Lanta & News
No. 01 · ENDLESS
National

Tourism strategy targets high-spending visitors

BANGKOK: The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has offered Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul a plan to drive high-value tourism over a four-year term.

Tourism strategy targets high-spending visitors
18 May The Phuket News

BANGKOK: The Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT) has offered Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul a plan to drive high-value tourism over a four-year term.

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Police

Police to Question Temple Monks About Gunshot Attack on Abbot Inside Monastery Cell with 16 Bullet Wounds

Police are investigating a shooting that left a Buddhist abbot with 16 bullet wounds inside his monastery cell in Kamphaeng Phet Province on May 18, and have summoned all monks for questioning as they search for suspects and possible motive

Police to Question Temple Monks About Gunshot Attack on Abbot Inside Monastery Cell with 16 Bullet Wounds
18 May Khaosod

Police investigators from Muang Kamphaeng Phet Station have summoned all monks from Wat Krajom Thong to the police station for detailed questioning in connection with the shooting attack on Abbot Phra Athikan Bunlersi Akpunyyo, 64, of Wat Krajom Thong in Mueang District, Kamphaeng Phet Province on May 18, 2025. The abbot was struck by multiple gunshots of unknown caliber while inside his cell, suffering serious injuries to his right ear, neck, shoulder, and hip. He was rushed to the hospital by fellow monks and villagers.

Police are focusing their investigation on finding clues about the shooter, who may still be hiding or frequenting the temple. They are also examining internal disputes or grievances that could have motivated the attack and reviewing CCTV footage from surrounding areas. Investigators are particularly puzzled by the fact that the abbot's pitbull guard dog did not bark during the incident.

Chalor, 60, the caretaker who attends to the abbot daily, expressed shock upon learning of the attack. He noted that the abbot is well-liked by both monks and villagers, though he does lend money to some. Chalor mentioned that while the temple's security camera system once functioned, the memory card has been expired for a long time. Regarding the pitbull, Chalor explained that the dog remains calm and quiet when with the abbot but becomes aggressive and barks when separated from him.

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Tourism

Tourism wrestles with wars impact

BANGKOK: On Feb 28, when the US-Israeli war with Iran began, Thailands tourism industry was looking forward to reaping the benefits of the final month of the high season.

Tourism wrestles with wars impact
18 May The Phuket News

BANGKOK: On Feb 28, when the US-Israeli war with Iran began, Thailands tourism industry was looking forward to reaping the benefits of the final month of the high season.

No. 03 of Read at source → Next
Community

Winwakeen Sparks Thought-Provoking Debate with Bold Statement: 'We Are the Aliens'

Young actor and musician Winwakeen Simawaara sparked online debate with a cryptic post stating "We are the aliens," which fans interpret as a metaphor for creative nonconformists rather than literal extraterrestrials.

Winwakeen Sparks Thought-Provoking Debate with Bold Statement: 'We Are the Aliens'
18 May Khaosod

Young actor and artist Winwakeen Simawaara, known for his emotionally resonant music, has made waves on social media following the buzz around a film discussing extraterrestrial life. He posted images and a thought-provoking caption stating: 'We are the aliens.'

Following the post's release, fans have interpreted it in various ways—some believing it hints at his upcoming third single release, while others dig deeper into its meaning. Many interpret 'aliens' not as literal extraterrestrial beings, but as a metaphor for 'creative thinkers, those who dare to think differently, and people who refuse to conform to society's conventional frameworks.' These individuals are often viewed as outsiders or oddities by mainstream society, much like extraterrestrial life.

Netizens have praised the post, with comments like 'Brilliant, P'Win, gave me chills' and 'If thinking differently makes us aliens, I'm proud to be one of them.'

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National

PM Anutin Marks Thailand-UK 170th Diplomatic Anniversary

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul attended a reception celebrating 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom, as well as the 80th anniversary of the British Chamber of...

18 May Thailand.go.th Issues

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul attended a reception celebrating 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom, as well as the 80th anniversary of the British Chamber of...

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National

GPSC Taps Getz to Develop 98-Megawatt IRPC-CP Solar Farm

GPSC's subsidiary Getz Energy will build a 98-megawatt solar farm in Songkhla province for IRPC Clean Power, with operations starting in Q3 2028.

GPSC Taps Getz to Develop 98-Megawatt IRPC-CP Solar Farm
18 May Khaosod

GPSC has selected its subsidiary Getz Energy to serve as the engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) contractor for an IRPC-CP solar farm project with a capacity of 98 megawatts, with commercial operations expected to begin in Q3 2028. This will expand the company's installed capacity portfolio to over 290 megawatts.

Pirappol Ampaiwit, managing director of Getz Energy Limited—a subsidiary of global power company GPSC (which is 100% owned by PTT Group)—announced that the company has been selected as the EPC contractor for the solar farm project of IRPC Clean Power Limited (IRPC-CP), a small independent power producer (SPP). The project spans over 628 rai and is located in Songkhla province with a capacity of 98 megawatts, scheduled for commercial operation in Q3 2028.

The project demonstrates the company's capability as a comprehensive clean energy solution provider with expert teams. It represents another significant step in the company's continuous expansion of energy business operations. In 2026, the company aims to advance its EPC business in both solar energy and cold energy sectors, with plans to add over 100 megawatts of installed capacity. The company currently has 290 megawatts installed domestically.

For its cold energy business operated through affiliated companies, the company is expected to expand production capacity to nearly 28,000 tons of refrigeration.

With experience and expertise in comprehensive clean energy solutions both within and outside industrial zones, the company has developed various solar energy projects including rooftop systems, carport installations, floating solar systems, and ground-mounted systems. This demonstrates the company's engineering capability, international safety standards, and readiness as a clean energy partner that meets customer needs across all sectors.

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National

Bangkok Prepares Safety Measures for Songkran 2026

Bangkok's governor has unveiled comprehensive safety protocols for Songkran 2026, prioritizing public health measures as the city prepares for the annual festival.

18 May Thailand.go.th Issues

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt (ชัชชาติ สิทธิพันธุ์) has announced safety and logistical plans for the 2026 Songkran Festival, focusing on public health due t...

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National

TAT Shifts Strategy Toward Domestic and Short-Haul Markets Amid Fuel Concerns

Thailand's Tourism Authority is redirecting marketing efforts toward domestic and regional travelers instead of long-haul international visitors, citing rising fuel costs and energy concerns.

18 May Thailand.go.th Issues

The Tourism Authority of Thailand, led by Governor Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, (ฐาปนีย์ เกียรติไพบูลย์) is shifting strategy amid energy crisis and slowdown in...

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Weather

5.3-Magnitude Earthquake in Myanmar Felt in Bangkok High-Rises

A 5.3-magnitude earthquake centered near Myanmar's southern coast was felt across Bangkok's high-rises on May 18, though Thailand's Earthquake Monitoring Center reported no damage or impact to the country. The tremors were amplified by Bang

5.3-Magnitude Earthquake in Myanmar Felt in Bangkok High-Rises
18 May Khaosod

Thailand's Earthquake Monitoring Center reported a 5.3-magnitude earthquake near Myanmar's southern coast at 9:05 AM on May 18, 2569 (Thai time), with its epicenter 10 kilometers deep and approximately 247 kilometers southwest of Mae Sot District in Tak Province. The agency stated the earthquake poses no impact to Thailand but will provide updates if needed.

Residents across Bangkok, particularly in high-rise buildings in areas such as Don Muang, Phaya Thai, Bang Rak, Huai Khwang, Pathum Wan, Khlong Toei, and Chatuchak districts, reported feeling the tremors via the Earthquake TMD Facebook page. Notable reports included:

- Strong shaking on the 19th floor of James Tower - Mild tremors felt on the 5th floor near Ramkhamhaeng-Lam Sali intersection - Perceptible shaking on the 6th floor in Chiang Mai - Shaking detected on the 10th floor in Asoke - Strong tremors at Phra Pradaeng, prompting evacuation from a building near Phra Chom Klao

Bangkok and its surrounding areas experienced noticeable vibrations, especially in high-rise buildings, with structures swaying and ceiling lights swinging. Officials at the Anti-Money Laundering Office (AMLO) building clearly felt the earthquake and promptly evacuated personnel as a safety precaution while inspecting the building's structure and internal systems.

Although the earthquake's epicenter was distant from Thailand, Bangkok's soft clay geological composition amplified the tremors, allowing residents across multiple areas to perceive the shaking.

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National

Chadchart Opens Up About Resignation, Works Until 5 PM Today; Hints at Future Focus on Urban Development

Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphand resigned effective 5 PM today to run for reelection, emphasizing productivity and technology to boost the city's global competitiveness. He said his team will maintain operations during the transition a

Chadchart Opens Up About Resignation, Works Until 5 PM Today; Hints at Future Focus on Urban Development
18 May Khaosod

On May 18, 2569 at Wat Maha Rat Noi School in Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittiphand gave an interview following his announcement of resignation to run for a second term as governor, effective at 5 PM today. He explained that he submitted his resignation letter this morning, with immediate effect at 5 PM, as he needs to travel abroad tonight for his son Saenpit Sittiphand's graduation ceremony. This allows him to avoid creating administrative gaps and eliminate the need for an acting governor. He confirmed his intention to run for Bangkok Governor in the next election.

For this election, he will emphasize a productivity policy because Bangkok must now compete with cities worldwide. He plans to maximize output while minimizing resource use and enhance city efficiency through technology, comprising three elements: happiness, opportunity, and hope. He noted that in recent years, residents have become happier with improved quality of life. Going forward, appropriate technology must be used to strengthen Bangkok's position as an economic center competing with global cities.

When asked about concerns during the interim period without a permanent governor, Chadchart said there would be no problems as the administrative work will continue through his team and staff. He noted this is normal in a democratic system where there is such a transition period for citizens to choose new leaders. His team has performed well, and he is confident they will continue to do so.

"I have to keep working because they pay me until the very last second. There are many concerns," Chadchart said.

He mentioned that this morning he will visit Don Mueang district, the area hit hardest by flooding since his early tenure, where road construction is now nearly complete. He also expressed concern about several projects, particularly a wastewater treatment pond on the Thonburi side that is progressing slowly. He asked the Permanent Secretary of Bangkok to oversee these matters and brief the incoming administration.

His campaign team will consist of both existing and new members. He thanked his team and civil servants for their excellent work over the past nearly four years.

When asked if he still gives himself a 5 out of 10 score, Chadchart said he maintains that rating because self-assessment is impossible. However, he gave his team an 8 out of 10 and prefers others to judge his performance.

What pleased him most over four years was the responsive service format changes for residents. Systems like Traffy Fondue made officials recognize the importance of the public and significantly improved efficiency. Previously, resolving citizen issues took approximately two months, but over these four years it has averaged just 1.9 days.

When citizens request action, it gets done faster. People feel that power has been decentralized more and trust in the administration has grown. When he first took office, residents distrusted Bangkok, which had been plagued by corruption and backroom dealings. Now that has changed through structural transformation that brings government closer to people without changing laws, using appropriate technology with minimal investment but maximum returns. He pledged to become more proactive in identifying problems rather than just waiting for citizen reports.

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National

Music News – Indie Rock Band AYLA's Launches New Journey with Single 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us'

Indie rock band AYLA debuts with melancholic single "From Now On, There Won't Be Us," a folk-influenced acoustic track exploring themes of separation and moving forward written by vocalist Per during a life transition.

Music News – Indie Rock Band AYLA's Launches New Journey with Single 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us'
18 May Khaosod

BRIDGE record label, under the Krungnuea Group umbrella, has unveiled its debut artist AYLA's (Ai-Las), an indie rock band composed of members: 'Per' Kampanart Seemuangphan (vocals), 'Ne' Veeravut Changsarn (guitar), 'Off' Komkrit Bunyueng (guitar), 'Oy' Akkhom Phuenraksa (bass), and 'Knight' Boriwan Sribotha (drums). The band has released their debut single 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us [Farewell],' a slow acoustic piece infused with melancholic atmosphere that permeates every lyric and melody. Written by vocalist Per during a transitional period of his life, the song explores a genre the band hasn't heavily pursued before—folk-influenced slow music. The lyrics tell the story of two people forced to part ways after exhausting all efforts to stay together. Using a journey metaphor, the song conveys that when two people have traveled life together but haven't reached their destination, they must accept goodbye and pursue their separate dreams, with the word 'we' no longer existing between them. The music video for 'From Now On, There Won't Be Us [Farewell]' is now available at https://youtu.be/zLy41Rucsbg

No. 11 of Read at source → Next
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