

Adisak stated that in today's world, uncertainty is commonplace, and while the company does not view business operations as easy, it is confident that an increasingly robust business structure will enable significantly better management of volatility than in the past.

"This situation also presents business opportunities for the company, particularly in India and Vietnam markets, where we are implementing regional growth strategies through expansion and acquisition in strategic areas including Indochina, India, and Australia to build long-term strength, despite Middle East tensions creating ripples in the global economy," he added.

Currently, the company ranks among the world's top 10 lime producers with annual production capacity exceeding 1.2 million tons. Lime is a critical basic chemical used extensively across numerous industries. Chememan operates high-quality limestone mines in Thailand and Vietnam, and operates lime production plants using modern technology and innovation in Thailand, Vietnam, and India, plus a distribution center in Australia, enabling the company to expand its customer base across multiple industrial groups while focusing on developing high-value-added products for target customers.

However, the company exports 60% of its total lime sales volume to over 30 countries across Asia, Australia, and Africa through an extensive business network, which is a significant factor driving growth opportunities.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Police

Truck with Failed Brakes Crashes into Huai Rai Police Checkpoint; Officer Injured and Receives 5 Stitches

A truck with failed brakes crashed into a police checkpoint in Phrae Province on May 6, injuring an officer who suffered a torn ear requiring five stitches. The truck owner agreed to cover all damages from the collision.

6 May Khaosod

A truck with failed brakes crashed into the checkpoint at Huai Rai Police Station in Den Chai District, Phrae Province, injuring a police officer who received 5 stitches. The truck owner has agreed to cover all damages.

On May 6, 2025, a Lamphun-registered truck traveling from Den Chai District toward Uttaradit Province approached the checkpoint at high speed around 6:55 AM while attempting to swerve around another vehicle. The truck collided forcefully with the checkpoint just as police were changing shifts. At the time of the incident, 27-year-old Police Officer Nopkhun Jongraks was making coffee inside a tent with other officers.

The crash caused Officer Jongraks to be struck by a steel pole, resulting in a torn ear. He was rushed to Somdet Phra Yupharaj Den Chai Hospital, where doctors stitched his wound with 5 stitches. His condition is stable. Initial negotiations with the truck owner have resulted in an agreement to cover all damages. Den Chai Police Station commander reported the incident to the Phrae Provincial Police Commander.

Huai Rai Police Station is urging the public to exercise caution while driving. Warning signs are posted 1-2 kilometers before the checkpoint to encourage drivers to reduce speed, facilitate police operations in checking for violations, and reduce accident risks.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Parliament Approves Nophadol Pherierueksa as Secretary-General of Legislative Drafting Committee with 436 Votes

Thailand's Parliament has approved Nophadol Pherierueksa as Secretary-General of the Legislative Drafting Committee with 436 votes. A ruling party parliamentarian raised concerns about the secretary-general holding positions on government and corporate boards while serving in what should be an independent role. Deputy Prime Minister Pokorn defended the appointment by citing civil service regulations that technically govern the position.

6 May Khaosod

Parliament has approved Nophadol Pherierueksa as Secretary-General of the Legislative Drafting Committee with 436 votes on May 6, 2569. During the House of Representatives meeting chaired by Speaker Sophon Saranom, Deputy Prime Minister Pokorn Nilprapan explained that the position has been vacant since March 30. The Cabinet approved Nophadol's nomination on April 21 to fill the vacancy. According to Section 63(3) of the Legislative Drafting Committee Act B.E. 2522, the secretary-general must be a civil servant.

Parliamentarian Nattavut Buapprathum of the Pracharaj Party raised concerns about the distinction between position-specific and person-specific qualifications. He questioned whether the secretary-general's position allows serving as a board chairman in government agencies, state enterprises, or private companies, and whether it would ensure neutrality. He cited examples of Pokorn previously serving on Bank of Thailand and other boards while as secretary-general, and noted that Nophadol similarly held corporate positions but recently changed to independent director status on April 8—timing that coincided suspiciously with government formation efforts.

Nattavut questioned what legal authority permits the secretary-general to sit on various state organization boards and whether it serves national interest. He also noted differences between House and Senate procedures, as the Senate has investigative powers while the House does not.

Pokorn clarified that under Section 63(3) of the Legislative Drafting Committee Act, the secretary-general is classified as a civil servant and thus falls under the Civil Service Act B.E. 2504, which states in Section 83(6) that civil servants cannot serve as managers or executives in private partnerships or companies.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Police

Two Suspects Arrested for Stabbing Death of Young Man, Claimed Anger Over Near-Miss Incident

Two men arrested in Nonthaburi have confessed to fatally stabbing a 27-year-old outside a Bangkok market after a near-collision argument escalated into violence on May 3rd.

6 May Khaosod

Two suspects have been arrested for stabbing a young man to death in front of a market following a near-collision incident that escalated into violence. Police apprehended Worawuth, 26, and Phisitskon, 20, along with a knife and motorcycle used in the crime in the Bang Rak Pattana subdistrict of Bang Bua Thong district, Nonthaburi province.

The incident occurred early morning on May 3rd in front of Thep Charoen Market on Tat Mai Road in Thaling Chan district, Bangkok. Officers arrived to find the victim, Chai Det, 27, with stab wounds to his chest and left rib cage. Medical examination indicated he died from thoracic injuries.

CCTV footage revealed two men on a motorcycle drove in reverse, nearly colliding with the victim who was walking on the road. This triggered a heated argument during which the victim spat on one of them. A physical altercation ensued, and one suspect stabbed the victim twice before fleeing the scene.

Under interrogation, the suspects confessed that while riding home on the motorcycle, they nearly hit the victim while driving in reverse. The victim's angry reaction and spitting provoked the argument that led to the assault. Authorities charged both suspects with joint murder and are proceeding with legal proceedings.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Real Madrid Fans Launch Online Petition to Remove Mbappé from Team – Over 9 Million Signatures

Real Madrid fans have launched an "Mbappé Out" online petition campaign calling for French striker Kylian Mbappé to leave the club, accumulating over 9.1 million signatures. The petition reflects growing discontent among supporters and teammates due to Mbappé's perceived selfish attitude both on and off the pitch. The campaign represents an unprecedented show of disapproval from the club's global fanbase against the star player.

6 May Khaosod

Real Madrid fans have launched an "Mbappé Out" online petition demanding that French striker Kylian Mbappé be removed from the club, with over 9 million signatures collected so far.

Previously, reports indicated that Mbappé was experiencing difficulties at Real Madrid because his teammates in the "White Kings" were unhappy with his perceived selfish attitude both on and off the pitch.

Now the French international is losing support from Real Madrid fans globally, to the point where an online petition has emerged under the "Mbappé Out" campaign with the message: "Real Madrid fans, make your voice heard. If you believe change is necessary, don't stay silent. Sign this petition and stand up for what you believe is best for the club's future."

Currently, over 9.1 million people have signed the campaign.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Chinese man calls mother saying 'I may not come back' before driving through deadly tunnel fire to save trapped driver

A 24-year-old Chinese driver named Zhang Jian risked his life to rescue an injured truck driver from a devastating fire inside a 10-kilometer tunnel, even calling his mother with farewell words during the ordeal. Facing suffocating smoke and near-unconsciousness, he and his passengers managed to successfully drive the injured man to safety, where emergency services were waiting. Zhang's selfless heroism was recognized by authorities with a commendation and reward.

6 May Khaosod

A touching incident unfolded when Zhang Jian, a 24-year-old from Shandong Province, made the selfless decision to risk his life saving an injured person from a burning truck inside the Bao Ta Shan tunnel while traveling home from Shanxi Province. What moved people most was his call to his mother during the rescue, where he spoke words that sounded like a farewell.

While driving through the 10-kilometer tunnel, Zhang encountered a burning truck with two men beside it—one severely injured and the other waving for help amid thick smoke. Without hesitation, Zhang and his car's passengers stopped immediately and helped lift the injured man into the vehicle. Though the victim's legs couldn't fit completely inside, they proceeded with the front door open, causing dense smoke to continuously pour into the car.

To cope with the situation, they poured drinking water on themselves to reduce smoke exposure and slowly drove out of the tunnel, eventually realizing they had several more kilometers to travel. The journey was fraught with unpredictable dangers. At one point, Zhang had to stop to reposition the injured passenger safely and turned on the air conditioning to help clear the smoke. However, his own body began to weaken—he struggled to breathe and nearly lost consciousness multiple times as the path ahead remained shrouded in darkness.

Facing what seemed like death, Zhang called his mother and told her that if he didn't contact her within two hours, it might mean he couldn't escape the tunnel. The words devastated his mother, but she continued encouraging her son to stay strong.

Throughout the ordeal, Zhang and his passengers encouraged each other until they finally successfully drove through the smoke and flames. "When I saw the light at the tunnel's end, I immediately realized how precious life is," he said.

Upon exiting the tunnel, ambulances and police officers were already waiting. The injured passenger's life was saved, and Zhang continued his duty by dropping off his passengers at their destination before heading home.

Later, the injured man's family contacted Zhang to express their gratitude, emphasizing that he didn't just save one life but saved their entire family. When asked if he would do the same in a similar situation, Zhang simply replied he would act the same way without hesitation.

Authorities presented Zhang with a commendation plaque and a reward to honor his bravery.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Viral: Family of 11 Buys House Without Ever Seeing It, Drives Across 3 States and Moves In at 2 AM

A large American family with nine children went viral after purchasing a house without ever seeing it in person, driving across three states from Florida to move in at 2 AM. The family, led by Lexxi Thomas, made an unconditional offer based solely on photos, relying on faith and prayer in their decision. Though the decision sparked online criticism about the house's design, the family maintains their positive experience and deep connection to their new home.

6 May Khaosod

On April 6, a large family sparked worldwide online debate after deciding to purchase a home they had never seen in person. The story of Lexxi Thomas went viral after she posted a TikTok clip revealing how she and her husband decided to take all nine children on a drive across three states from Florida to move into a new house they had never laid eyes on. The family arrived at the home around 2 AM, and the moment they opened the door, all nine children ran inside to explore every corner, turning on lights in each room with audible excitement. Thomas described the moment as filled with thrilling surprise, from the size of the bedrooms to the smallest details inside the house. Though there were some uncertain points, such as storage areas, everything was overshadowed by the feeling that "this is the right house." The decision to purchase happened quickly after the family spent several months searching for homes across multiple states and had nearly agreed to buy another property before changing their minds at the last minute, believing something better was waiting. Thomas revealed that they used faith and prayer as part of their decision-making process, and just three days later, they found this house, which felt right from the moment they saw the photos. Without ever visiting the location in person or even exploring the surrounding neighborhood, the family made an unconditional offer to buy immediately before packing up and moving in later. However, after the clip was shared online, there was considerable criticism, particularly regarding the house layout and certain design choices that netizens found unusual. But Thomas insisted those opinions didn't match the family's actual experience. "We already knew the online world would be like that, but those things don't affect how we feel about this house at all," she stated. Since moving in, the family confirmed that their first impression remained unchanged, and the house has become a place where everyone feels deeply connected.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Scorned Wife Rams Husband on Motorcycle with Car, Kills Him, Then Runs Him Over Again

A 42-year-old woman in Saraburi deliberately rammed her estranged husband's motorcycle with her car on Phaholyothin Road, killing him after he allegedly drained her finances during their eight-month relationship. She then ran him over again

6 May Khaosod

On May 6, 2569, Lieutenant Phanuwat Panrat, an investigator from Saraburi City Police Station, responded to a report of a car hitting a motorcycle on Phaholyothin Road, kilometer 102 (parallel lane entering Saraburi) in Nong Yao subdistrict, Saraburi province. Officers from the Saraburi Red Cross Foundation arrived to assist.

At the scene, a Yamaha Fino motorcycle without license plates was found overturned on the roadside with severe rear-end damage. About 50 meters away, a Honda Jazz sedan with Bangkok license plates was parked with a shattered front bumper, crumpled hood, and broken windshield, likely from the victim's body impact.

Behind the car, officers discovered the critically injured body of Mr. Abhisit (surname withheld), 38 years old, with labored breathing. Despite CPR efforts by rescue workers, he could not be saved. His body showed a fractured right leg and multiple abrasions.

The suspect, Ms. Areey (surname withheld), 42 years old, flagged down a passing car to escape after the incident.

According to rescue workers, the driver was believed to be the victim's wife. She claimed they had quarreled because he had drained her finances. She stated she would turn herself in to Saraburi City Police Station. The victim's wife followed in another vehicle, and upon seeing her husband on his motorcycle, she deliberately rammed him at full speed.

The victim's sister, Ms. Thitipath (surname withheld), explained that the couple frequently argued, likely over money rather than jealousy. She noted the woman had previously threatened to kill him and that the couple had been together only 8-9 months. Each brought a child from previous relationships. The sister recalled the woman had once chased and stabbed her brother with a knife. The couple had separated recently, with the man avoiding the woman's calls.

Police investigators documented the scene and obtained a statement from the suspect. She revealed they had been together for approximately 8 months after her previous husband's death. She received insurance money and subsequently dated the victim, who was her late husband's friend. Both had children from previous relationships.

During their time together, they frequently argued. The victim was prone to cursing and had a volatile temperament. He had previously drunk hard liquor regularly and continued doing so after meeting the suspect, a behavior change that distressed her. The woman had supported him financially, spending approximately 1 million baht.

As her money dwindled and he attempted to distance himself by not answering calls, she waited to ambush him. When she saw him ride out on his motorcycle, she followed in her car. Realizing it was her, he attempted to flee, but she deliberately rammed him in a rage of vengeance.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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