Koh Lanta Community News — Events & Island Life
Tuned Car Association Sparks Go-Kart Protest Over Engine Sleeve
The Tuned Car Association posted images comparing IAME engine sleeves from 2014 and 2026, sparking a protest in a go-kart race involving the children of Thai celebrities. A mechanic from the association revealed that one team used an outdated 2014 sleeve while the other 19 teams used the 2026 version, prompting the dispute. The controversy intensified on social media after the children of stars Chidchaya and Nott Wisarut, and Hi-So Po Tanuphat's son, competed in the race.
Crowds Flock to Chonburi Statue Seeking Lottery Luck
Hundreds of visitors went to the giant Thao Wessuwan statue in Chonburi to pray for lottery numbers, hoping to repeat past successes. A 34‑year‑old woman received the number 644 from incense sticks, aiming to become the 21st top‑prize winner. The statue, the tallest in Thailand at 15.99 metres, draws crowds especially on public holidays.
Foundation Donates Cakes, Funds to Flood Victims in Ratchaburi
The Pure Heart Foundation and Bai Li Enterprise delivered over 2,000 cakes and 20,000 baht in aid to flood‑affected residents of Pak Tho district in Ratchaburi Province, marking King Bhumibol Memorial Day. The donation was coordinated with local police to ensure distribution to those hit by flash floods in five sub‑districts. Officials say floodwaters remain high across seven districts, and relief efforts continue.
Actress Nammphung Natrika Donates All Funeral Funds to Charity
Actress Nammphung Natrika said all money donated at her father’s funeral will go to charitable projects without any deductions. She thanked everyone who contributed and wished the merit would bring happiness, health and good fortune to them. Her father, Vichit Thammapreedanand, passed away at the age of 83.
Famous Curry Shop Offers Free Meals for King Bhumibol Anniversary
The owner of a famous curry rice shop in Surat Thani offered free meals to the public on October 13 to honor the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Seventy‑year‑old Itsarak Sakdapithak, who has run the shop for over 40 years, said the act is a merit‑making tribute he has performed for six years straight. The menu featured the shop’s usual selection of more than 30 dishes, available from morning until 3 p.m. or until the food ran out.
Veteran Producer Nog Jariya Supports Storm Amid Go-Kart Controversy
Veteran producer Nog Jariya sent a heartfelt message of support to Storm, the son of actress Chompoo Araya, amid a controversy over his go-kart race result. She praised children’s innocence and asked for a hug for the boy, while Chompoo responded with a praying hands emoji. The exchange is part of a broader wave of encouragement from fans and entertainment figures for the youngster.
Go-kart Racing Controversy Prompts Call for Kids' Final Showdown
Ya Motor Sport’s Chanya livestreamed to apologize for a controversial social media post that called a young go‑kart racer a 'special child,' saying the remark was not aimed at any specific driver. He explained that a 2014 cylinder head had been illegally fitted to a kart in a One‑Make race, arguing that even if it did not affect power, it still counts as a modification. Chanya urged officials to be more careful, asked adults not to use kids for commercial gain, and suggested letting the children settle the dispute on the final track.
MP Criticizes Go-Kart Race Over Unequal Engines, Calls for Fairness
MP Pa Lik criticized a go‑kart race after allegations that the winning kart used a different engine, saying any variance breaches the rules regardless of whose child is driving. The dispute arose when Nong Phayu, son of celebrities Chompoo and Not, took first place, prompting the opposing team to protest and request an engine inspection. Pa Lik called for a fair investigation, stressing that the competition must be equal and warning that unresolved controversies could damage the sport.
Education Minister Gives 7 Days to Resolve School-Football Club Dispute
Assistant Education Minister Akkanan KanKitthinan mediated a three‑hour meeting between Phutthirangsipibul School and the Watermelon United football club, giving both sides seven days to draft a new memorandum of understanding and prioritize children’s welfare. The dispute arose after the school terminated its cooperation agreement with the club, citing student tardiness, attitude problems and the principal’s harsh remarks, which led to complaints and a temporary transfer of the principal. Parents, teachers and club representatives now demand the principal’s removal and a resolution that lets students pursue both academics and football without conflict.
Former Boxing Champion Amnart Returns to Si Racha After Treatment
Former world boxing champion Amnart Ruenereng is returning to his hometown of Si Racha after medical treatment and a stint as a boxing trainer under mentor Johnny Mue-Rab. He says his body aches from teaching and he wants a check‑up, stressing there are no hard feelings. Johnny has pledged to always welcome him back, noting he and his wife have done their best to support him.
Husband Defends Youth Kart Win Blames Critics For Cheating Accusations
At Ronchai defended youth kart racer Nong Phayu’s victory, insisting it was due to driving skill, not a more powerful engine, and denounced critics who accused the team of cheating for not reading the rules fully. The dispute arose after a protest over Phayu’s engine specifications and supercharger sparked online debate in Thailand’s youth karting community. At urged accusers to apologize, stressed the regulations showed no violation, and warned against sore‑loser behavior with the hashtag #LoserThenBlames.
Thai Buddhist Amulets Showcase Revered Monks' Historical Legacy
The article explores a series of historically significant Thai Buddhist amulets linked to revered monks such as Luang Pho Cha, Luang Pho Lee, Luang Pho Dit, Luang Pho Chom, and Luang Pho Phit. It describes the designs, symbolism, and minting details of each commemorative coin, noting the prevalence of counterfeits for some issues. The piece serves as a cultural overview of these sacred objects and their ongoing popularity among collectors and devotees.