National

BOI Pleased with TikTok Leading Charge to Establish Thailand as Regional Investment Hub Worth Over 950 Billion Baht

TikTok's 842 billion baht data center investment in Bangkok, Samut Prakan, and Chachoengsao led six major BOI-approved projects worth 958 billion baht, positioning Thailand as a regional investment and digital hub. The board also approved n

6 May Khaosod

The BOI board approved six major investment projects totaling 958.168 billion baht. BOI Secretary General Narudom Therdsteerasukdi announced that on May 6, 2025, the board chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul approved these six large-scale projects valued at 958.168 billion baht.

Nine additional important investment projects were selected to join the Thailand FastPass system, supplementing the initial batch of 16 projects. The board also endorsed an accelerated electricity production and distribution plan to support these investments, prioritizing clean energy mechanisms alongside comprehensive electrical infrastructure upgrades to boost investor confidence and meet modern investment needs focused on increased clean energy utilization.

The six major projects representing over 950 billion baht in investment include:

– Data Center and Data Hosting Operations: Three projects totaling 913.838 billion baht comprising: 1. TikTok System (Thailand) Co., Ltd. - 842.35 billion baht investment located in Bangkok, Samut Prakan, and Chachoengsao, expanding server installations to establish Thailand as a strategic data storage and processing hub for regional users. The company will develop Digital Literacy and e-Commerce curricula to create new business opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs and enhance the nation's digital workforce capabilities. 2. Skyline Data Center and Cloud Services Limited (DAMAC Group affiliate) from UAE - 46.869 billion baht investment in Chachoengsao, supporting 200 megawatts of IT load capacity. 3. Bridge Data Center IIO (Thailand) Limited - 24.619 billion baht investment in Chon Buri, accommodating 134 megawatts of IT load.

– Recycled Plastic Pellet Manufacturing: PureCycle (Thailand) Limited - 8.18 billion baht, the sole authorized producer of recycled plastic pellets for Procter & Gamble, establishing Thailand as its primary production base for the Asian market with a facility in Rayong.

– Wind Power Generation: Dan Khun Tot Wind One Limited - 4.728 billion baht for an 89.7 megawatt facility in Nakhon Ratchasima.

– Potassium Chloride Manufacturing: Asian Potash Chaiyabhumi Public Company - 31.422 billion baht in Chaiyaphum producing potassium chloride as a key ingredient for potassium fertilizer manufacturing.

Regarding Thailand FastPass Batch 2: The meeting approved nine additional important investment projects for the Thailand FastPass expedited investment system worth 52.104 billion baht combined, continuing from the first batch of 16 projects. This brings the total of projects in the Thailand FastPass system to 25 projects with combined investment of 223.216 billion baht. All projects will receive expedited approval processing from relevant agencies including BOI, the Industrial Works Department, the Industrial Estates Authority of Thailand, the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning, the Customs Department, and others.

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Police

Police Raid Gambling Den at Temple Funeral, Arrest 2 Suspects, Seize 60,000 Baht

Police arrested two suspects and seized 60,000 baht during a raid on an illegal gambling operation at a temple funeral in Chumphon's Pa To District on May 5.

6 May Khaosod

Police raid gambling den at temple funeral service in Chumphon, arresting 2 suspects and seizing 60,000 baht. On May 6, 2569, authorities reported that at 10 p.m. on May 5, officers from the Provincial Police Region 8 Investigation Division and Pa To Police Station in Chumphon conducted a surprise inspection of illegal gambling activities occurring during a funeral rite at a temple in Pa To District.

Upon arrival, officers discovered a large group of gamblers engaged in wagering. When officials identified themselves to make arrests, the suspects panicked and fled into the darkness in different directions, leaving chairs and belongings scattered throughout the funeral area.

Police initially detained two male suspects and seized approximately 60,000 baht in cash. Additional evidence included seven pieces of gambling equipment—dice, game boards, trays, and money baskets. The suspects and evidence were transferred to investigators for prosecution under the Gambling Prevention Act according to legal procedures.

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National

Climate Change Department Partners with PTT to Advance Research and Innovation in Climate Technology

Thailand's Climate Change Department and PTT announced a partnership to advance climate technology research and innovation, focusing on carbon capture, hydrogen development, and net-zero emissions strategies. The collaboration will combine

6 May Khaosod

On May 6, the Department of Climate Change and Environment (DCCE), represented by Director-General Dr. Pirun Saiyasitthipanich, Deputy Director-General Pawit Kesavong, and Deputy Director-General Gomesh Boothsorn, met with PTT Public Company Limited, led by Executive Vice President for Corporate Sustainability Rathakorn Kampanatkanaiyakorn, to hold the first 2025 session of the working group on research, innovation, and development of climate change technology support mechanisms.

The meeting was conducted under a memorandum of understanding between the DCCE and PTT aimed at demonstrating the joint commitment of both agencies to exchange information and knowledge, promote research and innovation collaboration, and develop mechanisms supporting climate change-related technologies, including carbon dioxide capture and storage (CCS/CCUS), hydrogen technology, and other related technologies. The effort also focuses on developing related policies, mechanisms, and legal frameworks to provide a clear foundation for driving the country's greenhouse gas emissions reduction, ultimately achieving net zero emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon society.

During the meeting, the working group secretariat reported progress and outcomes from 2024 collaboration, including policy discussions on elevating legal frameworks for CCS/CCUS technology application to support Thailand's NDC 3.0, and studying the carbon dioxide impact on Thailand's ecosystems. The group also discussed linking heat index measurement tools with digital platforms.

For 2025, the working group established a framework where PTT will provide technical expertise, knowledge, and research to support CCS/CCUS technology application in Thailand, while the DCCE will drive policy implementation. Both agencies plan to exchange knowledge on climate technology and establish effective public-private cooperation to achieve tangible results.

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Breaking

9-Month-Old Infant Rescued After Neighbors Report Mother's Drug Dependency Concerns; Child Now Receiving Care

A 9-month-old infant was rescued in Sisaket Province after neighbors reported concerns about the mother's drug use; the woman tested positive and was referred to rehabilitation while the child was placed under welfare protection.

6 May Khaosod

On May 6, 2025, Kunakorn Sutthimok, District Chief of Phayuha District in Sisaket Province, ordered Pornchai Pokpong, Deputy Chief of Security, along with Sub-Lieutenant Prasert Wantong and officials from Phayuha Police Station, volunteers from the Territorial Defense Unit, and relevant agencies to inspect a residence in Village 8, Tamtai Subdistrict following complaints from residents about a woman suspected of drug involvement caring for a 9-month-old infant, raising safety concerns.

Upon arrival, officials observed the homeowner displaying suspicious behavior and incoherence, with a 9-month-old baby present in the home. A urine test of the woman came back positive for drug substances. Officers conducting a thorough search under legal authority found no contraband items. The woman was subsequently transferred to Phayuha Hospital to undergo drug treatment rehabilitation according to Ministry of Public Health protocols, with continuous assessment and treatment planning.

District Chief Kunakorn explained that although no drugs were found at the scene, this was treated as a sensitive situation due to the child's involvement. Rather than pursuing immediate legal action, authorities prioritized assistance by enrolling the woman in treatment to give her an opportunity to recover and rebuild her life. Regarding the 9-month-old, officials coordinated with the village headman and child welfare agencies from Sisaket Province's shelter and family services to immediately implement child protection measures.

Welfare officials will conduct a thorough assessment of family readiness, living environment, and potential risks before determining appropriate support measures, which may include temporary caregiver arrangements or close monitoring. District Chief Kunakorn emphasized that this approach balances assistance with law enforcement, prioritizing child safety and welfare above all else. "Drug users are patients; treatment gives them a chance to return to normal life, while simultaneously protecting the child from ongoing risk."

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National

ERGO Insurance Adjusts 2025 Strategy With Sustainability Focus, Balances Portfolio and Profitability Amid Economic Volatility; Targets Top 3 Travel Insurance Position Within Three Years

ERGO Insurance is prioritizing sustainability and profitability over rapid growth in 2025, launching travel insurance with Zurich Cover-More and aiming for a top-3 market position within three years amid global economic uncertainties.

6 May Khaosod

ERGO Insurance is implementing a business stability strategy amid global economic risks, prioritizing profitability and balanced portfolio management rather than aggressive growth. In partnership with Zurich Cover-More, the company is launching "ERGO Travel Guard" travel insurance and aims to rank in the top 3 travel insurance providers within three years, while expanding supplementary health insurance for SMEs.

Adisak Thetaratworngse, President and CEO of ERGO Insurance (Thailand) Public Company Limited, a subsidiary of ERGO Group and Munich Re, revealed the company's business direction for 2025. Rather than pursuing rapid expansion, the company will prioritize building "sustainability" through balanced portfolio management, maintaining profitability levels, and controlling financial ratios and organizational stability. This approach reflects external uncertainties, particularly global economic conditions, international conflicts, and varying impacts across business segments that have increased costs, transaction volumes, and asset values subject to high volatility.

"Some may think wars have little impact, but certain business groups face clear consequences in both costs and transaction volumes," Adisak stated, adding that the company must work closely with customers and partners to ensure insurance products address changing risks effectively.

Regarding health insurance, the company currently has no plans to enter the OPD or comprehensive health insurance market in the short term due to medical inflation risks and various uncertainties.

On financial targets, the company will prioritize maintaining profit levels and stability over growth acceleration, despite recent impacts from natural disasters such as flooding and earthquakes that increased claims.

As part of its growth strategy, ERGO recently announced a significant partnership with Zurich Cover-More, a leading travel assistance service provider within Zurich Insurance Group, to launch "ERGO Travel Guard" international travel insurance. The product covers accidents and health issues, including delayed or cancelled flights, starting at 186 baht. Key features include worldwide hospital admissions without advance payment and coverage for travelers aged 0-80.

"Currently, Thai travel insurance penetration rates remain low compared to international standards, despite travel carrying multifaceted risks from unfamiliar locations, language, food, and changing weather. This collaboration isn't just a product launch but delivers world-class protection standards designed specifically for Thai travelers to create worry-free travel experiences at all destinations."

ERGO Travel Guard consolidates traveler risks into 29 coverage categories across four main groups:

1. Life and Health: Covers inpatient and outpatient medical treatment without advance payment upon admission, including emergency evacuation. 2. Travel Inconvenience: Covers flight delays, denied boarding (overbooking), trip cancellations, and new coverage for pet care costs if owners return to Thailand late due to unforeseen circumstances. 3. Assets: Protects against damage or loss of luggage, passport, cash, and related items.

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National

True Corporation Showcases AI and Big Data Capabilities with Launch of Smart Network Operations Center (BNIC) to Support Thailand's Next-Generation Power Grid

True Corporation opened its Business and Network Intelligence Center to MEA executives, demonstrating AI and Big Data capabilities for managing Thailand's next-generation smart electricity grid more efficiently and reliably.

6 May Khaosod

Bangkok, May 6, 2025: True Corporation, represented by Kanoksakdi Nimnavalratana, head of Government Affairs and Public Utilities, and Natthapop Sarakhet, head of the Smart Network Operations Center, welcomed executives from the Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA) led by Rachendr Anwech, deputy governor of digital technology and communications systems, for a visit and study of the Business and Network Intelligence Center (BNIC). The delegation came to exchange knowledge on developing and managing large-scale national network infrastructure while implementing AI technology and Big Data applications, including data management systems, to upgrade MEA's smart electricity grid management to the highest levels of stability and accuracy. This supports growing demands in the digital era. The executives received an in-depth briefing on BNIC's advanced capabilities in real-time monitoring of network infrastructure covering the entire country, utilizing AI technology to analyze and detect anomalies from large databases in order to provide timely and precise alerts and solution recommendations. This enables rapid and efficient problem management and resolution. MEA will leverage this knowledge to improve power system efficiency, strengthen energy security, and enhance the quality of life for Thai people, while expanding cooperation between both organizations in energy management.

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Police

Suspect Arrested for Brutal Taxi Driver Murder, Body Dumped in Rice Field; Motive Revealed

A 65-year-old taxi driver was murdered over a 400-baht phone repair dispute; police arrested the suspect in Pathum Thani after he lured the victim to a remote area and fatally attacked him.

6 May Khaosod

Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the brutal murder of Prasayad, a 65-year-old taxi driver whose body was found dumped in a rice field off Highway 9 in Bang Sai district, Ayutthaya province. The victim sustained severe head injuries, and his taxi was left parked with the door open at the scene. On May 6, 2025, investigators apprehended the suspect, Narathorn (surname withheld), in a rented room in Pathum Thani province near the victim's residence. During initial questioning, the suspect confessed that the conflict originated from a dispute over a mobile phone repair. The victim had asked the suspect to repair his phone and promised 400 baht in payment. When the victim later demanded the phone back, the suspect became dissatisfied and angry, ultimately planning to lure the victim to a remote location where he fatally attacked him. After the incident, the suspect went into hiding in the surrounding area until police tracked and arrested him. Authorities are now conducting detailed interrogation, gathering additional evidence, and expanding the investigation to establish all facts of the case.

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National

Mystery Roundabout in the Middle of a Hungarian Field: Completed But With No Connecting Roads

A completed roundabout in Hungary sits mysteriously isolated in a field with no connecting roads, becoming a symbol of Europe's abandoned infrastructure projects. The roundabout was funded by the European Union as part of a planned logistics center and rail corridor project announced in 2021, but the main project has stalled with no construction timeline. Officials now estimate the roundabout may remain unused for several more years, and it's unclear if it will ever fulfill its intended purpose.

6 May Khaosod

A puzzling roundabout mysteriously sits in the middle of a Hungarian field between the towns of Szalagerszeg and Szalaszentivån, having become the subject of widespread discussion. This "field roundabout" appears to have emerged from some incomplete project and stands isolated, seemingly forgotten mid-construction.

When viewed from above, the roundabout looks extraordinarily strange because no roads or structures connect to it at all. The sight is reminiscent of someone simply "placing" a roundabout in the middle of a field and leaving it there without purpose.

However, this oddity didn't result from random error but rather from a major infrastructure development plan announced in 2021 involving the construction of a logistics center and container port by a major private company to facilitate cargo transportation across Central Europe.

The project's clear strategic goal is to enable rail freight from the Adriatic Sea to pass through Hungary toward countries like Slovakia, the Czech Republic, and Poland more quickly, bypassing Budapest as a central hub.

In February 2021, the Hungarian government formally announced the logistics center plan and urged local municipalities to apply for European Union funding to construct access roads and the roundabout as connecting infrastructure to the future project.

By 2023, the roundabout was completed with approximately 1.25 million euros (roughly 47 million baht) in EU support funding. However, the problem is that "what the roundabout should connect to"—the logistics center—has yet to begin construction at all.

Years have passed with little change and no concrete progress on the main project, leaving the roundabout to stand isolated, like a missing puzzle piece from the bigger picture.

Although plans call for a new railway line to eventually connect it and make the project functional, that railway project remains in the procurement phase with no clear timeline for construction start.

According to projections, if everything proceeds as planned, contractors would need more than two years for construction, and the railway might not become operational until 2029 at the earliest—meaning this field roundabout may have to "wait" for many more years.

Given all the delays and uncertainty, no one can say whether this roundabout will ever serve its intended purpose or simply remain as a curiosity known as Europe's "infrastructure project that looks like it's going somewhere but hasn't gotten anywhere yet."

No. 08 of ∞ Read at source → Next

National

Election Commission Names New Poll Observers for Bangkok Governor, Pattaya City Council, and Mayor Elections

The Election Commission has announced 13 new election observers for Bangkok and Chachoengsao province to oversee upcoming elections for Bangkok Metropolitan Council, Bangkok governor, Pattaya City Council, and Pattaya mayor. The observers, selected through a drawing process, will serve a 38-day term beginning May 23, 2569, with responsibilities including monitoring election procedures and investigating any violations of election laws.

6 May Khaosod

On May 6, 2569, the Election Commission office conducted a drawing to appoint election observers for Bangkok and Chachoengsao province. Eight election observers were selected for Bangkok to oversee elections for Bangkok Metropolitan Council (BMA) members and Bangkok governor: Pol. Lt. Col. Pichai Chiamaroj, Pongtep Thirapunth, Pol. Col. Charat Wadkhian, Prasop Chumsri, Pol. Maj. Suchart Surasatchya, Thierapong Chantachat, Pol. Air Vice-Marshal Niwat Boonpradis, and Charan Virassaman. Five observers were selected for Chachoengsao province to oversee Pattaya City Council and mayoral elections: Pol. Maj. Prasong Sonchan, Surachat Manit, Thawon Koulsiri, Chaiwarn Niyom, and Piravat Wangrutkul. The EC office will submit these names for formal appointment. The observers will begin duties on May 23, 2569, and conclude on June 29, 2569, for a total of 38 days. Their responsibilities include monitoring election officials' compliance with procedures, investigating election law violations and political party misconduct, accessing polling stations and vote-counting areas, and performing other duties as assigned by the EC.

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Tourism

Off Sukhumvit, Burapa offers a hidden taste of Eastern Thailand

Burapa, a hidden Eastern Thai restaurant located off Sukhumvit near Nana station, offers a distinctive culinary experience that balances the flavors of Thailand's various regions. The restaurant impresses with its carefully crafted cocktails, attentive service, and well-executed new lunch menu in an intimate, welcoming atmosphere. This gem stands out among typical tourist-oriented establishments for its commitment to quality in every detail, from housemade syrups to thoughtfully designed snack pairings.

6 May Khaosod

It is a rare rainy day in Bangkok's dry season. The wet smell of petrichor rises off the asphalt as I stride down an alley off Sukhumvit from Nana station. In that moment, it feels like a place locals would rarely desire to patron.

Today is different. I am here to visit an esteemed Eastern Thai restaurant that I have read much about, but have yet to try: Burapa. I have come to sample its new lunch menu at the invitation of a friend.

'My Journey Has Just Begun' above the coordinates of Ack's hometown are subtly printed into the concrete below the sign.

Unlike many of the businesses along this alley which seem to cater more to one-time tourists than repeat visitors, Burapa stands out as an inspired icon amid a slurry of forgettable fluff. The restaurant, like much of Eastern Thai cuisine, is tucked away in an area that I would not normally visit without good reason. Located on the corner of Soi 11 in the heart of Bangkok, it could easily be missed amongst the hustle and bustle—but today I approach with anticipation.

A restaurant greets you before you walk in the door. This time it is not staff, but a friend that waves me in. As soon as I enter, I feel the warmth of Burapa. A reprieve from a rainy day, the foyer feels lived-in, and the naturally bright lunchroom immediately shines. Before I sit down it already feels like an excellent place for lunch.

The bottom floor of Burapa offers a sharp bright mood for lunchtime diners.

Like most visitors to Thailand, I do not know what to expect from Eastern Thai cuisine, but I am curious. I have tasted the strong fermented flavours of the northeast, experienced the sugar-laden dishes of Bangkok, and been overwhelmed by the intense spices of the south. Eastern Thai, as I am told, balances in-between all of those, forming something distinct.

Before I eat, I am introduced to the long teak bar, where house-made fruit syrups in glass vessels line the counter. Without saying anything, I watch the staff work. It is immediately clear that they are well-trained, attentive, and experienced. If not for the menu ahead, I could have spent the hour here simply appreciating their focused process.

My drink, like the staff and décor, did not disappoint. It is a balanced, slightly sweet cocktail made with Bussaba, a beer from Full Moon Brewworks. It is garnished with an orange slice, which I happily indulge in. It is fruity, aromatic, and effortlessly enjoyable. I would recommend it to anyone except those who prefer only the most bitter beverages. The snack pairing was equally well executed: elegant in texture and light. Some restaurants treat bar snacks as afterthoughts, but at Burapa even these elements are carefully considered.

A cocktail and snack pairing, priced at 380 baht, has been introduced alongside Burapa's new lunch menu.

A whole table of options are brought before me, some new and some familiar. I try everything I can while maintaining my manners. Unlike western restaurants, where dishes are typically prepared fo

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Breaking

Exposé: Popular TV Presenter Accused of Inappropriate Relationships with Students, Using Money to Silence Victims

A gossip page has exposed allegations that a prominent Thai TV presenter engaged in inappropriate relationships with young students, allegedly using money to silence victims and threatening them. Social media users are actively speculating about the presenter's identity as some parents of alleged victims reportedly prepare to publicly reveal details of the misconduct.

6 May Khaosod

Social media users are scrambling to identify the person being referenced following a post by the popular gossip page Madam Mount, who revealed hints about a sharp-tongued TV presenter. The post stated: "Hey everyone, do you know about this blunt-talking TV presenter who loves gossiping about celebrities? Madam has heard that he has a preference for Gen Z students and takes them on secret trips, then uses money to keep them quiet. But this time, some parents of these young people refuse to stay silent and are prepared to expose his shameful behavior!" The post continued with further allegations: "According to insider information, this presenter is set to receive a major position on the network's board, yet his behavior remains questionable. Many young people, both male and female, have been affected by him. He's paid them off and even threatened some that if they speak up, their futures won't look good. This kind of behavior should not go unpunished." Amid widespread social media speculation and debate, users are attempting to guess the identity of the person being described. The allegations were originally reported by the Madam Mount page and picked up by news teams on May 6, 2026.

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