Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Settha Points to Wealth Migration as Opportunity for Thailand to Become Economic Hub

Former Prime Minister Settha Thavisin argues that Thailand should leverage the global wealth migration trend to become an economic hub rather than merely a safe haven, noting that over 142,000 ultra-high-net-worth individuals are expected to relocate in 2025. While Thailand is increasingly attracting foreign residents and investors, particularly through its Long-Term Resident Visa program, he emphasizes the nation must develop clear policies, improve infrastructure, and elevate workforce skills to achieve sustainable long-term investment. Thavisin warns that success should ultimately be measured by how much Thai citizens benefit from this economic transformation.

1 May Khaosod

Former Prime Minister Settha Thavisin has identified the global wealth migration trend as a significant economic phenomenon that presents Thailand with an opportunity to advance the nation, provided it can transition from being a 'safe haven' to becoming a genuine 'economic hub'.

According to Henley & Partners data, over 142,000 ultra-high-net-worth individuals are expected to relocate globally in 2025—the highest number on record. This reflects structural changes in the global economy, where capital and individuals have greater freedom to choose their residence and investment base. "This isn't merely about people relocating," Thavisin noted, "but rather international competition to attract talented individuals, capital, and economic opportunities."

Countries like the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and Australia have become prime destinations for wealth migration by building confidence through consistent policies, tax frameworks, and quality of life. For Thailand, Thavisin observed that "Thailand is increasingly appearing on the radar of this migration trend, reflected in rising foreign demand for residential properties, particularly in Bangkok and Phuket, as well as growing interest in the Long-Term Resident Visa (LTR Visa) program, which has attracted tens of thousands of applicants in recent years according to BOI data."

However, Thailand must still develop further to transform from a temporary "stopover" into a long-term investment destination. "Countries that attract long-term capital aren't risk-free countries, but rather predictable ones with consistent rules and credibility," Thavisin stated.

World Bank and Bank of Thailand data show that capital flowing into developing countries tends to be short-term portfolio flows rather than direct foreign investment (FDI)—a critical challenge Thailand must address to improve the quality of inbound capital.

Thavisin emphasized that this transformation extends beyond merely attracting foreign capital; it requires Thailand's readiness to support a "new economic paradigm" connected to the global world and driven by new skill sets. However, data from the National Economic and Social Development Council reveals that over 70% of Thai workers remain in low-to-medium skill categories. The council warned: "If Thailand doesn't accelerate workforce skill development and create linkages between global capital and domestic talent, it could lead to wider inequality. Overall, Thailand must envision itself as a future metropolitan nation and cultivate a metropolitan mindset among its people simultaneously."

From a policy perspective, Thavisin recommends that the public sector accelerate creation of clear and consistent frameworks, invest in infrastructure, and develop workforce skills, while the private and educational sectors must collaborate to enhance Thai human capital competitiveness in the new economy.

"The question isn't whether Thailand can be a safe haven, but how we can advance toward becoming an economic hub and ensure Thai people grow alongside this transformation," he concluded.

Thavisin also noted that success in the wealth migration era shouldn't be measured solely by the number of people or capital flowing in, but by the increased opportunities and wealth that Thai citizens gain from this change.

No. 01 of Read at source → Next
Police

Thawee Presents Evidence to Implicate 'Masterminds' in Kamalsakdi Murder Case; Police Abandon Neutrality and Issue Arrest Warrants as Concerns Grow Over 'Cover-Up' Attempts Involving Montri and Decho

A Thai Nation Party legal team presented evidence implicating additional suspects in the Kamalsakdi murder case, with party leader Thawee Sodsong urging police to issue arrest warrants for two individuals while warning of potential cover-up

1 May Khaosod

The Thai Nation Party intensifies its push as Pol. Lt. Col. Thawee Sodsong, party leader, heads a legal team to unravel the murder case of Kamalsakdi Liwamaung. The victim himself fears a potential 'cover-up' that would confine the investigation to only the first five suspects, exposing how critical documents have gone missing to an independent investigation unit instead of remaining with police investigators. He is pressing authorities to urgently extract data from 10 phone numbers before they are automatically erased under PDPA rules within three months, insisting the evidence against Montri and Decho is solid enough to issue arrest warrants immediately.

On May 1, 2025, Pol. Lt. Col. Thawee Sodsong, the Thai Nation Party chairman, along with his legal team, attended a meeting to review the case progress. Kamalsakdi Liwamaung participated as the injured party, summarizing new evidence that could potentially link to the "masterminds." Kamalsakdi revealed to the press that after filing additional complaints against two more individuals—Montri and Decho—on charges of "conspiring, hiring, or supporting an assassination attempt," similar to the initial five suspects, he is confident the evidence gathered by his party is weighty enough for police to immediately issue arrest or summons warrants.

"From our perspective, Montri's conduct is clearly not just supportive—the car loans, the film surveillance, and the use of fake license plates are all sufficient grounds for charges. But why are investigators delaying? In three-province cases previously, charges were filed based solely on questioning in special courts, yet this case seems to operate by different standards," Kamalsakdi stated.

The most concerning issue involves telephone communication records. Kamalsakdi indicated he requested additional investigation on seven points, particularly 10 phone numbers involved in the case, only to encounter legal obstacles related to PDPA restrictions and deliberate delays.

"We asked investigators where the communication documents are, and they said they're with the independent investigation unit, not with the police investigators. What does that mean? Telecom companies only keep phone records for three months before automatically deleting them. The longer we wait, the more evidence disappears. Is this an attempt to wrap things up at just the first five suspects as the media has suggested?"

Kamalsakdi openly acknowledged his concerns about "justice," noting he received information that certain officials handling the case harbor personal prejudices against him. However, over the past 2-3 days, the Chulachomklao Camp commander met with him to clarify and confirm that if any personnel in involved agencies show bias, full legal action would be taken, as such conduct is personal misconduct, not organizational policy.

In closing remarks, Kamalsakdi sent a strong signal to state authorities that this case is not a personal matter, but one being watched by people across the three provinces and parts of Songkhla.

"Don't protect certain individuals at the expense of the majority's problems. Don't fuel conflict through dual-standard justice. If the justice process is compromised, society will immediately view it as a reflection of institutional failure, creating a new condition in the region that will make community work even harder for the next hundred years," Kamalsakdi concluded.

No. 02 of Read at source → Next
Police

Thai Government Welcomes Transfer of Aung San Suu Kyi to House Arrest, Pledges Support for Myanmar Peace and Stability

Thailand welcomed Myanmar's transfer of Aung San Suu Kyi to house arrest and pledged support for the country's peace process, with Deputy PM Sihasak discussing bilateral ties during an April visit to Naypyidaw.

1 May Khaosod

The Thai government welcomed Myanmar's decision to transfer Aung San Suu Kyi back to house arrest, reflecting positive developments. According to government spokesman Ratchada Thanadirek on May 1, Thailand is prepared to facilitate appropriate and gradual interaction between ASEAN and Myanmar to advance the peace and reconciliation process within the country.

During Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeaw's visit to Myanmar on April 22, discussions with President Min Aung Hlaing proceeded constructively, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations, border security matters, and preparations to reopen the Mae Sot-Myawaddy border crossing.

Myanmar's leadership confirmed that Aung San Suu Kyi, the former State Counsellor, is in good health and indicated positive measures will be taken in the future. Thailand welcomed the release of detainees, including former President U Win Myint, on the occasion of Myanmar's New Year celebrations, and supports Myanmar's ongoing efforts to engage with all stakeholders toward sustainable peace and reconciliation.

Thailand commends Myanmar's commitment to advancing the peace process and its invitation to armed groups to participate in peace negotiations to restore peace and stability to the country. Thailand pledges continued support and cooperation with Myanmar and ASEAN in providing humanitarian assistance to those in need.

"The Thai government continues to closely monitor the situation in Myanmar, employing an appropriate and gradual engagement approach to support peace, stability, and sustainable development through cooperation with all parties under the ASEAN framework, for the benefit of the Myanmar people and regional stability," the spokesman concluded.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Rider's Sister in Tears: Brother Killed by BMW Just Weeks After Buying Motorcycle, Before First Payment Due

A 27-year-old motorcycle delivery rider was killed in a collision with a BMW in Pathum Thani Province on April 30, 2025, just weeks after purchasing the bike and before making his first payment. His grieving sister revealed that he was the family's sole breadwinner, supporting their elderly parents and his young son through long daily work shifts. The incident has reignited concerns about road safety and calls for accountability from those responsible for the fatal crash.

1 May Khaosod

A delivery rider's sister tearfully shared that her brother was the family's primary source of income, supporting their parents and raising his own young son. He worked from dawn to dusk as a rider and had just purchased the motorcycle involved in the accident less than a month prior, having not yet made his first installment payment. On April 30, 2025, the 27-year-old rider, known as Alongkorn (surname withheld), was fatally struck by a BMW at Bang Khen-Nong Suea Road in front of a condominium in Khlong Luang District, Pathum Thani Province.

As of May 1, 2025, his 30-year-old sister, Ms. Kitima, revealed through tears that her brother was the backbone of the family, sending money to their parents and caring for his own child. He typically worked all day, and the motorcycle he was riding had been purchased less than a month earlier, with the first payment not yet due. Previously, in 2020, her brother had suffered a serious accident that left his leg injured, requiring lengthy medical treatment. Once recovered, he returned to delivery work to continue supporting the family until this tragic incident occurred.

Reporters visited the area where delivery riders gather for work and met with Pairoj, nicknamed Bank, age 27, a close friend of the deceased. He and other friends had brought cigarettes, coffee, and beverages the victim regularly consumed each morning as a memorial. Pairoj revealed that he and the victim often waited for jobs in this area. The victim was hardworking, arriving early each morning and abstaining from alcohol. The tragic accident has deeply affected the group of friends, and they are calling on the responsible party to take full accountability and provide compensation to the victim's family, as they are all simply trying to make a living.

No. 04 of Read at source → Next
Breaking

Close Call on Labor Day: 18-Year-Old Worker Electrocuted While Installing Animal Netting on Power Pole

An 18-year-old construction worker was electrocuted and suspended from a power pole while installing animal protection netting in Samut Prakan province on Labor Day. Emergency responders rescued him from a height of 6 meters and transported him to the hospital. Police are investigating the incident, which preliminary reports suggest occurred when the worker climbed too high and contacted high-voltage electrical lines.

1 May Khaosod

At 2:00 PM on May 1, 2025, the Samut Prakan emergency dispatch center received a report of a person electrocuted and stuck on a power pole near Hamdaeng-Bangpli Road 29 in Bang Kaew, Bang Phli district, Samut Prakan province. Rescue teams from Ruam Katanyu Foundation immediately responded to the scene.

Rescuers found an 18-year-old contract worker suspended approximately 6 meters above ground in the middle of the power pole. He had been electrocuted while installing animal protection netting on the pole. After assessing the situation and risks, responders carefully brought him down and transported him to Samut Prakan Hospital.

According to his coworkers, three workers had come to install the animal netting that day. The victim was the one who climbed up to attach the netting. It appears he climbed too high, causing him to make contact with the high-voltage power lines, resulting in electrocution and injury.

Police from Bang Kaew station are conducting a full investigation into the exact cause of the incident for further legal proceedings.

No. 05 of Read at source → Next
National

Special Report – JUMP+ Navigates Thai Capital Market Crisis with Three-Year Plan to Revive Listed Companies and Restore Investor Confidence

Thailand's Stock Exchange launched the "JUMP+" three-year initiative to address the capital market crisis caused by capital outflows, weakened stocks, and record-low IPO activity. The program targets 180 listed companies (7% of total but representing 45% of market value) to enhance their business performance, governance, and sustainability through structured business, governance, and climate action plans. Participating companies have committed to achieve at least 50% profit growth over three years, with the program already showing positive results in attracting foreign investment and improving market valuations.

1 May Khaosod

Amid intense pressure on Thailand's capital market from capital outflows, weakening stock performance, and IPO activity at a 20-year low, the "JUMP+" initiative has been launched as a three-year strategic program to enhance listed companies' business operations, governance, and sustainability. The program aims to restore global investor confidence.

Key Challenges to Address

Sarawit noted that Thailand's capital market faces severe pressure from investor outflows, causing continuous declines in market value and stock indices despite slight recovery at year's beginning. Initial public offerings (IPOs) have slumped significantly, hitting a 20-year low and reflecting deteriorating confidence among both issuers and investors. Additionally, structural problems plague many listed companies, including low return on equity (ROE) and undervaluation relative to potential, with unfavorable price-to-earnings (P/E) and price-to-book (P/B) ratios dampening investor interest in Thai capital markets.

Value-Addition Model

The Stock Exchange developed "JUMP+" based on a Korean model to reduce the corporate discount—the gap between actual and potential company values—focusing on major enterprises. Participating companies number 180, representing only 7% of listed firms but accounting for 45% of market capitalization. Results show the program has successfully attracted foreign investment back into the market, boosting market indices and valuation metrics including P/E and P/B ratios since launch, aided by other factors such as AI trends and capital inflows.

JUMP+ Structure: Three Principles, Three Plans

The JUMP+ program operates on three key principles: Growth (emphasizing companies with expansion potential and commitment), Visibility (promoting disclosure of business plans, operational results, and investor communication), and Incentive (supporting company operations across various dimensions).

Participating companies must develop three-year JUMP+ plans (2026-2028) approved by their boards:

1. Business Plan: Targets company value enhancement by 2028 with comprehensive strategic plans 2. Governance Plan: Covering board structure and qualifications, oversight of accountability and transparency, and human resource and risk management oversight 3. Climate Action Plan: Addressing greenhouse gas management

Participant Profile: Small but Ambitious

Unlike Korea's program, Thailand's JUMP+ targets mid-sized and small companies. Among 143 participating firms—87 from SET and 56 from mai—analysis reveals:

– Approximately 78% have market capitalizations below 5 billion baht – About 60% show ROE below 10%, below their cost of equity, indicating returns below shareholder costs – More than half have P/E ratios below 10 times and P/B ratios below 1, reflecting significant valuation discounts with substantial growth potential

Participating companies have committed to profit growth targets of at least 50% over three years, demonstrating management determination.

Disclosure-Based Approach: Platform for Investor Decision-Making

JUMP+ operates on disclosure-based principles, using information transparency as its foundation while letting investors make their own decisions.

No. 06 of Read at source → Next
National

Social Security Holds National Labor Day Event with Benefits Check and Free Health Screenings

Thailand's Social Security Office hosts a National Labor Day event May 1 in Bangkok featuring free health screenings, vaccinations, and benefits enrollment for workers and informal sector employees.

1 May Khaosod

The Labor Ministry and Social Security Office are inviting workers, insured persons, and the general public to the 2025 National Labor Day celebration on May 1 at Larn Khon Muang near Bangkok City Hall. Deputy Prime Minister Yotchanan Wongsawatsdi will serve as the event's opening ceremony chair.

Kanchana Pooljack, Secretary General of the Social Security Office, announced the office's continued participation in promoting social security benefits and improving access for all insured groups. This year's event will feature exhibition booths, educational sessions on social security benefits, and enrollment opportunities for informal workers seeking coverage under Section 39 and Section 40.

The event also includes free flu vaccinations (four strains), basic health screenings through affiliated hospitals, health consultations, entertainment booths, and prize-winning games throughout the day.

Workers have submitted eight key demands, including expanding social security benefits for state enterprise employees under Section 40, increasing maternity benefits, extending post-retirement protections, and raising age limits for older populations. The Labor Minister has tasked the Social Security Office with studying these proposals to ensure comprehensive, equitable coverage that genuinely improves workers' quality of life.

The Social Security Office reaffirms its commitment to continuous system development, ensuring all insured persons receive appropriate benefits, financial security, reduced inequality, and sustainable social equity.

No. 07 of Read at source → Next
National

Auspicious News Flash – Phra Thammawitchirpatiphan Delivers Sermon on 'Sarika Feeding the Prey'

Phra Thammawitchirpatiphan has been granted a new ecclesiastical title by royal proclamation, elevating his status as a respected Buddhist scholar and dhamma discourse master at Wat Prayurawongsa Wiharn in Bangkok. The 76-year-old monk is renowned for his innovative teaching methods that emphasize critical thinking and accessibility to people of all levels, rather than mere memorization of Buddhist texts. Known especially for spontaneous dhamma dialogue and numerous published works on Buddhism, he continues to inspire faith and spread Buddhist teachings through lectures to students, officials, and the general public.

1 May Khaosod

On April 17, 2569, the Royal Gazette published a royal proclamation granting ecclesiastical title to Phra Thammawitchirpatiphan Suphithandhammathanit, designated as a special Buddhist orator with elevated monastic rank, stationed at Wat Prayurawongsa Wiharn in Bangkok, with authority to ordain six new monks.

Phra Thammawitchirpatiphan (Bunya Akompunyo) is a Buddhist scholar and master of dhamma discourse who trains monks, novices, and laypeople. Rather than teaching merely for memorization, he emphasizes critical thinking and communicates Buddhist teachings in ways accessible to all levels of society. Currently 76 years old with 56 years of monastic life, he serves as assistant abbot of Wat Prayurawongsa Wiharn, head of the Phasi Charoen district sangha council, and deputy director of the First Buddhist Missionary Network.

Born on January 1, 1950, in Don Tae, Muang District, Ratchaburi Province, he ordained at age 11 on May 18, 1961, at Wat Na Nong. He completed Buddhist scriptural studies, earning bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees in Dhamma. He transferred to Wat Prayurawongsa in 1983 and earned a doctorate in Buddhist Education specializing in dhamma instruction from Mahachulalongkorn Rajabhat University.

Wat Prayurawongsa is renowned as a center for dhamma discourse, having maintained distinctive teaching methods since the early Chakri period. The temple's motto emphasizes "fishing outside the house, connecting the ten directions, forging friendships far and wide, cultivating wisdom, and the sarika feeding the prey"—all aligned with authentic Buddhist principles.

Phra Thammawitchirpatiphan has consistently worked to disseminate Buddhism and inspire faith through lectures to students, officials, and professionals in both public and private sectors. He is particularly renowned for "witchir patiphan" (sparkling dhamma discourse)—spontaneous Dhamma dialogue requiring both wit and precise knowledge of the Tripitaka. He has authored numerous works including "Mantra of Happiness," "Meditation Methods," "Karma: Cause and Effect," "Dhamma Instruction Basics," and many others.

"All humans desire a happy life coupled with wisdom greater than a life filled with suffering—whether physical or mental—or cleverness without wisdom. Life with wisdom allows one to distinguish right from wrong, avoid mistakes, and overcome obstacles. Therefore, before acting, one must think carefully; if seeing something is wrong and harmful, find a better way. A good life is lived by those with good thoughts who do not allow themselves to sink into what is wrong."

No. 08 of Read at source → Next
Tourism

Bring Your Dogs and Cats to Pet Expo Thailand 2026 – Packed with Products, Promotions, and Amazing Activities

Pet Expo Thailand 2026 has opened at the Sirikit National Convention Centre, featuring over 850 booths from 300 companies and attracting 220,000 visitors through May 3. The event showcases innovative pet care products and services reflecting global trends in pet longevity and health management, with expected sales exceeding one billion baht. Highlights include competitive dog sports such as skateboarding, agility courses, high jump, and zigzag running competitions.

1 May Khaosod

Pet Expo Thailand 2026, Thailand's largest pet products and services exhibition, has officially launched under the theme "Guardians of the Heart." The event, running April 30 – May 3, 2026 across 24,000 square meters at the Sirikit National Convention Centre, features over 300 companies operating 850 booths, with an expected attendance of 220,000 visitors and sales exceeding one billion baht.

According to Surapol Utintu, Executive Chairman of the Sirikit National Convention Centre, the pet industry in Thailand is projected to reach 101 billion baht in value in 2026, with continuous growth expected. The event highlights the global trend of pet longevity – prioritizing pet health, precision nutrition, and genetic-specific formulations designed to extend pets' lifespans and quality of life, reflecting the growing phenomenon of pet humanization where pets are treated as family members.

The exhibition features compelling dog competitions including Skateboarding Dog showcasing advanced balance skills, Dog Agility courses testing speed and precision, High Jump events measuring jumping power, Zigzag Running challenges combining agility and obedience, and humorous eating competitions measuring appetite and speed. Royal Canin (Thailand) serves as the event's main sponsor.

No. 09 of Read at source → Next
Police

Football Player's Shooter Surrenders—Turns Out to Be Soldier, Claims Self-Defense; Police File 3 Charges, Reveal Trigger of Incident

A 20-year-old soldier shot and killed footballer Adinun, 29, after a match in Songkhla province on April 30, claiming self-defense during a dispute that escalated from the game. Police charged him with premeditated homicide and illegal fire

1 May Khaosod

Following the incident where Adinun, 29, a footballer from Moo 8, Tambon Thammuang, Amphoe Thepa, Songkhla province, was fatally shot after the "Thammuang Cup" football match held during the annual sports competition of Thammuang Municipality on April 30, the latest development occurred on May 1, 2569, when military officials from the Ingkhayuth Camp in Amphoe Nongchik, Pattani province brought 20-year-old conscript Sukhanya to surrender to Pol. Col. Piyawat Kwansri, the investigating officer at Huaypling Police Station.

Initially, investigators charged the suspect with premeditated homicide, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, and carrying firearms in civilian areas without authorization. The suspect claims he disposed of the firearm in a canal while fleeing. Pol. Col. Piyawat revealed that the suspect has confessed to the incident, claiming the shooting was solely in self-defense because the deceased's group was numerous. After interrogation, the suspect was transferred to military court at the 42nd Army Region Command at Camp Senanarong, Hadyai District, Songkhla.

At the victim's home in Nongsamai, Moo 8, Tambon Thammuang, relatives and friends continued paying respects amid mourning, with the family preparing to bury the body at the village cemetery. The victim's father stated his son had been a footballer for many years, but never expected this tragic outcome. He requested police prosecute the perpetrator severely.

A relative who witnessed the incident explained that tensions arose during the football match when the suspect's team collided with the victim's team. After the 0-0 match ended, both teams exchanged apologies and dispersed. Later, while watching the next match, the suspect approached the victim's nephew asking why he had fouled him, leading to a physical altercation. When the victim intervened to help his nephew, the suspect drew a firearm and shot immediately, striking the victim's right chest, left armpit, and right ankle.

No. 10 of Read at source → Next
National

Rakchanok Affirms Social Security Still Worthwhile as Ultimate Safety Net; Retirement Benefits Sustain Final Years

Social security retirement pensions of 3,500-5,000 baht monthly justify the 700-800 baht contributions over 25 years, according to a People's Party lawmaker defending the system as Thailand's ultimate safety net for workers.

1 May Khaosod

At Parliament's public plaza on May 1, 2025, Rakchanok Srinnok, a People's Party list member, delivered remarks defending social security as the most cost-effective insurance scheme despite rigorous scrutiny from both formal and informal sector contributions. She emphasized that while medical and dental benefits pale compared to the Gold Card system, the social security program offers retirement pensions of approximately 3,500-5,000 baht monthly—making contributions of 700-800 baht monthly over 25 years exceptionally worthwhile. Srinnok described the pension as the ultimate safety net for workers unable to continue employment, providing essential support during hardship. Beyond retirement benefits, the system provides maternity allowances and unemployment compensation to cushion difficult periods. Though acknowledging criticisms, the People's Party assured contributors that faith in the social security fund remains justified, as planned reforms will ultimately improve all aspects of the system.

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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