Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Phipat Orders Rural Road Department to Accelerate Investment in Roads and Bridges to Reduce Inequality and Strengthen Grassroots Economy

Deputy Prime Minister Phipat Ratchakij announced the 'Rural Roads for People' policy, directing the Department of Rural Roads to accelerate major infrastructure projects nationwide aimed at reducing costs and inequality while strengthening community economies. The government plans to fast-track significant projects including the Songkhla Lake Bridge and Ko Lanta bridge in Krabi, along with over 333 community road projects totaling 813 kilometers. The initiative emphasizes safety, environmental sustainability, and leveraging tourism to boost local economic opportunities across all regions.

11 May Khaosod

Deputy Prime Minister and Transport Minister Phipat Ratchakij rolled out the 'Rural Roads for People' policy on May 11, 2025, directing the Department of Rural Roads to accelerate a mega-project focused on reducing costs and connecting community economies nationwide. The initiative, led by Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, prioritizes addressing cost-of-living issues, reducing inequality, and building economic resilience. Phipat instructed the Department of Rural Roads—as the agency with the most extensive network reaching communities—to modernize the nation's transportation system while ensuring safety and environmental friendliness. The ultimate goal is to reduce travel expenses, lower transportation burdens, and create economic opportunities for citizens. The department plans to maximize budget efficiency, implement advanced safety measures, address PM 2.5 pollution, convert streetlights to LED systems, and install solar farms along routes. Major projects include the Songkhla Lake Bridge connecting Songkhla and Phatthalung provinces, and the Ko Lanta bridge in Krabi, both with secured funding from the World Bank. The department is also advancing the Thailand Riviera coastal road project from Samut Songkhram to Narathiwat, the Mekong Riverside Road (Nakhavithi) to boost local tourism revenue, and over 333 community road projects totaling 813 kilometers with 46 concrete bridges nationwide. Additionally, the department emphasized emergency response capabilities, deploying machinery and aid to flood-affected areas in Hatyai, and implementing smart traffic management technology for real-time safety monitoring.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
Regional

Khao Khiao Open Zoo Director Receives National 'Silver Conch' Public Relations Award

Khao Khiao Open Zoo director Narongvit Chadchoy received Thailand's prestigious Silver Conch award for organizational excellence in public relations and communications. The national honor recognizes the zoo's conservation efforts and global

11 May Khaosod

On May 11, 2569, Narongvit Chadchoy, director of Khao Khiao Open Zoo, accepted the 26th Silver Conch Honorary Award on behalf of the zoo, receiving the organizational category award from the Public Relations Association of Thailand. The award ceremony was held at the Department of Public Relations conference room, presided over by Air Chief Marshal Chalit Phukphatsuk.

The Silver Conch Honorary Award is a prestigious national award recognizing organizations, institutions, and individuals with outstanding achievements in communications and public relations that benefit the nation, as well as those who support and promote public relations work and the dissemination of information beneficial to society.

Receiving this award represents another source of pride for Khao Khiao Open Zoo, which remains committed to delivering communications and public relations work alongside wildlife conservation, education, and visitor engagement with strong media support.

The zoo continues to develop creative public relations initiatives through activities and storytelling that showcase the appeal of wildlife, fostering public awareness and understanding of conservation efforts. Through strategic social media engagement, the zoo has achieved global recognition with phenomena such as 'Moo Deng,' the pygmy hippopotamus, creating international awareness and love for wildlife while promoting Thailand's conservation and tourism image worldwide.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
National

Net Siraphop Releases Love Song 'Kham Kha Nung' from 'Phop Khong Thee' OST to Express the Feelings of a Lovesick Heart

Actor Net Siraphop releases the love song "Kham Kha Nung" from the "Phop Khong Thee" series OST, capturing the longing and emotional depth of his character's unrequited feelings for a co-star during a mystery investigation.

11 May Khaosod

The more you listen, the more you miss! Net Siraphop delivers the love song 'Kham Kha Nung (Within)' from the 'Phop Khong Thee' OST to express the feelings of someone lovesick at heart, hoping it becomes another favorite among series fans.

Every moment of longing and remembrance is given entirely to her without expecting anything in return. As days pass, the emotions become increasingly clear when 'Than Muean Phop' finally understands that his concern for 'Klaeo' isn't merely a sibling's care, but has transformed into love and a deep bond that develops while investigating the truth behind Klaeo's disappearance in 'Phop Khong Thee: Love Upon a Time Series,' starring Net Siraphop, JJ Ratchapol, Latae Thanaratchachon, and Kim Pongsathorn.

When these clear emotions are conveyed through the song 'Kham Kha Nung (Within),' the fourth track from the 'Phop Khong Thee: Love Upon a Time Series' OST, it becomes a love song that expresses longing, the care of one's heart, and the beloved who is like one's heart itself. The song is performed by the series' leading actor Net Siraphop in the role of 'Muean Phop.'

Produced by 'S1 Music' and the 'Wisp Team' production team, the song's distinctive music, melody, and the characters' emotional connection make it certain that this track will resonate in everyone's thoughts and memories.

Net shared his feelings after participating in the song, expressing joy in conveying the emotions of a lovesick young man who constantly thinks of and worries about someone, even in his dreams. It's a beautiful and catchy song. He hopes every series fan will love it and follow along.

The song 'Kham Kha Nung (Within)' from 'Phop Khong Thee: Love Upon a Time Series' OST and its music video are available today on YouTube at DMD MUSIC. Join 'Shan' in discovering whether the truth behind 'Klaeo's' disappearance will be uncovered.

Watch every Friday at 9:30 PM on Workpoint 23 channel, or watch reruns on YouTube at Mandee Channel and stream the UNCUT version at 10:30 PM on iQIYI app and iQ.com website exclusively.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
National

Thailand U-19 National Team Announces 30-Player Squad for ASEAN Championship Preparation

Thailand's U-19 football team has named a 30-player squad to prepare for the June 2026 ASEAN Championship in North Sumatra, Indonesia, where they'll face Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei in group play.

11 May Khaosod

The Thailand Football Association has announced a 30-player roster for the U-19 national team under the guidance of head coach Chakraphan Panpee, who will prepare the squad for the 2026 ASEAN U-19 Championship held June 1-14 in North Sumatra, Indonesia. Thailand's U-19 team is placed in Group B alongside Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, competing in a round-robin format with group winners and the best second-placed team advancing to the semifinals.

Goalkeepers: Phoomirapi Siribunnyakul (Kashima Gakuen High School), Prapoj Jonjaroen (Buriram United), Rangsiman Khemmueang (Port FC), Supakorn Poolpol (Nongbua Pitcha FC)

Defenders: Vision Inaaram, Purich Sappahensawang, Surachai Boonchari, Jirapong Chamsukul, Suphatthat Mahavaiwai, Theerathep Thongkham, Aphiwit Laorkoikai, Punyaphop Kunsri, Puripan Pothithong (all listed with their respective clubs including True Bangkok United, Ban Bueng FC, Buriram United, Hornbill Junior, Buripha United, Muang Thong United)

Midfielders: Danupol Bupapha (Muang Thong United), Wachirwuthi Saenjaek (BG Pathum United), David Songsampao (Hua Hin City), Ratchanon Kochsenee (Buriram United), Pichya Kongsri (True Bangkok United), Nattachon Chandi (Chachoengsao United), Phattarathorn Buransuk (Nongbua Pitcha FC), Wongkorn Buasumlee (Pram Bangkok), Peerda Lasawat (Pram Bangkok)

Forwards: Witthawat Praowthaisongsong, Itthinon Thipenet, Shiwakorn Phonsaland, Kongnat Thuamthongdee (BG Pathum United), Nattakitti Pothisri (Port FC), Ruski Gadere (True Bangkok United), Rachat Prachasil (Hua Hin City), Sirisarn Chanjamjaisat (Assumption United)

The squad will report for training on May 13 at Dynamic Football Camp in Samut Prakan before 23 final players are selected for the trip to Indonesia. Group matches are scheduled for June 2 against Brunei, June 5 against Singapore, and June 8 against Malaysia at various stadiums in North Sumatra.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
National

Labor Ministry to Overhaul Law, Bringing Platform Workers into Social Security System with New Provisions for Riders

Thailand's Labor Ministry plans to reform social security laws to include platform workers like food delivery riders, currently numbering over 300,000 and expected to reach 1 million within 3-5 years.

11 May Khaosod

Labor Minister Chulphan Amornvivat announced plans to overhaul social security laws to bring platform workers and gig workers into the social security system with appropriate protections aligned to modern work arrangements.

Amornvivat stated that the rapid changes in the global economy, particularly the growth of e-commerce and food delivery platforms, have led to a continuous increase in rider workers. Currently numbering over 300,000 people, the minister projects this could reach 1 million within 3-5 years.

"The key challenge is how to ensure this workforce receives social security protections and benefits, as the labor market landscape has fundamentally changed and laws must adapt accordingly," Amornvivat said.

The Labor Ministry is currently consulting with rider groups, private platform operators, and studying international models for potential adaptation in Thailand. Amornvivat acknowledged that platform workers have unique characteristics distinct from traditional employees—for instance, a single rider may work for multiple platforms simultaneously and may not work full-time.

"A critical question is who would be considered the employer, as some countries have designated the food ordering customer as the employer, but we must study whether such a model would work in Thailand," Amornvivat explained.

Regardless of the approach taken, amendments to social security law will be necessary—either by modifying existing definitions or introducing new provisions specifically for platform workers.

"There are two concepts under consideration: incorporating them into existing provisions, or creating entirely new provisions specifically for platform workers, since their work structure is genuinely different," Amornvivat stated.

When asked if this means adding new categories of self-insured persons beyond the existing sections 33, 39, and 40, Amornvivat confirmed that the Labor Ministry has established a joint working group between political and administrative branches to study legislative approaches. No specific timeline has been set, though the ministry pledged to accelerate the process while soliciting input from all stakeholders.

"We cannot make unilateral decisions; we must engage with all parties—workers, platforms, and relevant agencies—to reach consensus," Amornvivat concluded.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Weather Clears: Thai Windsurfing Team Trains at Sea Before Portuguese Championship

Thailand's windsurfing team completed sea training in Portugal after initial rainstorms cleared, preparing six athletes for the May 2026 IQ Foil European Championship in Portimão.

11 May Khaosod

Thailand's windsurfing team encountered rainstorms that delayed their initial training, but after weather conditions improved, they successfully conducted sea training in Portugal. Although facing large waves, strong winds, and alternating rain and sunshine, all athletes adapted well and are prepared for the 2026 IQ Foil European Championship in Portimão, Portugal, running from May 16-23, 2026.

The Thai windsurfing team competing in the championship consists of six athletes: Nitiphattana Chaiyavutthivettaya, Siriporn Keadduangngam, Wachirawit Thanuap, Wachirawit Manburung, Ratchanan Khuncheng, and Chanatkaan Chareunsuk, led by coaches Nathphongse Pothinophrat and Sakda Skulfahng. They departed for pre-competition training starting May 4, 2026.

Pattana Bunsawat, secretary-general of the Windsurfing Association, reported that upon arrival, storms disrupted initial training as weather conditions were unfavorable with heavy rain and strong winds and waves. Coaches had athletes train through running, wading, and beach volleyball to maintain fitness. After 2-3 days, conditions cleared and sea training commenced. Despite fairly large waves, strong winds, and intermittent rain and sunshine, all athletes performed well. Night temperatures dropped, causing some cold, prompting coaches to monitor athletes' health closely.

Bunsawat stated: "This team includes both senior and youth athletes. The association intends to use this championship as preparation for Thai national athletes competing in upcoming international competitions, particularly the 20th Asian Games in Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, 2026. We believe the athletes will strengthen their capabilities and develop their potential significantly."

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

PM Vows to Use Law to Handle Chinese ID Registration Issue, Says No New Parliament Session Needed

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed concerns about lax ID registration for Chinese nationals, stating that existing legal frameworks are sufficient and no new parliamentary session is needed. He emphasized that authorities will strictly enforce regulations and prosecute any officials found responsible for failures. The PM also directed police to conduct thorough investigations into a case involving a Chinese national caught with multiple firearms, vowing to dismantle any associated networks.

11 May Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul addressed allegations that security authorities and the Ministry of Interior have been lax in issuing ID cards to Chinese nationals, leading to document fraud cases. Speaking at Government House on May 11, 2569, the PM stated that ID registration and nationality transfer procedures have been tightened since these issues emerged, though he declined to name specific cases out of respect for personal rights. He confirmed no improper nationality grants have been made.

When asked if new parliamentary legislation was necessary, the PM emphasized existing regulations are adequate, stating authorities simply need to prevent individuals with legal issues or criminal records from entering the system. He dismissed concerns that problematic cases could slip through, noting that government review and vetting processes prevent evasion, and those responsible for failures—such as an official in Chiang Mai involved in selling ID cards—face prosecution and dismissal.

Regarding the arrest of a Chinese national possessing numerous firearms, the PM noted the case began Saturday, May 9, with ongoing investigation expansion. He stressed that under Interior Ministry orders issued 2-3 years ago, firearm possession is prohibited with no exceptions, particularly for foreigners. The PM instructed police to expand the investigation to dismantle associated networks and ensure no security threats remain to the country or Thai citizens.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Government Moves Forward with 4 Trillion Baht Emergency Decree Without Waiting for Court or Parliament Ruling

Thailand's government is moving forward with a controversial 4 trillion baht emergency borrowing decree without waiting for court rulings or full parliamentary action, according to government officials. Budget reallocation efforts to address the decree are expected to yield less than 30 billion baht rather than the initially projected 50-70 billion, as the government prioritizes maintaining economic activity by continuing approved projects with reduced funding allocations.

11 May Khaosod

On May 11, 2025, at Government House, Paradorn Parisunantkul, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office and overseer of the Budget Bureau, disclosed progress on budget reallocation intended to address urgent national needs. While the Finance Ministry and Budget Bureau initially estimated 50-70 billion baht in budget returns, recent verification revealed the actual amount may not exceed 30 billion baht.

Paradorn explained that the lower-than-expected figure results from the government's policy to continue project implementation to keep the economy moving. Clear criteria have been established: any projects not commenced by the April 30 deadline will have their budgets withdrawn. However, for projects with binding commitments, the government opted to reduce first-year budget allocations rather than cancel them entirely. For example, projects originally approved for 20 percent first-year disbursement may be reduced to 10-15 percent to allow them to proceed and avoid broader economic impact.

Regarding the progress of the 4 trillion baht emergency decree, Paradorn stated that despite the opposition submitting the matter to court, since the law has already been published in the Government Gazette, parliamentary proceedings continue normally. The government has already submitted the matter to both the House of Representatives and Senate, with the parliamentary speaker expected to include it on the meeting agenda around May 14, pending the speaker's discretion.

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
National

SAM Launches Self-Service Debt Resolution System to Help Low-Income Debtors Clear Debt and Move Forward

Sukhumvit Asset Management Company has launched a self-service debt resolution platform on LINE that allows low-income debtors to manage repayment independently, with options including up to 50% principal reduction and flexible installment

11 May Khaosod

Sukhumvit Asset Management Company Limited (SAM) has unveiled a Smart Self Service system on LINE @samsocialamc to help low-income debtors resolve their debts independently through the "Clear Debt and Move Forward" program. On May 11, 2025, Ms. Naratnarida Rattapat, Managing Director of SAM, announced that the new platform allows borrowers to manage their entire debt resolution process from start to finish—including eligibility verification, registration, identity confirmation, selecting repayment measures, and finalizing contracts and payments—all through LINE.

The Smart Self Service platform aims to make debt resolution accessible, convenient, and dignified. SAM believes that when individuals break free from debt, their families gain improved quality of life, stability, and economic security. The system offers two flexible repayment options: the "Pay, Close, Done" measure with up to 50% principal reduction and immediate account closure, and the "Installment Repayment" measure with 30% principal reduction, no interest, and repayment periods up to 3 years.

The self-service process involves six steps: adding the LINE friend, verifying eligibility and registering, confirming identity via ID scan and facial recognition, setting access codes and OTP verification, selecting an appropriate repayment plan, reviewing and signing the contract, and making payments via QR code scanning. Eligible participants must be individual debtors with non-performing loan (NPL) status from credit cards, personal loans, or secured debt exceeding 90 days as of September 30, 2024, with combined debt not exceeding 100,000 baht per person, and must not be bankrupt or sanctioned. SAM assures that all transactions through the LINE platform are secure and comply with anti-money laundering standards set by the Office of the Anti-Money Laundering Commission.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
National

Tourism Minister Moves to Eliminate Free Visa Policy, Reduce Foreign Tourist Stay Duration in Thailand

Thailand's Tourism Minister is moving to eliminate free visa exemptions and reduce foreign tourist stays from 60 days to 30 days, aligning with data showing most visitors stay only nine days on average.

11 May Khaosod

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister is moving to eliminate the free visa exemption for foreigners and reduce their allowed stay duration in the country. Minister Surasak Panchjaroen revealed on May 11 that the visa exemption cancellation is being prepared for submission to the Cabinet, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs handling all details. The measure will reduce permitted stay periods to match individual countries' profiles, down from the current 60-day free visa for citizens of 93 countries.

The adjustment aims to better align with actual tourist behavior and help prevent criminals from entering under the guise of tourists. Research shows that foreign visitors' average stay in Thailand is approximately 9 days, with Norway having the longest average at 21 days. Setting a 30-day visa limit is therefore considered sufficient. Those with other purposes, such as internships or medical treatment, can apply for alternative visa categories suited to their needs.

The minister expressed confidence that reducing foreign tourist stay durations will not negatively impact Thailand's overall tourism market. Panchjaroen also announced that the ministry is moving forward with collecting an entry fee from foreign tourists at a preliminary rate of 300 baht per person per visit, primarily targeting air arrivals, with proceeds going to Thailand's tourism promotion fund. He confirmed this measure will be implemented.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
Community

Adorable: Puppy Remembers Owner's Workplace After Just One Walk, Now Visits Daily

A puppy in China's Guizhou Province memorized its owner's workplace route after just one walk and now escapes home almost daily to visit her, delighting coworkers with enthusiastic reunions.

11 May Khaosod

A woman who adopted a puppy took the young dog for a walk that passed by her workplace just once. Remarkably, the puppy remembered the route and now attempts to sneak away from home nearly every day to visit her, becoming an adorable viral moment that has delighted internet users.

The heartwarming incident took place in Guizhou Province, China. A young woman adopted a four-month-old puppy from an animal shelter, with her home located only about a five-minute walk from her workplace. She recounted that on one outing, she took the puppy past her office building, just that single time. Yet the clever pup memorized the entire route and now persistently tries to escape home to find her almost every day, regardless of family members' attempts to prevent it. Some days, the determined puppy even makes multiple round trips, and occasionally brings other dogs along.

Footage shot by her coworkers shows that each time the puppy arrives, it rushes straight to its owner, wagging its tail and wiggling its body with unmistakable joy, bringing smiles to all who witness it.

After the video was shared online, netizens offered affectionate comments such as "The pup must be checking if mom is really working" and "Maybe it's too hot and wants to enjoy the air conditioning at the shop."

However, some users issued cautions: while the dog's ability to remember the route is impressive, letting it roam alone still carries risks including traffic accidents, encounters with strangers, and unforeseen dangers. Pet owners should use a leash or provide supervision to ensure their pet's safety.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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