Lanta & News
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National

JMT Opens Debt Settlement Centers, Elevates Role as Financial Recovery Partner with 9 Billion Baht Collection Target

JMT Network Services launched a nationwide debt settlement service with 41 centers, positioning itself as a 'Financial Recovery Partner' rather than a traditional debt collector. The company aims to collect 9 billion baht in 2025 while helping over one million customers rebuild their financial stability through comprehensive counseling and personalized solutions. The expansion includes digital services through the Jaii-Dee app and a dedicated call center to improve accessibility and customer support.

8 May Khaosod

JMT Network Services Public Company (JMT) outlined its 2025 strategic direction on May 8, with CEO Sutthirak Traichiraparorn announcing the company's evolution from managing non-performing debt to becoming a comprehensive 'Financial Recovery Partner.' Over its 32-year history, JMT has prioritized helping customers negotiate debt and develop personalized financial plans, successfully returning over one million accounts to the financial system.

Recognizing that Thailand's economic vulnerability and debt problems require more than traditional debt collection, JMT launched the JMT by Jai debt settlement centers as comprehensive financial recovery hubs. These centers provide individual debt analysis, restructuring negotiations, customized payment terms, and long-term financial counseling to build customer confidence in seeking solutions.

The company has expanded to 41 settlement centers nationwide to improve service accessibility and customer confidence. JMT also advanced its digital platform through the Jaii-Dee app, enabling customers to check balances, make online payments, and conduct transactions 24/7, with over 200,000 active users. A dedicated Call Center at 1527 provides direct consultation and coordination.

As of end-2024, JMT Group and JK AMC managed approximately 574,000 million baht in non-performing debt, targeting 9 billion baht in cash collection for 2025 compared to 8,407 million baht in 2024. CEO Sutthirak concluded that addressing debt means helping people rebuild their financial lives, ultimately strengthening Thailand's economy and ensuring JMT's sustainable growth alongside national recovery.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
National

Mazda Customers Celebrate Special Parts Discounts Up to 15% at Service Centers Nationwide

Mazda is offering up to 15% discounts on spare parts and repair services nationwide starting March 31, 2025, with 0% installment payment options available for qualifying customers.

8 May Khaosod

Mazda is helping ease the financial load for customers with special discounts on spare parts—15% off general repairs and 10% off periodic maintenance checks. Starting March 31, 2025, Nai Saravut Bunyonkul, Chief Operating Officer of Mazda Sales (Thailand) Limited, announced that Mazda is committed to becoming a leading brand delivering the best customer experience at all levels through the Mazda Signature Experience program. The company has already standardized labor and maintenance costs nationwide and now recognizes significant economic uncertainty affecting customers' expenses. To support customers bringing their vehicles in for service, Mazda is offering special spare parts discounts: 15% off general repair parts (excluding accident repairs) and 10% off periodic check parts (excluding engine oil, other fluids, tires, and batteries). This campaign is a special privilege for Mazda Family customers holding Mazda Premium Insurance (MPI) policies, enabling them to receive expert technical maintenance at Mazda-certified service centers using genuine parts with 100% assurance of quality and safety. Additionally, customers undergoing general repairs at Mazda service centers nationwide can choose to pay in 0% installments for up to 10 months until September 30, 2026. "Mazda remains committed to elevating the comprehensive customer experience so that Mazda vehicles deliver happiness behind the wheel and throughout the customer's lifestyle," said Nai Saravut. Mazda Premium Insurance is a service product under the Mazda Family Care umbrella, providing peace of mind throughout vehicle ownership with comprehensive coverage from standard Mazda repair and painting centers staffed with expert technicians using certified equipment and guaranteed 100% genuine parts.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Celebrities Refuse to Work with Controversial TV Host Following Scandal

Multiple celebrities are refusing to work with a controversial TV host after allegations emerged that he coerced a student during an internship, a case now filed with Huay Khwang police.

8 May Khaosod

Celebrities working with a controversial TV host are reportedly unwilling to collaborate with him following a major scandal. Many prominent figures including Moddham Kachapa, Boy Entertainment, and Tao TV Pool have publicly denied being the person accused of coercing a student, with some claiming it's a friend involved instead. According to the "Neighbor Aunt" social media page, the host works at a major television station but may only be moderately famous, though industry insiders know him well. The page revealed that the student initially complied out of fear of failing his internship, but eventually reported the incident to his parents, leading to a case filing at Huai Khwang police station. The page also noted that television station employees appear uncomfortable about the situation but are unable to speak openly. Most recently, the "Madam Mount" page, which initially broke the story, posted that several celebrities who have worked with this host are expressing concern and refusing to work with him again, questioning why he hasn't faced consequences despite industry knowledge of his behavior.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

BamBam and TEN Team Up to Create a Sensation at K-Pop Masterz 2026 with a Night Filled with Joy

Thai K-pop stars BamBam and TEN performed together for the first time at K-Pop Masterz 2026 in Bangkok on April 26th, delivering electrifying performances that captivated fans. The special concert featured both artists performing their hit songs, engaging in entertaining fan interactions, and sharing a touching birthday surprise moment. The event celebrated the global success of Thai artists in the international K-pop scene.

8 May Khaosod

BamBam and TEN created a landmark moment at K-Pop Masterz 2026 BamBam & TEN SPECIAL LIVE in BANGKOK when the two internationally acclaimed Thai artists took the stage together on Sunday, April 26th at Sirikit Convention Center, Halls 1-2.

TEN opened the show to thunderous screams from the "Lovely" fan club. He kicked off with "Enough For Me" and "BAMBOLA," greeting fans warmly and charmingly before performing "Dangerous." During the break, TEN engaged in banter with DJ Nooy, the event's host, and participated in a dance challenge. His charming performance had the Lovely fans cheering enthusiastically.

The performance continued with fan requests for cute gestures, which TEN executed perfectly, delighting the fans. He closed his set with "Waves," "Lie with You," and "STUNNER."

BamBam took the stage with a stylish flair, opening with "Thank You Come Again," "Wheels Up," and "Dancing by Myself." He greeted the "Aagasae" fan club with energy. The crowd roared as BamBam performed "Angel in Disguise," "Pee Mai Lot Luang," "More Than Friend," and "Wondering"—four songs that fans sang along to with full force.

During the casual chat segment with DJ Nooy, BamBam participated in a quick-draw challenge where he had just 10 seconds to sketch something for fans to guess. Fans deliberately gave wrong answers so BamBam would receive forfeit penalties, including wearing angel wings, a crown, and cat paws. He good-naturedly accepted and modeled the props, earning huge laughs and cheers from both mother fans and regular supporters. BamBam then continued with "Python," "Air," and "Ribbon."

A touching surprise moment came when TEN brought out a birthday cake on stage, sang "Happy Birthday" and offered advance birthday wishes to BamBam. It was a warm and endearing moment, and both artists expressed their hope to collaborate again in the future.

K-Pop Masterz 2026 BamBam & TEN SPECIAL LIVE in BANGKOK proved to be a highly anticipated concert, bringing together Thai K-pop artists who have achieved global success on a single stage. This was no ordinary concert—it was a phenomenon that reinforced the capabilities of Thai artists on the global K-pop stage and created unforgettable memories for Thai fans.

Follow updates on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok: grandstarconnext

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Government Spokesman Denies Fake News Claims About Southern Economic Corridor Bill Allowing Casinos and 99-Year Land Leases

The government spokesman denied viral claims that the Bhumjaithai Party and Prime Minister Anutin proposed a Southern Economic Corridor bill permitting casinos and 99-year land leases, stating the provisions were from an earlier draft by a former parliamentarian. She emphasized that the government established a committee to evaluate the Land Bridge project and will only proceed if it proves valuable and has public support.

8 May Khaosod

On May 8, 2025, Government Spokesman Rachada Thanadirek clarified false claims circulating online that Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Interior Minister, and the Bhumjaithai Party proposed a Southern Economic Corridor (SEC) bill authorizing casino construction and 99-year land leases. She confirmed these claims are untrue, stating that the provisions mentioned in the news were excerpted from an earlier draft bill on the Southern Economic Corridor development zone proposed by former parliamentarian Naphadol Keowsuphattana of the Thai Local Power Party. She noted that casino provisions have appeared in at least three other parliamentary bills, which can be verified on the parliamentary website.

Regarding the Land Bridge project, the Prime Minister established a committee headed by Deputy Prime Minister Ekniti Nitithanpracha and Finance Minister to study the initiative. Rachada emphasized that if the project is found to lack value or public support, it will not proceed. She stressed that the government must carefully consider and listen to all stakeholders before making decisions.

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Police

Thailand and US Join Forces to Hunt International Call Center Gang, Expose 'Orsamet' Hub Linked to Human Organ Trafficking

Thailand and the US are jointly investigating an international call center gang operating from the 'Orsamet' facility, where discovery of operating rooms and medical equipment suggests links to human organ trafficking networks across Southe

8 May Khaosod

Thailand and the US are teaming up to pursue an international call center gang, revealing evidence at the 'Orsamet' facility where operating rooms and medical equipment were discovered, pointing to human organ trafficking networks. On May 8, 2025, at the Royal Thai Police headquarters, Deputy Police Commissioner Pol. Gen. Thatchai Pitanilabut, director of the Anti-Human Trafficking Center, and Hatthaya Kusakul, director of the US and South Pacific Affairs Bureau at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with labor ministry representatives, announced results from discussions with the US government following an April 21-25 visit aimed at strengthening cooperation against transnational call center gangs, human trafficking, and forced labor. Hatthaya revealed that Thailand discussed with US agencies responsible for monitoring and assessing global human trafficking situations. Thailand has been ranked Tier 2 for four consecutive years and presented comprehensive anti-trafficking efforts, labor protections, and forced labor solutions, including progress on removing Thai products from lists linked to child and forced labor. She stated that the US praised Thailand's integrated approach across all agencies in prevention, suppression, and policy-making, with particular interest in arrest and prevention statistics. Hatthaya noted that Thailand has implemented stricter measures, including new laws and mechanisms for victim care, alongside capacity development for officials meeting international standards. The US also emphasized concern about online human trafficking and scam gangs in Southeast Asia, noting Americans suffer the highest victim numbers with damages exceeding $10 billion USD, and expressed commitment to joint law enforcement efforts. Pol. Gen. Thatchai stated that the US has special interest in call center gangs across Southeast Asia, particularly networks in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos that defraud victims from over 40 countries globally, not just Americans. He noted Thailand received praise for establishing a monitoring and victim assistance center for call center gang cases, which the US plans to replicate regionally. He highlighted Thailand's presentation of information on the Orsamet gang, one of the region's largest call center networks with over 10,000 people involved, where facilities contain detention rooms, forced labor sites, torture chambers, operating rooms, X-ray machines, and obstetric equipment. Both Thailand and the US suspect potential links to human organ trafficking networks, currently under expanded investigation. Pol. Gen. Thatchai reported that foreign nationals continue being deceived into Thailand before being trafficked to neighboring countries' call center operations, initially voluntary but becoming forced labor with torture as punishment. He noted information from the Brazilian embassy regarding at least 30 Brazilians tricked into working in Cambodia, alongside victims from Taiwan and Japan, requiring Thailand to urgently block use of its territory as a transit route for these operations.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Thai Airways Launches Cash + Miles Program for Instant Ticket Discounts Using Accumulated Miles

Thai Airways launched a new "Cash + Miles" program allowing frequent flyer members to combine accumulated miles with cash for instant ticket discounts on flights through thaiairways.com.

8 May Khaosod

Thai Airways announced on May 8, 2026, that it has unveiled the "Cash + Miles" service, a new option for Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) frequent flyer program members. This service enables members to use their accumulated miles as an immediate discount when purchasing airline tickets, with the flexibility to pay using a combination of cash and miles for greater convenience and value. The service is now available for booking through thaiairways.com.

The Cash + Miles service offers members an additional travel option that provides immediate benefits while allowing those with substantial mile balances to redeem them instantly and reduce travel expenses. Key features of the service include:

* The ability to combine miles with cash payment to receive instant ticket discounts * Immediate seat confirmation covering all participating flights * Continued accumulation of miles from travel, which will be credited back to the member's account according to program terms

The Cash + Miles service is available on numerous popular Thai Airways routes, with highlighted destinations including Narita, Shanghai, Sydney, and Amsterdam, enabling members to maximize the value of their miles and enjoy rewarding travel. Members interested in the service can now book and use Cash + Miles through thaiairways.com, subject to the company's terms and conditions.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Democrat Party's Time Has Come! Announcing Bangkok Governor Candidate on May 16, Confident They Can Beat Chatchatchai and Dr. Joh

The Democrat Party announced it will unveil its Bangkok gubernatorial candidate on May 16, confident the nominee can compete against rivals Chatchatchai Silpasuwan and incumbent Chumphon Silpasuwan. The party has finalized all 50 district council candidates and plans to emphasize large-scale urban development and infrastructure projects as their key differentiators in the upcoming Bangkok local elections.

8 May Khaosod

On May 8, 2025, at the Democrat Party headquarters, Sakolthee Pattiyakul, deputy leader of the Democrat Party overseeing Bangkok, discussed the party's readiness to announce its gubernatorial candidate and all Bangkok Metropolitan Council candidates. The party has now confirmed all 50 district candidates, with a seminar scheduled for Monday, May 11 to brief them on regulations and legal matters.

The gubernatorial candidate announcement is 100 percent ready, pending only personal background clearance. The official launch will take place on May 16 at 9:30 a.m. at party headquarters, featuring the gubernatorial candidate's vision and the unveiling of all 50 district council candidates. Campaign activities are expected to begin the following week.

Regarding the party's Bangkok development policies, Sakolthee explained they combine the party's previous platform with new proposals. While acknowledging that the current governor's work over the past four years has been acceptable and satisfying to many residents, he emphasized that some areas lack visible change—such as public transportation systems, waste management beyond just landfilling, and major infrastructure projects affecting residents' daily lives.

These issues will form the core of the Democrat Party's platform for Bangkok's next four years. The party aims to show Bangkok voters how the city will transform differently under a Democrat governor.

On the Bangkok Metropolitan Council candidates, Sakolthee noted the party has 12 former council members running, with others having strong performances in previous elections under different parties. First-time candidates may be individuals stepping down from national-level positions. The momentum from the party and its leadership in the last election will be a significant advantage, as local Bangkok elections differ considerably from national elections. With smaller constituencies and higher personal connections between candidates and voters, name recognition and local work become more important than in nationwide elections.

When asked about competing against Thai Raksa Chat's Chaiyawat Sathawaravedit and ruling Pheu Thai's Chumphon Silpasuwan, Sakolthee acknowledged both are formidable opponents. Chaiyawat has a strong profile and advantage because Thai Raksa Chat won all Bangkok constituencies in the national election, likely carrying momentum to local races. Regarding incumbent Chumphon, his four years of continuous work is understandably intimidating. However, Sakolthee emphasized the Democrats still have room to compete: the lack of significant development projects and major infrastructure improvements benefiting Bangkok during his tenure. This remains an opportunity for rival parties, particularly the Democrats, to gain ground.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

Saturday Fresh – 'Khao Kala' Joins Challenge to Verify 9 Alien Stories from 9 Celebrities

A new documentary "Khao Kala" explores alien and UFO legends surrounding a Nakhon Sawan mountain through nine celebrity accounts, blending witness testimony with cinematic storytelling to examine whether the mysterious events are fact or fi

8 May Khaosod

Plasteau Film Company invites fans to challenge mysterious international beliefs in "Khao Kala," a New-Age Mystery Documentary directed by Yangterk Thanadej Ramsompop with Toffee Shivadol Chantanasevi serving as producer.

"Khao Kala" is based on true events and legends about alien military bases and UFO sightings around Khao Kala mountain in Nakhon Sawan province. Through firsthand accounts and experiences from believers, viewers will question whether events are lies, truth, or mysterious beliefs through interviews and footage never before released. The film presents a new New-Age Mystery Documentary format.

The documentary features nine stories from nine individuals: Kong Huairai Akkaradej Yodjampa, Ar The Star Anathpol Sirichuemsang, Nacha Chiranutt Yuusanant, Prang Prangthip, Diew The Star Phattrapol Kanpotchon, Toffee Sambathasip Shivadol Chantanasevi, Tong Caramel Arthapol Rujira, Dr. Surat Vongratanpattanasorn, and Luang Poo Tone Suthdhajitto.

Cast members include Kong Huairai, Ar The Star, Nacha Chiranutt, Diew The Star, Toffee Sambathasip, Tong Caramel, Thitcha Wongtipaknanth, Fango Chatkamon, Beer Bafflock, Bee The Ska, Bell Spotzz, Benz Apache, Dow Phimthong, Sarah Salora, and others.

The project receives post-production support from VelCurve Studio and world-class visual effects expertise from East Magic, led by Acharya Ong Pathwicha Jritngam, who has contributed to numerous Hollywood productions. The Ministry of Culture supports the film as a Thai soft power project ready for international audiences.

Director Yangterk Thanadej explained: "Khao Kala is based on true events and legends about aliens and UFOs around Khao Kala mountain in Nakhon Sawan. It combines spiritual beliefs, conspiracy theories, and scientific interpretations at international standards. The mountain is famous as Thailand's UFO checkpoint, and we've reinterpreted these legends with greater intensity and intrigue."

Regarding presentation format, the director shared: "We deliberated extensively on how to tell this story while preserving truth. A conventional film would lose authenticity. After countless discussions over three years with Toffee, we settled on New Age Mystery Documentary—cinematic storytelling interspersed with real accounts from actual witnesses, like true documentary footage, enhanced with world-class visual effects and never-before-seen footage. You won't feel like watching a long film, but experiencing individual celebrity accounts we interviewed."

The choice of celebrities stems from the belief that ordinary people telling such stories risk ridicule, while established figures—actors, singers, monks, or businesspeople—lend credibility to these accounts.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026 to Return Bigger, Better, and Bolder at Impact Muang Thong Thani

Thailand's largest food and beverage trade show returns May 26-30, 2026 at Impact Muang Thong Thani, expecting nearly 3,600 exhibitors from 56 countries and over 90,000 visitors generating more than 130 billion baht in trade value.

8 May Khaosod

The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP) under the Ministry of Commerce, along with the Thai Chamber of Commerce (TCC) and Koelnmesse (KM), has announced the organization of THAIFEX – ANUGA ASIA 2026, the region's most comprehensive food and beverage trade show, scheduled for May 26-30, 2026 at Impact Muang Thong Thani. The event will return bigger, better, and bolder, expecting to attract food buyers and importers from over 130 countries worldwide and generate trade value exceeding 130 billion baht, reinforcing its role as an international food trade platform and supporting Thailand's ambition to become the world's food trading center.

Sunanta Kangwalrk, Director-General of the Department of International Trade Promotion, revealed that each region currently plays an increasing trade role, resulting in supply chain restructuring that has brought significant changes to the food industry, including rising costs that require businesses to manage risks and seek new raw material sources. Additionally, competitive dynamics have shifted, with increased competition in quality, standards, safety, traceability, and new regulations like ESG principles becoming mandatory trade conditions.

"The exhibition's strength lies in being the most comprehensive food and beverage trade show with a crucial role in Asia, bringing together products, innovations, and buyers from around the world in one place, facilitating trade negotiations, business networking, and long-term collaboration opportunities. This year features nearly 3,600 exhibitors with over 6,700 booths from 56 countries, covering major business regions including Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and Africa, with an expected attendance of over 90,000 visitors from 130 countries worldwide. The projected purchase value is expected to exceed 130 billion baht, reinforcing the event's role as a critically important international food trade platform in Asia and globally, and supporting the government's policy to position Thailand as the world's food trading center," Sunanta stated.

Sunanta further noted that this year's event will be grander in scale, with expanded space covering Impact Forum Building 4, creating a total exhibition area of 140,000 square meters capable of accommodating more products. The exhibition will be divided into 9 zones: beverages, ready-to-eat food, food technology, frozen food, vegetables and fruits, meat, rice, seafood, and snacks. Each zone will feature diverse offerings including general consumer food, halal food, organic food, health food, specialized nutrition food, future and sustainable food, and more.

Beyond food, beverages, and food technology, visitors will experience numerous interesting activities. Key highlights include a Thai fruit exhibition under the concept "THAILAND: The Land of Tropical Fruits," presenting both fresh Thai fruits and diversified processed products meeting modern consumer needs, along with award-winning products from the Agri-Export Star Pitching Challenge presented by Deputy Prime Minister and Commerce Minister Supajee Suthanthammakul, reflecting Thailand's agricultural quality and product development potential.

Dr. Kritsana Wachigarailash, Vice Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, stated that the Thai Chamber of Commerce aims for effective business matching at this event to benefit SMEs, startups, and companies of all sizes.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Community

Exploring the Dharma Bookshelf – 'All Beings Follow Their Karma'

A new Buddhist text explores karma as a fundamental doctrine, explaining three types—unwholesome, wholesome, and karma-ending—that most practitioners misunderstand despite the Buddha's emphasis on liberation through the Noble Eightfold Path

8 May Khaosod

The book 'All Beings Follow Their Karma,' authored by the Liang Chiang Publishing House team and published by Liang Chiang Publishing for Buddhism at 16 baht, presents karma as a fundamental Buddhist doctrine of major importance, earning Buddhism the designation as a 'karma religion.' Though the concept of karma existed before Buddhism, the Buddha uniquely understood and clarified the true law of karma, distinguishing it from three previous interpretations, and taught all beings how to correctly resolve problems stemming from karma.

While Buddhists believe in and value the law of karma more than other teachings, few truly understand it completely and correctly as the Buddha intended. Buddhist karma divides into three categories: unwholesome karma (akusala) rooted in greed, hatred, and delusion; wholesome karma (kusala) rooted in non-greed, non-hatred, and non-delusion; and karma that ends karma, which eliminates both wholesome and unwholesome karma and prevents rebirth—represented by the Noble Eightfold Path beginning with right view.

Most people understand only two types of karma: good and bad, remaining ignorant of the third type despite the Buddha's emphasis on it as the path to liberation and freedom from suffering and the cycle of death and rebirth. This teaching is unique to Buddhism and worthy of serious study.

'All Beings Follow Their Karma' reflects the purity and justice of natural law, granting all beings freedom to author their own lives—whatever karma one creates, one alone experiences its fruit.

Karma is a teaching the Buddha stressed throughout the Tripitaka and remains a primary subject of Buddhist study. This book divides into three main sections: knowledge about karma from various perspectives in the Tripitaka; designing a beautiful life through the ten paths of karma; and fourteen types of karma results experienced by the Buddha. The content helps readers gain deeper understanding of the law of karma.

Additionally featured this week: a book recommendation from Chulalongkorn University Press presenting 'Decoding Buddhist Thought for Life' by Rattana Pannyapah. Amid a society where many live with distorted thinking patterns, this book decodes correct Buddhist perspectives across seven dimensions relating to human existence—from viewing life holistically to addressing love, faith, mindfulness, and sufficiency.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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