Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Industry Minister Launches Community Skills Program to Boost Local Economy

The Industry Ministry launched a skills training program in Suphan Buri teaching locals to produce herbal products and grain compresses for commercial sale, with graduates expected to earn an extra 10,000 baht monthly.

Industry Minister Launches Community Skills Program to Boost Local Economy
8h ago Khaosod

Industry Minister Weerawuth Silparachai presided over the opening of the DIPROM Community SkillUp practical training workshop in Suphan Buri province for fiscal year 2569. The program focuses on developing professional skills through three main curricula: herbal mosquito repellent and spray production, Thai-patterned herbal compress manufacturing, and high-tech grain compress production—all with commercial potential appealing to both Thai and international consumers.

The initiative aims to cultivate grassroots entrepreneurs by equipping participants with knowledge and skills for supplementary income or small business development, thereby expanding the nation's entrepreneurial base and strengthening local economies. By processing local agricultural and herbal products, the program adds value to raw materials, transforming basic commodities into higher-value products with diverse market applications and creating value across the entire production chain from farmers to retailers.

Training graduates can connect with related business sectors including Thai traditional medicine networks, massage shops, spas, health and beauty retailers, and community gift shops, expanding marketing channels and income opportunities. According to DIPROM director Nattaniya Netysupha, the 150 program participants are expected to increase their average monthly income by approximately 10,000 baht per person, or 120,000 baht annually, generating total economic value of at least 18 million baht yearly.

The program particularly benefits elderly residents, housewives, farmers, and vulnerable groups with limited formal employment access. By providing practical vocational skills, it offers community members alternative income sources, reduces unemployment, and decreases rural-to-urban migration, ultimately strengthening family and community institutions long-term.

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National

Entertainment Figures Mourn Death of Nat Mahaethaep

Entertainment figures have mourned Nat Mahaethaep's death on July 4, 2026, after he faced public controversy with celebrities over appearance fees for a charity football event.

Entertainment Figures Mourn Death of Nat Mahaethaep
8h ago Khaosod

Entertainment figures have joined together to mourn Nat Mahaethaep, who recently faced public controversy with prominent actors and celebrities before his death. They have offered prayers and blessings for his peaceful passage to the afterlife. Nan shared a touching video of her final words of love to her son.

Previously, Water Rapipat and numerous entertainment personalities had publicly discussed Nat Mahaethaep's demand for high appearance fees from actors participating in a football charity event. This prompted Young Sorram to announce his withdrawal from the football event, and Water Rapipat had livestreamed heated criticism of Nat Mahaethaep over the matter.

Recently, social media was shocked when DJ Seed (Arkrat Win Chuansirisuk) posted a tribute announcing Nat Mahaethaep's death on July 4, 2026, along with a heartfelt message: "This journey is a long one and we won't meet again, Phi Nat Mahaethaep. I offer my condolences to you for everything. We have no outstanding issues between us, Phi. I hope you travel peacefully. Just yesterday I was able to visit you. You were tired, Phi. You told me you suspected you wouldn't make it past the end of this month. When I saw your condition, I told our group to hurry and visit you because it wouldn't likely be more than seven days."

DJ Seed continued: "I told you that we've lived a worthwhile life—a life well spent playing football in different places. We grew tired talking about it. I was part of your Mahaethaep team from when it was founded, when it had no reputation, until it became known throughout the country. Regardless of how people know it, your dream was for the team to be recognized. Today you've accomplished that completely. Rest well, Phi Nat Mahaethaep. 4.07.2026."

Tong Chuanchuean posted a tribute saying: "Phi Tong offers condolences and wishes for you to travel to a better realm. Nat Mahaethaep, RIP."

Comedy actor and athlete Jack Thunwa posted: "I offer condolences to my brother Nat Mahaethaep. May you reach a good place and suffer no more. Thank you for the time we spent together. The good things will remain and stay with us forever."

Director and screenwriter Aphidet Duanyai posted a photo from a football event with entertainment industry friends, offering condolences: "Rest well, brother Nat Mahaethaep. Nearly 10 years of knowing Nat—our lives were deeply intertwined. We talked about almost everything, went places together. Nat stayed at my house, I stayed at his place for months. When Nat had a child, I bought gold as a gift. We did activities together, played football. We could read each other's minds. When he wanted to make an MV, I made it for him. When he wanted to become an actor, I taught him. When he wanted to become a director, I taught him. I gave him every opportunity and supported him in every way. I would gently remind and advise him."

He continued: "But lately, Nat seemed dissatisfied. He stabbed me in the back, attacked me, and spread rumors—both true and false—causing me harm. People came and told me about it. Eventually we grew apart. Nat became associated with negative news. I chose to remain silent, not to counter-attack or get involved at all. We went our separate ways until finally he became ill and passed away. I offer Nat my complete condolences. I'm not angry with Nat anymore. Everyone has both strengths and weaknesses, but I choose to remember Nat's good qualities."

Meanwhile, Nan Charuwan posted sadly: "You've gone so far away now, my love. 4/7/2569 20:27," and shared a heartbreaking clip of Nat Mahaethaep with his son, captioning it: "Saying I love you one last time. Dad loves you, Non."

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National

Seven Monks Mourned In Ubon Ratchathani Funeral Rites

Seven monks were honored with funeral rites at a Ubon Ratchathani temple on July 5, with merit-making ceremonies continuing through July 8 as devotees from multiple provinces gathered to pay respects.

Seven Monks Mourned In Ubon Ratchathani Funeral Rites
8h ago Khaosod

On July 5, 2025, at Wat Ban Nam Khun in Tambon Ta Kao, Amphoe Nam Khun, Ubon Ratchathani Province, devotees and disciples of the seven deceased monks gathered for continuous chanting throughout the day to pay their final respects. They also participated in constructing a temporary cremation platform for the monks' funeral rites.

The atmosphere was filled with compassion as prominent monk Luang Ta Sinthrap Jarandham led nuns in setting up a food distribution station with boxed meals. Luang Phi Aof and online preacher Samanen For joined in distributing over 1,000 som tam and ice cream servings to attendees as a gesture of care for the Buddhist community members who came to pay respects. Merit-making ceremonies will continue through July 7, with a special royal cremation ceremony scheduled for July 8, 2025.

Nang Sorn Ngon Ngen, village headman of Moo 14, Tambon Ta Kao, noted that Buddhists from all directions have continuously arrived to make merit and pay their respects, including groups from Chanthaburi Province who learned of the event en route and stopped by to participate.

The temple and organizing committee have emphasized transparency in donations, with detailed daily records of all receipts and expenditures. They confirmed that the temple has no policy of opening bank accounts for online donations.

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Community

Influencer Sprite Addresses Past Rift With Bryan Tan

Influencer Sprite Bababi has resolved past tensions with Bryan Tan, attributing decreased collaborations to them launching separate YouTube channels in different provinces rather than lingering conflict. She believes Bryan Tan and Madii's r

Influencer Sprite Addresses Past Rift With Bryan Tan
8h ago Khaosod

Influencer Sprite Bababi has clarified her relationship with Bryan Tan, admitting they had hurt feelings in the past but insisting it's water under the bridge. When asked why fans haven't seen them collaborate as much recently, Sprite explained that when they each launched their own YouTube channels while living in different provinces, their collaborations naturally decreased as they focused on growing their individual content. She acknowledged past tension stemmed from a misunderstanding when Bryan Tan didn't initially support her opening her own channel, but she emphasized this happened long ago and they now work together comfortably, react to each other's content, and greet each other at events.

Regarding her take on the drama between Bryan Tan and Madii, Sprite believes it's a genuine issue, not manufactured content, noting that the situation involves complex family dynamics. However, she stressed she's an outsider who doesn't live with them, so her understanding is limited. She expressed support for both parties, saying their underlying problems stem from love rather than malice and confident they'll reconcile like they once were.

When asked if Bryan Tan's recent cliff jump might have affected things, Sprite laughed and said maybe partially, but that multiple factors likely contributed. She pushed back against online speculation that character flaws drove people away, clarifying that her past hurt with Bryan wasn't serious and resulted from simply living in different provinces while building separate careers. Sprite urged fans to focus on supporting those actually involved in the drama rather than speculating, emphasizing that both Bryan Tan and Madii are kind to her when they meet and that there's no reason for tension.

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Tourism

Whale Sharks Spotted Simultaneously At Two Ko Tao Dive Sites

Whale sharks measuring 3-4 meters were spotted simultaneously at two popular Ko Tao dive sites, thrilling divers at Chumphon Pinnacle and Sail Rock. June through September marks peak season for these encounters, with sightings reflecting th

Whale Sharks Spotted Simultaneously At Two Ko Tao Dive Sites
8h ago Khaosod

Divers at Ko Tao in Surat Thani province were thrilled to encounter whale sharks measuring approximately 3-4 meters long at two popular dive sites simultaneously—Chumphon Pinnacle, a world-class deep dive site to the northwest, and Sail Rock, one of the Gulf of Thailand's most beautiful and famous dive locations to the southeast. Divers were able to photograph and film the whale sharks swimming gracefully among schools of fish, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed the encounter.

Ramluk Asvachin, chairman of Ko Tao Tourism Business Association, revealed that June through September each year represents peak season for whale shark sightings at Ko Tao, with consistent reports of encounters at multiple dive sites including Chumphon, Sail Rock, Hin Khao, Khong Tung Ku, Luan Pairinthorn, and other dive areas. Some days see whale sharks at multiple locations, and numerous instances have recorded simultaneous sightings at two dive sites within the same timeframe. Both Thai and foreign divers eagerly anticipate this season due to the frequent daily opportunities to encounter whale sharks.

"Consistent whale shark sightings are an important indicator reflecting the richness of Ko Tao's marine ecosystem, food sources, and biodiversity. This success also results from collaborative conservation and marine resource restoration efforts between government agencies, private sector partners, dive operators, and local communities," Ramluk stated.

She added that Ko Tao continues to be recognized as one of the world's premier diving destinations. Regular whale shark encounters during this season not only captivate tourists but also reflect the quality of marine resources and reinforce Ko Tao's image as a diving destination that grows sustainably alongside conservation efforts.

Dive operators urge all divers to follow responsible whale shark viewing practices: do not touch, do not chase, do not feed, and maintain appropriate distance to avoid disrupting the animals' natural behavior and to preserve Ko Tao's marine abundance for the future.

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National

Trump Blends Politics With Patriotism at 250th Anniversary

President Trump commemorated America's 250th Independence Day anniversary in Washington on Saturday, blending patriotic tributes to veterans with partisan campaigning for Republican priorities ahead of November's midterm elections.

Trump Blends Politics With Patriotism at 250th Anniversary
8h ago Khaosod

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump mixed partisan politics with patriotic appeals on Saturday as he commemorated the 250th anniversary of American independence, a moment he declared "one of the most joyous and glorious milestones of all time."

President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump arrived at the Salute to America, an Independence Day event honoring the nation's 250th anniversary, on Saturday, July 4, 2026, on the National Mall in Washington.

Speaking in Washington after storms prompted roughly a two-hour evacuation of the National Mall, Trump honored veterans, including several from World War II and one of the first Black officers to lead a Special Forces team in combat in Vietnam. They stood before flags symbolizing some of the most significant and challenging moments in American history, from the one draped over Abraham Lincoln's casket to the one that flew on the Wright Brothers' plane.

Yet Trump also ventured into partisan territory unusual for an Independence Day address, which presidents typically use to unify the country. Instead, he campaigned for the SAVE America Act, an elections bill encountering resistance even from fellow Republicans in Congress. He highlighted his support for the Second Amendment and revived denunciations of communism, increasingly central to Trump's messaging ahead of November's midterms.

The speech capped a holiday that Trump shaped to his preferences. He was introduced by performers who regularly appear at his rallies, including Lee Greenwood, who performed "God Bless the USA." Event organizers were largely aligned with the White House, replacing a bipartisan organization launched by Congress a decade earlier.

"We will always be on top," Trump said. "We will never let our country fall. We will always be the best."

Trump spoke less about himself than during his typical rallies, though he included a joke about seeking a third presidential term and references to World War II's "greatest generation."

"They are the greatest generation," Trump said. "I hate to admit that, but they are."

Anticipation for the milestone holiday has built throughout the year, offering Americans a chance to reflect on their complicated history as former colonists who became a superpower. Organizers of months-long celebrations had to adjust or cancel activities as much of the East Coast endured heat approaching and often exceeding triple digits.

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National

Transport Ministry Tightens Airport Security Screening Measures

Thailand's Transport Ministry is intensifying airport security screening following a cabinet drug prevention meeting, deploying additional K9 units and upgrading X-ray procedures after a Thai flight attendant's arrest in Australia exposed s

Transport Ministry Tightens Airport Security Screening Measures
8h ago Khaosod

Deputy Transport Minister Siripong Angsakulgiartti outlined enhanced security measures for airports following a cabinet drug prevention committee meeting chaired by the Prime Minister on July 3rd. Siripong, representing Deputy PM Pipat Ratchakitprakarn who was conducting provincial fieldwork, said the Transport Ministry will implement the committee's recommendations with additional enforcement measures.

He confirmed that before the arrest of a Thai flight attendant in Australia, the airport had already enforced stringent international screening standards, and drug smuggling arrests have been ongoing at the airport with contraband detected on both arriving and departing flights. "Going forward, we will intensify screening procedures significantly because we believe these smuggling networks may have learned our inspection methods and are continuously adapting to evade detection," Siripong said.

Regarding concerns about how crew member smuggling would be controlled, the Deputy Transport Minister explained that airports already screen crew through X-ray scanning, but if violations are discovered, enforcement will be escalated. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand will issue additional regulations to all airlines, including prohibiting crew from carrying items due to risk factors. Additional measures include enhanced training for X-ray machine operators, strengthened intelligence operations, and deployment of over 60 additional K9 units from the Thai National Police to supplement existing customs K9 units. The ministry will issue further policy directives to airlines.

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Tourism

Taiwan Airport Seizes Hundreds of Portable Fans From Travelers

Taoyuan International Airport security confiscated hundreds of portable fans from travelers, prompting a warning about strict baggage rules for battery-powered devices during peak travel season.

Taiwan Airport Seizes Hundreds of Portable Fans From Travelers
8h ago Khaosod

A woman has warned travelers after witnessing security staff confiscate numerous portable fans at Taiwan's Taoyuan International Airport during the peak travel season. She shared photos of a confiscation bin overflowing with various handheld fans, likening it to a "mountain of fans," and urged travelers to carefully check baggage regulations before flying to avoid losing items at security checkpoints.

The woman posted on Threads on July 3, expressing surprise at how many passengers were unable to bring portable fans through security and had to abandon them in the confiscation bin. She urged international travelers to carefully review what they pack to avoid abandoning items at checkpoints.

According to Taoyuan International Airport's website, portable fans using lithium-ion or LiFePO4 batteries may only be carried in carry-on luggage and are prohibited in checked baggage. Fans using lead-acid batteries that do not meet IATA's A67 specifications are not permitted on aircraft in any form.

Power banks are also prohibited in checked baggage and must be carried on board. Batteries with capacity not exceeding 100 watt-hours can be brought aboard normally, while those between 100-160 Wh require airline approval. Batteries exceeding 160 Wh are not permitted on aircraft, and power banks cannot be used or charged during flight.

The airport also reminds passengers that they may carry one regular lighter in carry-on luggage only. Windproof lighters and blue flame lighters are completely prohibited. For liquids, gels, and sprays, containers must not exceed 100 milliliters each and must be placed together in a clear ziplock bag with total capacity not exceeding one liter. Sharp objects like knives and scissors are only permitted in checked baggage, with the exception of scissors with blades not exceeding 6 centimeters in length.

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Police

Major Drug Bust at Mae Sai Border Crossing

Authorities at the Mae Sai border crossing seized 100 kilograms of ketamine and 600,000 methamphetamine pills from a Myanmar driver attempting to smuggle the drugs into Thailand in a tuk-tuk.

Major Drug Bust at Mae Sai Border Crossing
8h ago Khaosod

On July 5, 2025, officials from the Mae Sai customs checkpoint in Chiang Rai province, working with the regional customs suppression unit, immigration police, military forces, and local police, intercepted a Myanmar-registered tuk-tuk at the Mae Sai border gate. The vehicle, driven by 42-year-old Myanmar national Tun Teng U, claimed to be carrying empty plastic baskets into Thailand. Upon inspection, authorities discovered concealed cargo containing approximately 100 kilograms of ketamine and roughly 600,000 methamphetamine pills. The driver and all evidence were transported to the second Mae Sai customs checkpoint for detailed examination. Officials charged the suspect with smuggling goods into the kingdom without customs clearance and trafficking Category 1 and Category 2 controlled substances. The case has been forwarded to Mae Sai police for prosecution, with investigators working to identify and apprehend additional suspects and criminal networks involved in the cross-border drug trafficking operation.

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National

Thai Volleyball Captain Eyes Two Wins in VNL 2026 Final Week

Thailand's women's volleyball team captain Chompoo Pornpranom aims for at least two wins in the final week of VNL 2026 in Osaka, facing world-class opponents including the USA, Japan, Brazil, and Turkey from July 8-12.

Thai Volleyball Captain Eyes Two Wins in VNL 2026 Final Week
8h ago Khaosod

Thailand's women's volleyball team captain Chompoo Pornpranom expressed hope that the squad will win at least two matches during the final week of the 2026 Women's Nations League (VNL 2026) in Osaka, Japan, from July 8-12. Coach Kiarti Ratchatakienkaew led the team's departure on July 5, 2026, via Thai Airways flight TG672 at 8:25 a.m. Before leaving, Chompoo stated that after completing the second week with ample rest and good physical preparation, the team had fully recovered over the past 10 days and returned to intensive training, with all players ready for the third week of competition. "The final week's schedule is quite demanding. We don't know how well we'll perform against the top teams until we play, but we believe our preparation has been intense. Facing strong opponents will be challenging, but we're confident we'll compete fiercely," Chompoo said. "We'll face Japan, America, Turkey, and Brazil—I'm sure they're coming at full strength. But we believe we can compete. These will be tough matches, but good ones for us. Thailand's goal is to secure at least two victories, even though all four opponents are among the world's top teams," she added. Thailand's match schedule includes: Wednesday, July 8 vs. USA at 1:30 p.m.; Thursday, July 9 vs. Japan at 5:20 p.m.; Saturday, July 11 vs. Brazil at 1:30 p.m.; and Sunday, July 12 vs. Turkey at 1:30 p.m.

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Community

Influencer and Rescuer Clash Over Funeral Procession Drama

Influencer Song Duhee and rescue volunteer Pond Chakrakrisna clashed publicly over their roles in a funeral procession following a monk's death in a crash involving an 11-year-old driver, sparking heated social media exchanges before Song e

Influencer and Rescuer Clash Over Funeral Procession Drama
8h ago Khaosod

A major social media drama unfolded between influencer Song Duhee and well-known rescue volunteer Pond Chakrakrisna over their roles in transporting the body of a monk who died in a crash caused by an 11-year-old driver. Song Duhee publicly questioned why Pond's team disappeared from the funeral convoy of seven vehicles and then formed a separate procession, demanding clarification.

Pond responded that his team did not abandon their duties but was forced to stop by an urgent command from event organizers while following the convoy, causing them to fall behind. Both parties engaged in a series of heated social media exchanges.

Eventually, Song Duhee deleted all his controversial posts and evidence. Pond reacted sharply, saying: "Pick one wound and close it one by one. The main reason I haven't responded is because it's not visible. Post and delete, post and delete—so I don't know which one to answer."

Song Duhee then posted to end the drama, saying: "Brother Pond, I apologize," but Pond responded that meaningful apologies must be directed at those truly affected. He emphasized that careless words and presentations can mislead people and add unnecessary stress to grieving families.

Pond stated: "Reputation can be recovered, but the feelings of those who have lost someone cannot be reversed in time. If there is genuine remorse, responsibility should start with a sincere apology to those directly affected, not vague statements meant to silence the issue. This lesson is not just about apologizing—it's about recognizing that every word we share impacts people's lives and hearts."

Song Duhee later posted an apology video taking full responsibility and apologizing to all involved parties and the public.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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