Lanta & News
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National

GC Reports Net Profit of 3.232 Billion Baht, Advancing Business Portfolio Balance to Navigate Global Volatility

GC reported first-quarter net profit of 3.232 billion baht while advancing its portfolio toward high-value, low-carbon businesses including bioplastics, with a new manufacturing facility opening in Nakhon Sawan.

4d ago Khaosod

GC announced first quarter 2025 operational results with net profit of 3.232 billion baht and total sales revenue of 146.936 billion baht, reflecting continuous production operations managed efficiently through effective raw material and supply chain management despite global economic volatility, energy price fluctuations, and geopolitical tensions. The company's integrated value chain structure provides flexibility in raw material management, production, and supply chain operations while supporting Thailand's industrial sector. GC is advancing its strategic plan to increase raw material flexibility, enhance overall operational efficiency, and transition its portfolio toward high-value, low-carbon businesses, particularly specialty chemicals through allnex and green-bio circular economy initiatives. The allnex subsidiary continues to serve as a key mechanism for stabilizing the company's business portfolio, with its globally diversified production facilities, assets, and supplier networks providing competitive advantages amid geopolitical conflicts. Growth projects in key regions including the United States, Europe, and Asia-Pacific are proceeding on schedule. The company is actively developing low-carbon businesses including bioplastics, recycled plastics, and sustainability solutions to reduce dependence on fossil fuel resources. A significant milestone is the opening of NatureWorks' PLA (polylactic acid) bioplastic manufacturing plant in Nakhon Sawan Bio Complex with 75,000 tons annual capacity, utilizing sugarcane as raw material, positioning Thailand as an Asian bioplastic manufacturing hub. CEO Narongsakdi Jiwaganan stated that amid energy crises and fossil fuel volatility, alternative materials are gaining increasing attention not only for environmental reasons but also for long-term supply chain risk reduction. The company's advancement in bioplastics, recycled plastics, and other sustainability solutions demonstrates significant opportunities for growth, differentiation, and support for the transition to low-carbon businesses.

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Breaking

Khon Kaen Municipality Hunts Down Fish Dumpling Vendor Over Tissue Paper Discovery

Khon Kaen Municipality is hunting an unregistered street vendor after a customer found tissue paper inside fish dumplings purchased at a lakeside market. The unauthorized cart operator faces potential fines up to 10,000 baht if food safety

4d ago Khaosod

Khon Kaen Municipality is actively searching for an unregistered street vendor believed to be selling fish dumplings and sausages without proper registration. Initial investigation suggests the vendor may have sneaked into Gaen Nakhon Lakeside Market, which falls within the municipality's jurisdiction.

The incident began when a consumer purchased fish dumplings from the lakeside market and discovered tissue paper inside the food upon returning home. The consumer posted about the incident on social media, sparking widespread criticism.

On May 15, 2569 (2026), Deputy Mayor Nuchreevan Dordilert announced that the municipality had launched an immediate investigation. The market committee determined that the vendor in question was an unauthorized motorcycle cart operator, not a registered market merchant.

"Vendors at Gaen Nakhon Lakeside Market fall into two main categories: those properly registered with the municipality and walk-in vendors operating under our system," the deputy mayor explained. "However, this case involves a cart that doesn't belong to either group. We're currently identifying the vendor. Regarding the tissue paper found in the dumplings, we need to verify whether it's actually tissue paper, though video evidence appears to show something tissue-like. Today, we're conducting a joint investigation with the Khon Kaen Provincial Public Health Office."

The municipality conducts regular inspections of over 1,000 food establishments across the city, including fresh markets, community markets, and restaurants, covering roughly 35 areas. Each facility is inspected at least once annually, and complaints trigger immediate investigations.

According to the deputy mayor, this is an unprecedented incident. Licensed vendors must comply with established standards and regulations. While the municipality has vendor databases and monitoring systems, unauthorized carts sometimes slip in during nighttime hours or when staff presence is limited.

Initial investigation suggests the vendor may originate from the Wat That area, where various merchants operate despite municipal restrictions on designated areas. The municipality will coordinate with municipal police, market committees, and community representatives to track down the offending vendor.

If violations are confirmed, penalties could include approximately 2,000 baht for selling outside designated areas under the City Cleanliness and Order Act, or up to 10,000 baht under the Food Act if the food was deemed unsafe or illegal. Formal evidence collection and investigation results are pending.

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Community

Browsing the Dharma Shelf – The May 2569 Edition of Art and Culture Magazine: The Forest Tradition of Venerable Mun Bhuridatto and the Path of Faith Among Bangkok's Elite

The May 2569 edition of Art and Culture Magazine explores how forest monks from northeastern Thailand, particularly followers of Venerable Mun Bhuridatto, gained prominence among Bangkok's elite despite holding marginal status during the ea

4d ago Khaosod

Art and Culture Magazine, May 2569 Edition: The Forest Tradition of Venerable Mun Bhuridatto and Bangkok's Elite Devotees Editor: Art and Culture Editorial Board Published by: Art and Culture, Matichon Publishing House Price: 150 baht

In contemporary Thai society, "forest monks" are not merely ascetics retreating into deep forests, but symbols of spiritual purity. Many forest monks have been revered as "arahants" transcending worldly concerns. Images of forest monks venerated by the royal court, elite classes, and people nationwide—particularly in Bangkok—have become so familiar they seem timeless, as if dating back to the Buddha's era. Yet examining history reveals this phenomenon actually emerged in the early reign of King Rama IX. During his reign, forest monks held no elevated status in Bangkok's centers of power. Devotion to forest monks remained confined to local levels, far removed from becoming focal points for Bangkok's elite. The crucial question emerges: how did forest monks from the Northeast transcend their marginal status?

The Art and Culture magazine presents the article "Path of Faith from the Northeast to Bangkok: The Relationship Between Venerable Mun Bhuridatto's Forest Monk Lineage and Bangkok's Elite (1960s-2010s)," researched by Saplot Angkhapichimedha. This article explores the pivotal historical intersection between the forest monk lineage and Bangkok's upper classes.

The May 2569 edition of Art and Culture also features numerous historical articles from various perspectives, including: "Khong-Chi-Mun Before Bangkok: Networks of Champa Relations" by Rungroach Phiromyanukhul; "Heavenly Beings" by Sansnee Veerasilchai; "Rama's Forest Walk in Rama IV's Reign and the Stories He Edited" by Stananth Krutphichet; "Wat Tha-Wat Karong: The Fatal Bullet Point of 'Mr. Reuk'" by Achirwijchay Anthapun; and "Animal Symbols in Ancient Board Games: Entertainment or Ritual" by Phanu Traiveach.

All these articles can be found exclusively in the May 2569 edition of Art and Culture Magazine.

**Guru Critique of Gurus: Inspiring Reflection** **Zen's Natural Path: Sudden Clarity**

The magazine also recommends "Guru Critique of Gurus" by Osho, published by Freemind Publishing at 285 baht. This book revives influential sages and philosophers—from the Buddha to Jesus, Krishna, poets like Laozi and Rumi, philosophers like Nietzsche and Pythagoras, to modern thinkers like Kahlil Gibran and Gurdjieff. The author presents these figures' wisdom in accessible, thought-provoking ways that inspire reflection.

Also featured: "Zen's Natural Path" by Niroat Jitwisut, exploring Zen Buddhism's enlightenment as direct insight into the true nature of reality.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Community

Release of New Amulet Medal – Image of Luang Por Jul

A commemorative amulet medal honoring the late Luang Por Jul, a respected Buddhist monk and educator in Kamphaeng Phet province, has been released, with the original 1956 copper and gold-plated medal now rare and highly valued by devotees f

4d ago Khaosod

Phra Wichit Saraso (Luang Por Jul Issaranyano), former abbot of Wat Hong Thong in Salkbat subdistrict, Khanuthoralugsaburi district, Kamphaeng Phet province, was a highly respected Buddhist monk who founded Wichit Saraso School and long supported Salkbat School. Born as Jul Putthachat on April 12, 1894, he was the eldest son of his family and ordained at age 23 on May 9, 1917. Throughout his life, he was dedicated to Buddhism and made numerous contributions to the sangha, relatives, and lay followers through his teaching and virtuous conduct.

He received ecclesiastical rank in 1959 and passed away on October 19, 1969 at age 74, having spent 51 Buddhist lent seasons in monastic life. His devotees created several commemorative amulets, with the most popular being the first edition medal from 1956, which Kamphaeng Phet devotees created as a tribute gift. The medal features a square shape with a loop, cast in copper with gold plating. The front displays a seated meditation image with text reading "In commemoration of the gift offering ceremony for Phra Kru Vikrom Wichit Saraso on March 30, 1956." The back features only the center with Buddhist script. This highly sought-after medal is known for its protective qualities and has become increasingly rare, with most pieces now in private collections.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Malaysian man devastated after renting luxury condo for 80,000 baht monthly with fiancée, only to discover she was cheating with his best friend

A Malaysian man is struggling to pay 80,000 baht monthly for a luxury Singapore condo after his fiancée cheated with his best friend and left him shouldering the full rental cost alone.

4d ago Khaosod

A 32-year-old Malaysian man has sparked online discussion after posting on Reddit about being left to shoulder the full rental cost of a luxury Singapore condo following his fiancée's infidelity. The man previously lived with his fiancée in a master bedroom unit in the Tampines area before their lease expired. When it came time to renew, his fiancée convinced him to upgrade to a luxury condo near Pasir Ris Mall shopping center. Although he preferred a cheaper two-bedroom flat, he eventually agreed to rent the luxury unit for 3,100 Singapore dollars (roughly 80,000 baht) monthly, acknowledging it was "way over budget."

After living there for approximately six months, he made a crushing discovery: his fiancée had been secretly seeing his best friend for nearly two years and had even brought him to the condo. Following their split, they agreed she would pay 550 Singapore dollars (about 14,000 baht) monthly toward the rent. However, after just a few months, she stopped contributing when she entered a new relationship and removed herself from the lease. To make matters worse, she announced her engagement to someone else during the same week they had originally planned to get married.

Now the man must bear the entire rental burden alone, despite earning only 5,000 Singapore dollars (approximately 130,000 baht) monthly, creating severe financial strain. He has attempted to find a subtenant and negotiate early lease termination but has been unsuccessful due to the high rental cost. He also consulted online communities about Singapore's tenancy laws in search of a solution. Many netizens offered advice, with some suggesting he lower the rent temporarily to attract tenants, while others recommended carefully reviewing the lease agreement's cancellation terms.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
Community

Ariya Loke the Sixth – Commemorating 43 Years Since the Passing of Luang Pu Khao Analayo

Devotees marked the 43rd anniversary of Luang Pu Khao Analayo's death on May 16, honoring the renowned forest meditation master from Nong Bua Lamphu Province who spent decades practicing Buddhist teachings across Thailand and inspired anima

4d ago Khaosod

On Saturday, May 16, 2569, devotees commemorated the 43rd anniversary of Luang Pu Khao Analayo's passing, a celebrated forest meditation master from Wat Tham Klong Phaen in Mueang District, Nong Bua Lamphu Province. Originally named Khao Korathai, he was born on December 28, 1888, in Ban Bo Chaneang, Amnat Charoen Province, to a family of farmers and merchants. At age 20, his parents arranged his marriage, and he fathered three children before the couple eventually separated. Characterized by unwavering determination and deep faith in Buddhist teachings, he underwent ordination at age 31 in 1919 at Wat Phi Sri, with Phra Khru Phutisak as his preceptor and Phra Ajahn Bunchan as his ordination witness.

After spending six Buddhist Lents at Wat Phi Sri, inspired by his faith in the teachings of Luang Pu Man Bhuridatto, he requested to become a dhamma disciple in 1925 at age 37 at Wat Phothisombhorn in Udon Thani Province, with Phra Thammajedee (Choom Panthulo) as his preceptor. He spent eight years practicing in Udon Thani before traveling with Luang Pu Man to practice the Dhamma in various locations across nearly every region of Thailand. He also spent many years practicing with other renowned forest masters including Luang Pu Fen Ajaho, Luang Pu Waen Sucitto, Luang Pu Tae Achalodhamma, and Luang Pu Chop Thanasmo.

Having spent decades developing spiritual merit in the forest, he accumulated remarkable experiences with wildlife. Animals appeared to respond to his contemplation—when he thought of an elephant that had not visited in some time, the elephant would arrive that very night and walk directly to his dwelling. Similar phenomena occurred with tigers, which would prowl near his monastery in response to his mindful recollection.

He maintained exceptionally strict discipline, particularly regarding walking meditation. After morning chanting, he would walk in meditation as an offering to the Buddha until afternoon, then from 2 PM to 4 PM as an offering to the Dhamma, and finally from the completion of evening duties until 4-5 PM as an offering to the Sangha before retiring to continue meditation.

He devoted himself to disseminating the Dhamma through travels to many locations until age 70, when he took permanent residence at Wat Pa Tham Klong Phaen. In his final years, he suffered from illness for nine years, including blindness from cataracts and hearing loss from calcium deposits on bone, yet his mental well-being remained sound, and he maintained a cheerful and humorous temperament. He was able to predict the time of his own death.

His teachings emphasized: "Why are living beings not all the same? Their differences arise from their actions and conduct. Those who practice virtue, observe the precepts, give alms, and listen to teachings develop wisdom and good education. Wherever they go, only good arises. When the mind is empty and at peace, because the mind is unified and undisturbed by emotions, it becomes clear and pure. The cooled mind knows only ease and understands the nature of conditioned things and reality. Such a mind does not waver before anything—whether death approaches or suffering and pain arrive, there is no wavering."

He passed away peacefully on May 16, 1983, at the age of 95, having completed 64 Buddhist Lents. On Saturday, February 11, 1984, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej presided over the royal cremation ceremony.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Lee Thanatpong Opens Up: From ASMR Viewer to Full-Fledged Influencer! Hints at Potential Couple Content Coming

Young Thai actor Lee Thanatpong has transitioned from casual ASMR viewer to content creator, discussing his growing TikTok presence and upcoming film and music projects at an influencer platform launch in Bangkok.

4d ago Khaosod

Young actor Lee Thanatpong, who continues to deliver content for his fanbase, recently attended the launch of "Lemon Lens," an influencer monitoring and brand performance platform designed to support modern marketers at The Athenee Hotel Bangkok. He opened up about stepping into the influencer world, creating more content for followers, and his choice to decline BL series roles.

Is the new influencer launching with strong engagement? "I just started. I've been using TikTok for a long time, but mainly for relaxation—listening to ASMR, watching pimple-popping videos. Those are so soothing for sleep (laughs). I watched constantly but never thought I'd upload anything myself. Lately, I wanted to try it out. At first, I told everyone this was a real account, but nobody believed me. Eventually, I did a live stream and the engagement just started picking up. I'm mainly focusing on live content now, but not too frequently. I want to create some distance so they miss me before I come back—but they don't seem to miss me (laughs). If it's working, then thanks!"

What else are you working on these days? "I have events constantly, mostly outside Bangkok. I'm glad to go, but it's a shame the media doesn't always come along. We'll be riding together next time. I also have series in the works—waiting to roll cameras and waiting for them to air."

Are you having a busy year? "Every year is busy. I try to do series every year. Many people message saying they miss me, but I'm constantly working. When I'm on set, I don't usually upload updates about filming. With my latest project, we wrapped months ago, but I haven't posted any behind-the-scenes photos because the script was so intense and exhausting. But I promised everyone I'd share more."

How many series will we see this year? "Throughout the year, I kept saying they'd air this year, but recently I found out they're airing next year (laughs). And with the new project that just started filming, I'm already saying that one's also coming next year."

What are the roles like? "As I've gotten older, the roles I receive lean more toward professional characters. For example, in '669 Emergency Line Becomes Love,' I played a rescue worker. When we made the deal, they didn't mention I'd be doing rope work or falling in water—that was quite the challenge. The upcoming project starting in October has me playing a teacher with a complete image change—different speech, walk, hairstyle. Based on the script I've seen, it seems doable. Feel free to reach out. I want to keep playing challenging roles."

Many actors these days have solo singles. Will you be doing one? "I actually mentioned before that I'm working on music. I've made so many tracks that I feel ready to record anytime. I'm more naturally inclined toward the music production side, but for vocals, I need someone to write the right lyrics. Recently, my friend has written several songs for me, and he keeps messaging asking when I'll record (laughs). Will it be T-Pop dance style? No, I need to be true to myself. I'm not naturally comfortable with dancing—I'm not great with my body that way. Music is more my strength."

Have BL boy-love roles been coming your way? "Yes, constantly. But I don't really feel suited for them. I don't think I can pull them off well. I'd rather younger actors or those naturally suited to that genre get those roles. My vibe has always been more versatile. If you put me in a BL series, I probably wouldn't do as well as my peers."

What kind of scripts are being sent to you? "I don't usually read scripts all the way through. Just brief treatments. If I'm not comfortable, I'm worried I'll do a bad job and ruin my career as an actor. After 10 years in the industry, I don't want people saying I played poorly (laughs). I do read them first and give clear reasons when I decline. Sometimes I feel I'm more mature for certain ages. There are many reasons—it's not just about whether it suits me."

It shows that lately...

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
Community

Fresh from the Temple – First-Level Buddhist Studies Course Launched to Build Moral Character

Thailand's Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment launched a Buddhist studies program on May 7 to strengthen moral character among staff, with monks and laypeople studying Buddha's teachings across three certification levels.

4d ago Khaosod

On Thursday, May 7, 2025, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment organized a 'First-Level Buddhist Studies' training program to cultivate moral character within the agency. Phra Phrom Wachirat (Sophon Sophoncitto), abbot of Wat Devoraj Kunchorn and Regional Sangha Chief, led the opening ceremony and offered Buddhist guidance to executives, civil servants, and staff participants at the Trideach Sacred Conference Room on the second floor of the Pollution Control Department building.

Secretary-General Ravewan Phuridech opened the program with a report. Phra Phrom Wachirat expressed great appreciation for all ministry personnel who enrolled in the Buddhist Studies program at various levels—from first-level to advanced—following Wat Devoraj Kunchorn's official establishment as a Buddhist studies institution on May 30, 2024, offering instruction in both Buddhist doctrine and Pali language studies.

The Buddhist doctrine studies curriculum involves learning the Buddha's teachings according to Buddhist principles found in the Tipitaka, designed for monks, novices, students, and the general public to develop understanding and apply these teachings to mental development, practice their faith, and foster peaceful coexistence in society based on the threefold training of morality, concentration, and wisdom.

Phra Phrom Wachirat explained that Buddhist studies are divided into three levels: first-degree, second-degree, and advanced degree scholars. The monastic community has also authorized laypeople to take these examinations. He emphasized that proper goal-setting in life is crucial for societal flourishing, noting that both monks and laypeople with solid education, ethical foundation, and wisdom can support social progress and personal success.

He further elaborated that proper life direction is the first step toward happiness and advancement, as pursuing knowledge without a righteous foundation leads nowhere. True progress requires setting correct life goals based on right livelihood before seeking knowledge and capabilities, then pursuing those goals with diligence, preparation, and perseverance.

In the 2025 academic year, Wat Devoraj Kunchorn's institute, in cooperation with the office of the Ministry's Secretary-General, launched this practical training course.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

10 Health Behaviors Many People Think Are Good for You, But Are Actually Silent Killers Damaging Your Body

Many common health practices—like drinking excessive fruit juice, fasting drastically, or over-exercising after meals—can actually harm your body rather than help it, according to a list of 10 widespread health misconceptions.

4d ago Khaosod

A checklist of 10 behaviors that many people believe are "healthy" but are actually silent threats undermining your body—the more you do them, the greater your health risk.

Compiled by the Thai News Online team May 15, 2026

Reporting from international media sources. In an era where health information spreads rapidly on social media, countless self-care tips may create misunderstandings, leading to excessive or incorrect practices.

Here are the 10 most common health misconceptions:

1. Drinking fruit juice or eating too much fruit Many believe fruit can be consumed without limit, but in reality, fruits contain high amounts of fructose. When the body receives too much, the liver must work hard to metabolize the sugar, which may increase the risk of fatty liver disease and high uric acid levels. Particularly with fruit juice that has had fiber removed, blood sugar spikes rapidly and increases metabolic burden on the body.

2. Walking or exercising immediately after eating helps digestion The belief that moving your body after a meal aids digestion may actually harm your stomach. After eating, your body needs to send blood to the digestive system, but exercising diverts that blood to muscle instead, resulting in incomplete digestion and increasing the risk of cramping, gastritis, or acid reflux.

3. The less you eat or fast, the faster you lose weight Severe fasting puts your body in "survival mode," reducing metabolic rate to conserve energy. This causes your body to burn muscle and water before fat, leading to fatigue, hair loss, and when you return to normal eating, rapid weight gain occurs because your metabolism has slowed.

4. Drinking as much water as possible is always good for health Drinking excess water, such as 4–7 liters at once in a short timeframe, may cause water intoxication or hyponatremia. When mineral salts become too diluted, your kidneys work hard to expel excess water instead of flushing toxins, causing fatigue, dizziness, and disrupting organ function.

5. Misconception that being thin equals good health Low body weight doesn't always mean a strong body, because BMI cannot reflect the proportion of fat and muscle mass. Many people with slim figures actually have dangerous levels of fat stored around internal organs, known as "hidden obesity," which still carries the same risk of diabetes and heart disease.

6. Eating very little salt or eliminating salt entirely Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. While excessive salt consumption is harmful, insufficient intake is equally dangerous. Adults should consume at least around 5 grams of salt daily, or about one teaspoon. Eliminating salt entirely may cause hyponatremia, nausea, headaches, and nervous system damage.

7. Exercising intensely in the evening or only on weekends to compensate for sitting all day Sitting for long periods and then exercising intensely to compensate cannot erase accumulated damage. The body, especially the heart and joints, is sensitive to sudden changes. Intense weekend-only exercise may increase risk of heart overwork, muscle strain, tendon injury, and joint damage, while consistent light daily movement provides better health benefits.

8. Using vegetable oil without limit because you think it's healthy [content incomplete in source]

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Tee-Idea Claim Podium at Home Race, Yamaha Thailand Racing Team Ready for Asia Championship Round 3 in Japan

Yamaha Thailand Racing Team delivered strong performances at Chang International Circuit, with Idea-Kritpat winning the Asia Production 250cc Race 2 and Tee-Anupap securing podiums in SuperSport 600cc to close the gap to the championship le

4d ago Khaosod

The 2026 Asia Road Racing Championship Round 2 concluded with outstanding performances by Yamaha Thailand Racing Team at Chang International Circuit in Buriram province, cheered on by enthusiastic Thai motorsports fans. In the SuperSport 600cc class, experienced Thai rider Tee-Anupap Samul, piloting YAMAHA YZF-R6 number 500, secured podium finishes in both races, finishing third in Race 1 and second in Race 2, accumulating 60 points and closing the gap to the championship leader to just 12 points.

In the Asia Production 250cc class, rising star Idea-Kritpat Khemkham from Yamaha Thailand Racing Team and wildcard rider Gus-Theernaai Thuptim showcased excellent teamwork on the YAMAHA YZF-R3. Idea-Kritpat faced challenges in Race 1 after a 200 rpm engine reduction penalty, finishing fifth, but returned stronger in the decisive Race 2, leading from start to finish to secure a home victory with a combined time of 18 minutes 41.804 seconds. Gus-Theernaai, starting from grid 12, demonstrated impressive progress, finishing sixth in Race 1 and fifth in Race 2.

After two rounds, Idea-Kritpat leads the Asia Production 250cc standings with 86 points from three race victories, holding a 22-point advantage over second place. Yamaha Thailand Racing Team maintains first place in the team championship with 112 accumulated points. The championship will continue on June 12-14 at Mobility Resort Motegi in Japan, where Thai fans can support the three Yamaha Thailand Racing Team riders in their pursuit of Thailand's eighth Asian championship.

Veeraphong Thanakitjanon, General Manager of Motorsports at Thai Yamaha Motor, praised the team's overall performance: "The Buriram round was very satisfactory. Our riders collaborated excellently with the team across both categories. Idea won Race 2 while Tee secured podiums in both races, which is better than last season. Data from Race 1 enabled us to improve bike setup and strategy for Race 2 across all three riders. We're already preparing our plan for the Japan round. In the AP250 class, we face a challenge as Idea's large point lead of over 50 points will result in an additional 200 rpm engine reduction next round, which the team must prepare for carefully."

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Forestry Department discovers illegal encroachment in protected forest, orders demolition within 7 days

Authorities discovered 15 rai of illegal structures in Phuket's protected Naka Mountain Range forest and ordered demolition within seven days, with plans to convert the area into a recreational zone.

4d ago Khaosod

The Forestry Department has responded to the policy directive by inspecting 15 rai of land at Had Nui in Phuket and discovered illegal capital encroachment in the Naka Mountain Range protected forest. The department has ordered demolition within 7 days and plans to develop the area into a recreational forest zone.

On May 15, 2026, Nikorn Sirarojnanont, Director-General of the Forestry Department, disclosed the progress of the active inspection operation at Had Nui. After Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchad Choomklin received urgent orders from Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to address grievances and restore justice to the public, he tasked the Forestry Department with urgently resolving the issue.

The Director-General assigned Deputy Director-General Patthanapong Smittiphattana, along with Kosit Nilrattan, Director of the Forest Protection and Fire Control Office, forest resource management officials from the Krabi Regional Office, and coordinating officials from Phuket Province's administrative division, police station, and internal security agency to conduct inspections in the Naka Mountain Range National Forest Reserve area, Subdistrict Karon, Phuket City District, Phuket Province. They discovered ongoing unauthorized land use. Physical inspection revealed construction of additional structures and landscape improvements to attract tourists, including clearing that expanded the open area. The encroachment covers 15 rai 49 square wah within the protected forest area. Evidence was submitted to Karon Police Station on May 14, 2026, for criminal investigation.

Deputy Director-General Patthanapong Smittiphattana stated that the Forestry Department will enforce Section 25 of the National Forest Reserve Act within one week to post notices and demolish all structures without waiting for criminal proceedings to conclude. Any misuse of forestry department areas will be recovered and returned to departmental responsibility. The department will also consider designating the Had Nui target area as a "recreational forest zone" to encourage community participation in protecting the nation's forest resources.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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