Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Democrat Party to Submit Social Security Bill Draft; Nattapong Points to Citizens and Insured Workers as Driving Force for Parliamentary Passage

The Democrat Party submitted a social security bill draft to Parliament, arguing that 20 million insured workers and public support are essential for passage, while calling for professional management of the fund independent of civil servic

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, at Bang Pho intersection, Democrat Party members led by Nattapong Ruangpanya, party list MP and party leader Sirikanya Tanskul, deputy party leader Rakchanok Srinok, Sia Champathong, Thanaporn Wijanthorn, Sahasawat Koomkhong (Chonburi MP), and Panida Mongkolsawat (Samut Prakan MP), along with citizens, marched to Parliament House to submit the Democrat Party's social security bill draft.

Nattapong explained that successfully pushing the bill through requires public support, especially from the 20 million insured workers whose contributions form a fund larger than the national budget. These funds must be managed transparently and professionally with accountability to the insured workers.

Sahasawat highlighted that over the past year, Social Security Fund management has faced serious problems with no transparency about fund usage. He stressed that while contributions come from three parties, management remains under civil service control despite civil servants not being beneficiaries themselves. He argued that government officials lack the expertise for professional fund management, resulting in low returns and sustainability concerns. Sahasawat called for removing the Social Security Office from the civil service system and appointing professional managers.

When asked if the Democrat Party alone has enough votes to push the bill through, Nattapong stated that discussions with the government have been ongoing, but the crucial factor is the voice of insured workers. If the House approves it, Senate passage should face no obstacles. He expressed confidence that no political party would oppose legislation benefiting the people, as all parties campaigned on similar promises during elections.

Regarding reports of a 4 billion baht fund discrepancy, Sahasawat said his team continues investigating the Social Security Board and has not received clear clarification from office officials about how the data was incorrectly recorded. Without documentary evidence confirming the error details, the information remains unconfirmed. The Democrat Party is planning to formally establish a committee to investigate the matter.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Bang Saen Beach Packed with Holidaymakers as Labor Day Crowds Escape the Heat

Bang Saen beach drew holiday crowds on May 1 despite traffic congestion, but vendors say business remains sluggish as families cut spending on school expenses and fuel costs deter travel.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, Bang Saen beach in Saen Suk subdistrict, Muang district, Chon Buri province, was swarming with visitors from across the region during the Labor Day holiday. Traffic congestion choked the main road leading to the beach and the beachfront promenade, while families sprawled across sandy areas and under beach umbrellas for meals. Both children and adults happily waded into the refreshingly cool seawater to escape the intense heat.

Thanapol, a beverage vendor at Bang Saen beach, noted that while today seemed busy, it was a far cry from last year's Labor Day. The beach still had empty spaces, whereas normally it would be completely packed. Business this year has been sluggish despite the tourist numbers because parents are cutting expenses to pay for school tuition and uniforms.

Anant, an inflatable tube rental operator, reported that while tourists appeared numerous, they were fewer than expected. Visitors are spending cautiously due to the upcoming school term and high fuel prices have deterred travel compared to previous years. His daily earnings have plummeted to nearly one-quarter of normal holiday revenue—dropping from 4,000-5,000 baht on typical holidays to just 400 baht on regular days and about 1,000 baht during festival days.

Yuttapoom, 31, who traveled from Min Buri with his family, said he chose Bang Saen for its pleasant atmosphere and proximity. Despite heavy crowds and traffic difficulties, he found the trip rewarding once he got his family into the water. He was impressed by the affordable yet delicious food and the beautiful, cool seawater that made an excellent summer escape.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Deputy PM Ekniti Says Thai Help Thai Plus Program Won't Make Cabinet Meeting on May 5, Delayed to Next Week

Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphat announced that the Thai Help Thai Plus program, which includes the Half-Half Plus cash handout scheme, has been delayed and will not be presented to the Cabinet on May 5. The delay is due to pending confirmation of exact budget figures and the loan framework, with approval now expected the following week. Two related financial measures—the 2025 budget reallocation bill and a borrowing decree worth 400-500 billion baht—will be presented to the Cabinet on May 5.

1 May Khaosod

The Thai Help Thai Plus initiative, including the Half-Half Plus cash handout project and other vulnerable group assistance measures, will not be brought before the Cabinet on May 5. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Ekniti Nitithanpraphat announced that an Economic Cabinet meeting must be held first to approve the 2025 budget reallocation bill and the borrowing decree. The Economic Cabinet meeting was originally scheduled for May 4 but falls on a public holiday, and the Prime Minister has yet to reschedule it.

Nitithanpraphat explained that the budget reallocation amount is still being confirmed and will be discussed with the Budget Bureau today to determine how much in delayed disbursements and uncontracted funds remain. If funding proves insufficient, the government will tap a borrowing decree with a framework of either 400 billion or 500 billion baht, still under consideration.

"In the May 5 Cabinet meeting, the Finance Ministry will propose approval of two items: the 2025 budget reallocation bill and the issuance of the borrowing decree," Nitithanpraphat said. "The Thai Help Thai Plus measures, including the Half-Half Plus program, will be presented for approval by the Economic Cabinet and the full Cabinet next week."

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand Pickleball Championship Kicks Off with Big K, Big A, and Taya Pushing Sport to International Level

Thailand's newly recognized pickleball sport held its national championship with top sports officials pledging support for international development. The Thailand Pickleball Championship 2026 took place in Pathum Thani with competitions for all age groups and a separate wheelchair category, marking strong government backing for the sport's growth. Officials outlined plans to elevate pickleball toward Olympic recognition and international excellence within the coming years.

1 May Khaosod

Dr. Kongsak Yodmanee, director of the Sports Authority of Thailand (SAT), together with Prof. Pimol Srivirk, chair of the Thai Olympic Committee and advisor to the Pickleball Association, and Taya Teepsuwan, president of the Thai Pickleball Association, officially opened the 2026 Thailand Pickleball Championship (Thailand Pickleball Championship 2026 Presented by BRAGG) held May 1-3 at Pickleball Warehouse in Rangsit, Pathum Thani Province. A wheelchair pickleball competition was held separately on May 3 at the Benchamakitti Sports Center.

Dr. Kongsak noted that pickleball is a newly recognized sport that the Sports Authority and Thai Olympic Committee recently approved under Thai sports law. He praised the association for organizing both international and domestic competitions within a short timeframe, particularly for including wheelchair pickleball, which aligns with SAT's mission to promote sports participation across all segments of society. Looking ahead, SAT aims to work with the association to develop pickleball toward international excellence by securing its inclusion in national youth and national sports programs and establishing membership in the International Pickleball Federation, which must first be recognized by the International Olympic Committee.

Prof. Pimol Srivirk noted that pickleball is an emerging global sport gaining worldwide recognition due to its fun, ease of play, and accessibility to all ages. He commended the tournament organizers for their high-quality execution and expressed hope for more frequent competitions, ideally expanding to other provinces to grow the player base and develop Thailand's national team potential.

Taya Teepsuwan reported that pickleball has grown rapidly over the past 3-4 years, with Thailand seeing a 40 percent increase in players over the past year. He attributed this growth to the sport's accessibility across all ages and ease of learning, and announced plans to continue organizing competitions to develop more athletes who can eventually represent Thailand internationally.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Honda Committed to Customer Care and Sustainable Growth with Thai Society

Honda Automobile Thailand operates over 200 service centers and an Asian Parts hub in Thailand serving the region, delivering genuine parts to Bangkok within one day and remote areas within three days to ensure customer peace of mind.

1 May Khaosod

Honda Automobile (Thailand) underscores its commitment to sustainable business operations alongside Thai society through diverse product development tailored to every lifestyle and exceptional after-sales service. The company operates over 200 service centers throughout the country and maintains Honda's Asian Parts Center, serving as the regional hub for Asia and Oceania.

Located in Thailand, the center spans over 129,600 square meters and stocks genuine, high-quality parts for every Honda model for more than 20 years. The company has developed advanced warehouse management and logistics systems utilizing modern technology for fast and accurate parts distribution.

Parts are delivered to Bangkok and surrounding areas within one day, provincial areas within two days, and remote areas within three days, ensuring Honda customers drive with confidence and peace of mind on every journey.

Honda's commitment—"Whatever Honda model you own, long-term peace of mind"—reflects the brand's promise to remain alongside Thai people while growing sustainably with Thai society across all eras.

With over 40 years of business experience in Thailand, Honda extends its commitment beyond customer care through quality products and services. The company continues investing steadily in Thailand's development, making it one of Honda's key global manufacturing bases. Honda operates a production facility in Prachuap Khiri Khan province manufacturing vehicles for domestic sale and export, featuring efficient, environmentally-friendly production technology that strengthens Thailand's automotive industry chain. The operation utilizes components from local manufacturers while developing Thai workforce capabilities—all reflecting Honda's business conduct rooted in social responsibility, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, while enhancing Thailand's long-term competitive industrial capabilities.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Businesswoman Files Fraud Complaint Against Notorious Amulet Dealer Over Brand Luxury Goods Scam and Land Sales, Bounced Checks Leave Her 300 Million Baht in Losses

A businesswoman filed fraud charges against an amulet dealer who conned her out of 300 million baht through fake luxury goods sales and overvalued land deals between 2022 and 2025, with bounced checks and forged documents allegedly signed w

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, a prominent businesswoman authorized her lawyer to file charges with the Crime Suppression Division against a notorious amulet dealer and related parties for fraud and other related offenses. The case dates back to June 2022 when the businesswoman first met the amulet dealer, who befriended her and offered to purchase branded handbags at high prices, claiming he would resell them for profit. The dealer later presented mortgaged land for sale to the victim in multiple parcels, accepting payment by check rather than cash. Initial checks cleared, but subsequent checks bounced repeatedly. On April 2, 2024, the dealer requested a meeting to create a debt acknowledgment letter, proposing an 84-installment payment plan at 5.76 million baht per installment, with 152 amulets offered as collateral security. Problems with bounced checks persisted. On July 2, 2025, the dealer arranged a meeting at an amulet shop to execute a supplementary agreement. During this meeting, the dealer allegedly encouraged the businesswoman to consume alcohol until she lost consciousness before having her sign the disadvantageous document. In March 2025, when the victim had the amulets and land appraised, she discovered the properties were overvalued by nearly double their actual market value. Additionally, the branded goods were never sold as promised but were allegedly kept for personal use with no public sales announcement. The victim believes the defendant never intended to conduct legitimate business or repay debts from the outset, with total damages estimated at approximately 300 million baht. She has now formally filed charges, and investigators have accepted the case for prosecution recommendations.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Suphan Buri Pushes Full Steam Ahead to Prepare for Olympic Day Suphan Buri 2026

Suphan Buri Province and the Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage held their first preparatory meeting for Olympic Day 2026, set for June 27-28 at Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium. The event will feature the 'Let's Move Together' concept, incorporating running activities, cultural programs, community engagement, and an Olympic Day Fair to promote local businesses and tourism. Registration for participants will open on May 10-15, 2026.

1 May Khaosod

The Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage, in collaboration with Suphan Buri Province, the Ministry of Industry, the Suphan Buri Provincial Administrative Organization, and public and private sector partners, held their first preparatory meeting for the 'Olympic Day 2026' event scheduled for June 27-28, 2026 at Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium.

Leading executives and agency representatives attended the meeting, which was chaired by Industry Minister Warawut Silparacha, alongside Dr. Suwanna Silparacha, Deputy Chair of the Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage, Nathpong Songwanjit, Suphan Buri Governor, Dr. Udom Prongfa, President of the Suphan Buri Provincial Administrative Organization, Supavatthana Jongsiri, Chair of Comart Production Company, and representatives from government agencies, partner organizations, and relevant networks. Together, they established operational guidelines aligned with international Olympic policies and aimed to promote participation across all segments of society.

For 2026, the event operates under the core concept 'Let's Move Together,' inviting people of all genders, ages, and groups to move together for good health, friendship, equality, and mutual respect, all grounded in Olympic values of excellence, friendship, and respect.

The meeting discussed walking and running activities alongside cultural promotion initiatives, youth inspiration programs, social activities, and environmentally friendly event planning. Organizers will develop an 'Olympic Day Fair' as a creative activity space for families, communities, businesses, shops, and local Suphan Buri products, featuring group aerobic exercises and musical performances.

The event aims to boost local economic development, stimulate tourism, and create opportunities for local entrepreneurs through the participation of runners, families, and people from across the country. This inaugural meeting marks an important integration point for multi-sector cooperation to make 'Olympic Day Suphan Buri 2026' more than just a running event—it's a space for society to move together under the 'Let's Move Together' concept. The Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage and Suphan Buri Province have scheduled Olympic Day 2026 for June 27-28, 2026 at Suphan Buri Provincial Stadium, Ruai Yai Subdistrict, Muang District. Registration will open May 10-15, 2026, with further details available through the Thai Olympic Committee under Royal Patronage Facebook page.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Nonthaburi Pheu Chart Lawmakers Explain Prime Minister Reception as Proper Hosting Protocol

A Nonthaburi Pheu Chart MP defended his appearance at a Prime Minister event as proper hosting protocol, saying he seized the opportunity to submit a letter about local infrastructure issues including the M-81 expressway and water pipes.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2025, at Bang Pho intersection, Nathpong Ruengpanyawutti, a Pheu Chart party list MP and party leader, addressed the controversy surrounding Suthat Mesiri, a Nonthaburi Pheu Chart MP, appearing at an event where Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected goods for the Thai Help Thai Plus program aimed at reducing living costs.

According to inquiries, Suthat intended to submit a letter directly to the prime minister regarding local problem-solving efforts, though the timing may have required the district chief or officials to receive it instead.

Suthat explained that he had previously raised concerns about the M-81 expressway and broken water pipes in parliament. Given the opportunity to meet the PM and deputy PM at the Thai Help Thai Plus market opening in Bang Yai, he seized the chance to submit his letter as one approach to addressing local issues. Upon arrival, he encountered the district chief first, who agreed to handle the matter.

Since Bang Yai was the event venue and Suthat was the only MP representing that area, he received the prime minister in his capacity as the local host, which he considers proper protocol. When asked about a photograph showing him pushing a cart for the PM, Suthat explained that in that crowded moment, a cart came between them, so they pushed it through—standard service from a local host to a visiting guest.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Honda Revs Up the Energy for Manchester United and Liverpool Fans with Epic Red Derby Activities

Honda is organizing an exciting pre-match event for Manchester United and Liverpool fans ahead of their May 3rd clash, featuring a "Red Derby Journey" where fans ride the new Honda UC3 electric motorcycle through Bangkok with team-themed activities and competitions. The campaign culminates in a watch party at Mono Studio where fans can meet legendary strikers Andy Cole and Robbie Fowler, combining football passion with the promotion of Honda's latest electric motorcycle technology.

1 May Khaosod

Honda, the official supporter of Premier League live broadcasts, is creating excitement around the prestigious global football showdown by organizing a pre-Red Derby event titled "Honda EV UC3: Your First Move to Win the Red Derby!" Under the concept "The game hasn't started yet...but the rivalry has!", the campaign invites true fans of Manchester United and Liverpool to experience football in a new way by riding the latest New Honda UC3 electric motorcycle through central Bangkok to build momentum and confidence before the match on May 3rd.

The event brings together 22 riders—11 Manchester United fans and 11 Liverpool fans—mirroring the actual players who will take the field in the Red Derby clash. Participants embark on the "Red Derby Journey" following team-specific routes with themed experiences designed to get fans hyped up before they meet for a FRIENDLY MATCH featuring fun competitions.

Manchester United supporters start their journey as the Red Devils with a legendary "duck" menu, enjoying roasted duck at Poolsinn Restaurant, then ride the New Honda UC3 to Lumpini Park for a paddle-boat duck race across the water, capturing fun team moments. Liverpool fans head to the Ghosts' territory, beginning at Tiph Sammai Pad Thai, a legendary restaurant near the old city gate, to fuel up with the reality that even in a "ghost's den" the food is accessible and delicious. They then proceed to Wat Suthat Thepwararam at the Swing area to pay respects to Buddha and bring good fortune to their Premier League schedule.

After completing the Red Derby Journey, both teams enter the FRIENDLY MATCH featuring three exciting competitions: Boost Kick, a penalty shootout with oversized shoes reflecting the UC3's rapid acceleration performance; 1 Charge 1 Shot, where players kick a football to stop closest to 122 kilometers, showcasing the bike's maximum range on a single charge; and Reverse Dribbling, a backward dribbling challenge through a set course, highlighting the UC3's convenient reverse parking assistance system.

For football fans not wanting to miss this glorious evening, Honda invites Red and Bird supporters to unite and cheer at the "MONOMAX WATCH PARTY: RED MATCH" between Manchester United and Liverpool with an opportunity to meet world-class legendary strikers Andy Cole and Robbie Fowler on Sunday, May 3rd, starting at 4:00 PM at Mono Studio.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

JAS Sees Rare Opportunity to Secure World Cup Live Broadcasting Rights as Thais Have Watched for Free—Unless Government Steps In

JAS is weighing whether to bid for Thailand's 2026 World Cup broadcasting rights, a 1.3 billion baht investment complicated by Thais having watched the tournament free for two decades. The company says it would only pursue the deal with gov

1 May Khaosod

Dr. Sorachai Asavaprabha, CEO of Jasmine International Public Company Limited (JAS), revealed that following Monomax's launch of three new packages for Premier League, FA Cup, and world-class sports broadcasting next season—Entertainment (199 baht/month), Sports Standard (399 baht/month), and Sports Premium (599 baht/month)—the company has upgraded its world-class streaming technology and content to avoid repeating mistakes from previous years.

Dr. Sorachai acknowledged concerns about the price increases, explaining that while fans are the company's priority, the new pricing offers greater value and remains competitive compared to historical rates. The platform will continue adding premium global content. Last year's user base exceeded 1.5 million, and the company expects continued growth this year through new features and add-ons, backed by marketing support.

Regarding negotiations for 2026 World Cup broadcasting rights, Dr. Sorachai explained that while multiple parties have approached JAS, acquiring these rights presents a unique challenge. "World Cup football is a difficult case because it's been free for Thai viewers for the past 20 years," he noted. The live broadcasting rights are valued at approximately 1.3 billion baht. Although JAS has the purchasing power and opportunity, implementing a paid model is challenging due to communication difficulties and managing audience expectations. "We would only consider it if the government provides support and we operate as a strong streaming platform with an established customer base and robust content distribution capabilities," he stated. Currently, no Thai broadcaster has secured the 2026 World Cup rights. The tournament will be held in Mexico, Canada, and the United States from June 11 to July 19. Six ASEAN nations have already purchased broadcasting rights: Cambodia, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Timor-Leste, and Vietnam. Five ASEAN countries remain without rights: Thailand, Myanmar, Malaysia, Brunei, and Laos.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Police

Labor Minister Juldej Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Rider's Death in Traffic Accident, Accelerates Social Security Compensation and Pushes New Law Protecting Informal Workers

Labor Minister Juldej expressed condolences over a 27-year-old delivery rider's traffic death and ordered accelerated Social Security compensation while pushing legislative reforms to protect informal platform workers.

1 May Khaosod

On May 1, 2026, Labor Minister Juldej Amornvivat and leader of the Pheu Thai Party expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of Alongkorn, a 27-year-old rider who lost his life in a traffic accident while performing his duties. He immediately ordered the Social Security Office (SSO) to verify the victim's benefits, noting initial findings confirmed the deceased was previously insured. The minister instructed officials to examine all accumulated benefits and ensure the family receives the full amount owed as quickly as possible.

Regarding long-term solutions, Minister Juldej emphasized that safety and welfare for platform workers are top priorities. The Pheu Thai Party is preparing to submit a draft amendment to the Social Security Act to establish equitable basic welfare systems, and the Labor Ministry is similarly studying reforms to adapt the law to modern digital work models, ensuring equal protection, benefits, and workplace safety for all workers.

The minister stressed that all workers' lives have equal value and dignity, and this tragic loss serves as an expensive lesson reminding the state that welfare systems must modernize. As both Labor Minister and Pheu Thai leader, he committed to fully advancing this legislation to deliver justice and dignified protection to all informal workers as vital engines of the nation's economy.

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