National

TikTok to invest over $26 billion in Thailand data infrastructure expansion

TikTok will invest $26.3 billion in Thailand's data infrastructure across Bangkok and eastern provinces, part of $29.9 billion in approved projects aimed at establishing Thailand as a regional tech hub.

6 May Khaosod

Thailand's Board of Investment has approved six major investment projects worth a combined 958 billion baht ($29.9 billion), with TikTok accounting for the largest share through a massive data infrastructure expansion project.

BOI Secretary-General Narit Therdsteerasukdi announced on May 6 that the board approved three data centre and data hosting projects worth a combined 913.8 billion baht ($28.6 billion), reflecting sustained investor confidence in Thailand's digital economy ambitions.

The largest project belongs to TikTok Systems (Thailand) Co., Ltd., which plans to invest 842.35 billion baht ($26.3 billion) across Bangkok, Samut Prakan and Chachoengsao provinces.

The project will expand server installations to strengthen Thailand's position as a strategic regional hub for data storage and processing, meeting growing demand from users across Southeast Asia.

The BOI noted that TikTok will also develop digital literacy and e-commerce training programmes designed to create new business opportunities for Thai entrepreneurs and strengthen the country's digital workforce.

Other approved digital infrastructure projects include a 46.9 billion baht ($1.46 billion) investment by Skyline Data Center and Cloud Services, part of the UAE-based DAMAC Group, in Chachoengsao province. The facility will support an IT load capacity of 200 megawatts.

Bridge Data Centres IIO (Thailand) Co., Ltd. also received approval for a 24.6 billion baht ($769 million) data centre project in Chonburi province with an IT load capacity of 134 megawatts.

Beyond the digital sector, the BOI approved projects in recycled plastics, wind power and potassium chloride production.

Narit stated that Thailand continues to attract substantial investment interest in digital and high-technology sectors despite global economic challenges, strengthening the country's aspirations to become a regional tech hub.

He added that the BOI is collaborating with partner agencies to enhance infrastructure, electricity systems and clean energy mechanisms while expediting investment approvals through the Thailand FastPass programme.

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National

Madam Kaeng Tearfully Apologizes to Big Turtle, Reveals Tone Bang Kaew's Words from April 17 Negotiation

Madam Kaeng publicly apologized with tears to Big Turtle while denying that he ever received money from her, clarifying her involvement in a financial dispute with businessman Tone Bang Kaew involving bounced checks and seized Buddha statues. She detailed how Tonton deceived her in multiple transactions worth over 300 million baht, including a dubious amulet collection deal, and explained she reported the matter to authorities after losing faith in his promises. Her legal team indicated they would expand the investigation into the alleged financial networks involving amulet dealers connected to the case.

6 May Khaosod

On May 5 at the Anti-Corruption Division, Madam Kaeng Thian-tawornwong appeared with her lawyers to clarify allegations made by Tonton Sukkaew (Tone Bang Kaew) at Phaholyothin Police Station regarding events on April 17, 2568. Madam Kaeng prostrated herself tearfully, apologizing to Deputy Police Chief Jaruenjit Pan-aew for the disturbance, stating she felt deeply wronged and believed the matter was unjust. She swore, despite the rain falling, that Big Turtle never accepted any money.

Madam Kaeng detailed the timeline of her relationship with Tonton, explaining that in 2565 she wanted to sell a Bentley worth 35 million baht. A middleman named Mr. A, an amulet collector, introduced her to Tonton, who claimed expertise in pricing luxury vehicles. Their first transaction involved 10 checks of 3.5 million baht each, with payment due 10 months after contract signing.

When the checks bounced, she still believed Tonton was trustworthy and continued doing business with him. That same year, Tonton borrowed 100 million baht, claiming he would expand a telescope-lens manufacturing business for 1,000 units. He offered a building as collateral valued over 100 million baht, but later assessment showed only 60 million baht value with clear mortgage documentation.

Tonton claimed the merchandise sold out but offered to resell at 10,000 baht per unit with only 2,600 baht in costs. This caused her initial disappointment, but Tonton reassured her through brotherhood language, leading her to continue transactions. She emphasized never providing money as gifts but acknowledged bounced checks accumulating to 120 million and 180 million baht.

Tonton showed her 152 accumulated Buddha statues, claiming 400-500 million baht value if held for profit. Believing him since she wasn't an amulet expert, she later appraised them at only 35-40 million baht when needing liquidity, causing further disappointment. Though the 180 million baht loan had a contract through 2573 in installments of 5.5 million baht per check, she couldn't deposit them, leading to stress-induced depression.

On January 14, 2568, she assigned her team to file a complaint with the anti-corruption division, but the case stalled. This made Tonton realize he'd face trouble, so he repeatedly tried scheduling negotiations with Big Turtle through intermediary Por Suthaporn but failed. On April 17, she confirmed Tonton arranged the three-party meeting through Por Suthaporn, with eight people present total.

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Police

Shocking: South African Police Autopsy Giant Crocodile, Discover Human Remains and Six Pairs of Shoes

South African police discovered human remains and six pairs of shoes during an autopsy of a 4.5-meter crocodile in the Komati River, identifying the victim as a businessman who drowned after his vehicle was swept off a flooded bridge. The d

6 May Khaosod

South African authorities conducted a daring and dangerous operation when they performed an autopsy on a giant crocodile in the Komati River, discovering human remains along with six pairs of shoes, as reported by BBC on May 6. Police diving unit officers were forced to rappel from a helicopter onto a crocodile-infested island in the middle of the river since boats could not safely navigate the area due to the presence of crocodiles, hippos, and numerous rock formations.

After suspicious crocodile experts examined a specimen measuring over 4.5 meters long and weighing approximately 500 kilograms, officers performed the autopsy and discovered multiple human body parts, including two arms, ribs, and chest tissue. DNA testing later confirmed the remains belonged to Gabriel Batista, a 59-year-old businessman and hotel owner in the area, who had become lost after his vehicle was swept off a flooded bridge. After escaping his car and attempting to swim to safety, he was carried downstream by powerful currents into a crocodile-inhabited region, either drowning or being attacked by a crocodile.

What alarmed officers most was finding six pairs of shoes—including flip-flops, sandals, canvas shoes, and high heels—inside the crocodile's stomach. Experts noted that crocodiles cannot digest plastic, so the shoes remain intact in the animal's body. Significantly, not all the shoes belonged to the deceased victim, raising concerns that this particular crocodile may be a serial man-eater responsible for previous attacks and deaths in an area prone to flooding and missing persons.

The South African National Police Commissioner praised Captain Potgieter, the diving unit officer, for his "brave and selfless" performance of duty. Potgieter himself revealed this was the first such operation in his 38-year career and expressed hope it would be the last, stating that their work aimed to help grieving families learn the truth and find closure.

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Breaking

Contractor Reaches Breaking Point After Multiple Break-ins, Shoots Intruder in Self-Defense

A contractor shot and killed a burglar who broke into his vacant Udon Thani home with a machete on May 5, claiming self-defense after months of repeated thefts stripped the property of appliances and wiring.

6 May Khaosod

At 10:30 AM on May 6, 2025, Police Captain Chairojn Theerawanwatth and his investigation team from Kumphawapi Police Station brought in 48-year-old Buunchay, accused of shooting a burglar to death who had broken into his residence. Buunchay confessed to the shooting, stating that at approximately 8:30 PM on May 5, a burglar attempted to break into his house in Wapi subdistrict, Phandone tambon, Kumphawapi district, Udon Thani province. When he noticed light inside and went to check, he discovered the intruder forcing open an aluminum door frame on the second floor. After shouting at the burglar, the intruder grabbed a machete and charged toward him with intent to harm. In self-defense, Buunchay fired one shot. The suspect, identified as Winai (Khiao), 50 years old, jumped from the second-floor balcony. Buunchay fired a second shot as the man fled into the nearby forest and collapsed near an abandoned resort about 100 meters away.

Paramedics from Phandone Subdistrict Municipality transported the injured man to Kumphawapi Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The bullet had struck his right back, with the projectile lodged inside. After reporting the incident to police, Buunchay drove his orange Chevrolet pickup truck to take his children to another residence in Non Saoat district before his wife brought him to turn himself in to authorities.

Police Colonel Natthapong Chueethong, commander of Kumphawapi Police Station, led an investigation team to the scene. They seized a registered .32 caliber revolver with four rounds of ammunition found in the truck, plus two spent cartridges. At the crime scene, police recovered a 50-centimeter machete, a hammer, a tire iron, and a screwdriver belonging to the deceased burglar, as well as a pink women's bicycle hidden in nearby bushes that belonged to the victim.

The house showed signs of previous burglaries with extensive damage—electrical appliances, wiring, doors, windows, and frames had been pried open and stolen. Buunchay explained that he purchased the house over 10 years ago but had relocated to open a shop in Non Saoat district about a year ago. Despite advertising the property for sale, it remained vacant and had been repeatedly targeted by burglars who stole air conditioning units, washing machines, and other electrical equipment, even stripping electrical wiring and door frames. Buunchay said he had been randomly checking on the property to catch the burglar but never succeeded until this night.

"Last night I drove my pickup with my 10-year-old son and 3-year-old daughter to run errands in Kumphawapi town," Buunchay recounted. "On the way back, I noticed lights on inside the house, so I parked and told the children to wait in the truck. I carried my gun to check the house. When I climbed the stairs to the second floor, I saw a man forcing open the door frame. I shouted at him, and he shouted back in surprise. Then he grabbed a machete and charged at me, so I fired once in self-defense. The burglar dropped the blade and jumped from the second-floor balcony. I fired another shot as he fled."

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National

Airt Pongsak Defends Bangkok's Budget Under 'Governor Aswin,' Claims Surplus of 76 Billion Baht, Not 94 Million

Former Bangkok official Pongsak Kwanmeung disputes claims the city was left with only 94 million baht, asserting the previous administration under Governor Aswin actually left a 76 billion baht surplus despite heavy pandemic relief costs an

6 May Khaosod

May 6, 2026 – Pongsak Kwanmeung, spokesperson for the Democratic Party and former Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) spokesman during Lieutenant General Aswin Kwanmeung's tenure as governor, posted on Facebook to clarify Bangkok's budget situation. He stated that Bangkok's budget operated at a surplus every year, and efforts to pay down BTS debt left behind approximately 76 billion baht, not 94 million.

Recent discussions about Bangkok's financial status have referenced the period when Lieutenant General Aswin served as governor. Without criticizing current administrators, Pongsak sought to clarify the facts in fairness to Lieutenant General Aswin, who committed to supporting the work without criticism or obstruction.

1. Budget Surplus: Bangkok maintained surpluses across multiple fiscal years: 2017 (+54.06 billion), 2018 (+141.93 billion), 2019 (+81.34 billion), 2020 (+45.86 billion), 2021 (+45.51 billion), 2022 (+109.52 billion).

Year-end budget surpluses are normal accounting occurrences resulting from revenue exceeding targets or projects bidding below estimates. However, during 2019-2022, Bangkok faced the COVID-19 crisis. The government provided emergency assistance by reducing land and property taxes by 90% for two consecutive years, costing Bangkok 10,000-14,000 million baht annually in lost revenue. Despite mounting expenditures for healthcare, pandemic relief, and citizen support, the administration managed the crisis through strict fiscal discipline.

2. BTS Debt: Current officials note that even after allocating funds for BTS debt repayment, Bangkok maintained a surplus exceeding 5 billion baht. Lieutenant General Aswin attempted multiple approaches to resolve this pre-existing debt:

2.1 – Requested Bangkok Council approval to use accumulated reserves for debt repayment, but faced rejection due to council concerns about debt burden and municipal bankruptcy.

2.2 – Submitted borrowing legislation to the council to transfer assets and settle debt, successfully resolving the Mochit-Khuekhot portion.

2.3 – Sought central government subsidies for remaining debt, citing the government's original construction of the infrastructure, but was not approved.

2.4 – The government attempted Section 44 negotiations with private sectors, which ultimately yielded no agreement.

3. The 94 Million Baht Narrative: This represents the most unfair characterization. Repeatedly claiming that the previous administration left only 94 million baht ignores the actual transfer of approximately 76 billion baht in accumulated reserves (allocated for civil service pensions, emergency reserves, and resources for new leadership). The new administration and council subsequently approved using 76 billion baht for system maintenance costs (over 23 billion baht) and operational expenses (over 40 billion baht), reducing remaining BTS debt to approximately 50,000-60,000 million baht. Current accumulated reserves are projected at billions of baht.

Ultimately, whether financial management yields a "surplus," "balanced," or "deficit" budget each carries different advantages and disadvantages. What matters most is responsible stewardship.

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National

Mr. D.I.Y. Holding Holds First Shareholder Meeting Following Stock Exchange Listing

Mr. D.I.Y. Holding held its first shareholder meeting since listing on Thailand's stock exchange in November 2024, approving a 0.261 baht per share dividend. The home improvement retailer operates 1,127 branches nationwide and expanded to a

6 May Khaosod

Bangkok – May 5, 2025 – Mr. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) Public Company Limited (MRDIYT), a leading retailer of home decoration equipment and lifestyle products, has successfully held its annual shareholder meeting (AGM) for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024.

The meeting was held on April 30, 2025, at True Digital Park in Bangkok, representing the company's first shareholder meeting following its listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand (SET) on November 5, 2024. The company trades under the ticker symbol "MRDIYT," and its initial public offering (IPO) was recognized as the highest-valued offering in Thailand in 2024.

The meeting was chaired by Adrian Ong, Chairman of the Board, and attended by board members and senior executives, including Andy Chin Guan Kui, Chief Executive Officer.

Shareholders approved all agenda items, including the audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2024, and the allocation of annual net profit. Shareholders also approved an annual dividend payment of 0.261 baht per share, totaling approximately 1,507 million baht, or 57.27% of net profit. The company had previously paid an interim dividend of 0.201 baht per share (1,145.97 million baht), with a remaining dividend of 0.06 baht per share (361.03 million baht) to be paid as a final dividend.

During 2024, Mr. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) continued expanding, reaching a total of 1,127 branches nationwide, supported by ongoing infrastructure investments and operational capabilities. This growth reflects the company's commitment to making everyday essential products affordable and easily accessible to communities across Thailand, while maintaining disciplined operations.

As part of the regional Mr. D.I.Y. group, the company benefits from a strong brand and recognized business model, enabling continuous expansion while efficiently meeting domestic market demand.

Mr. D.I.Y. Holding (Thailand) remains focused on strengthening business fundamentals and building stable, sustainable long-term growth.

"Last year was another significant milestone for us with our listing on the Stock Exchange of Thailand," said Andy Chin Guan Kui, Chief Executive Officer. "In 2024, the company expanded branches across all 77 provinces nationwide, reflecting the strength of our scalable business model and enhanced ability to serve customers comprehensively throughout Thailand. As we continue growing, our vision remains clear: to deliver quality products at affordable prices and convenient access for customers, while building a stable, disciplined, and sustainably growing business. We are confident in the potential of the Mr. D.I.Y. brand and ready to leverage this strength to expand growth in Thailand."

The successful completion of this first shareholder meeting reflects the company's commitment to conducting business with integrity and transparency.

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National

PTT Included in Dow Jones Index for 14th Consecutive Year, Reaffirming Global Sustainability Leadership

PTT has been named to the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Index for the 14th straight year, joining several of its subsidiaries in recognition of strong environmental, social, and governance practices.

6 May Khaosod

PTT Public Company Limited has been selected for inclusion in the Dow Jones Best-in-Class Index (DJBICI), formerly known as the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI), for the 14th consecutive year in both the DJBIC World Index and DJBIC Emerging Markets Index, reflecting international-standard business operations.

The company adheres to good corporate governance principles while reducing greenhouse gas emissions across all operational processes in economic, social, and environmental dimensions. PTT also manages its supply chain efficiently to support sustainable growth. The company prioritizes environmental management and climate change mitigation aligned with national and international targets while caring for all stakeholder groups based on balanced sustainability principles, following its vision of "PTT strong together with Thai society and growing globally in a sustainable manner."

Several PTT subsidiaries have also been selected for DJBICI inclusion, including PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited, Thai Oil Public Company Limited, IRPC Public Company Limited, PTT Global Chemical Public Company Limited, Global Power Synergy Public Company Limited, and PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited.

The Dow Jones Best-in-Class Index (DJBICI) is a globally recognized index that evaluates business performance of listed companies according to sustainable development guidelines, covering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria. It is acknowledged internationally by investors, financial institutions, and funds worldwide to build confidence among both domestic and foreign investors.

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National

Director Phoch Anant Unbothered by 'Heng Chia Jazz' Flopping: 'If It Doesn't Work This Time, We'll Try Again—Stop Freaking Out'

Director Phoch Anant brushes off criticism over his film "Heng Chia Jazz" flopping at the box office, saying he's unbothered and will simply make another movie if this one doesn't work. The veteran filmmaker stressed that the film turned a

6 May Khaosod

Renowned director Phoch Anant is not stressed about his film 'Heng Chia Jazz' failing to make money, casually suggesting that if this one doesn't work out, he'll just make another one—so everyone should calm down.

Having made numerous films throughout his career, the talented director is often the subject of discussion from various angles. Most recently, Phoch Anant faced criticism over 'Heng Chia Jazz' not performing financially, with some even asking him on social media how he felt about the film's poor box office returns.

He responded with a laid-back video in typical Phoch Anant style: "I want to thank our loyal fans who keep watching our movies. Are you disappointed? I'm not. There are plenty of other Thai films that made no money or earned less than ours. Our film had a smaller budget, but our production quality is second to none. This one didn't work out, maybe the next one will. Some companies make multiple films but only succeed with one. Our investors told me that as long as the film doesn't lose money and makes a little profit, that's good enough. Don't worry about it. Stop overthinking—I'm someone who enjoys keeping people on their toes anyway, otherwise life has no flavor, right? I'm happy to have made films in different styles. Thanks to our fans. Sometimes you hit, sometimes you miss, but at least we're still a top-five or top-ten earning production company. Missing the top rankings for a year isn't a big deal. The year's not even over yet, haha."

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Police

Village Chief Resigns After Alleged Sexual Assault of 13-Year-Old Girl; Police File Two Serious Charges

A village chief in Nakhon Phanom province has resigned after police filed charges of child sexual assault and rape against him following a complaint from the parents of a 13-year-old girl in late April.

6 May Khaosod

On May 6, 2025, Pol. Lt. Col. Kurupong Kaeo-saad, superintendent of Wang Yang Police Station, revealed progress in a case filed on April 28 by the parents of a 13-year-old girl from Nakhon Phanom province. They accused village chief Kittipong of assaulting their daughter and sexually coercing her. Pol. Lt. Col. Kurupong stated that investigators questioned both the accused and the victim. Although the village chief initially denied the charges, sufficient evidence was found, and the girl underwent a medical examination. Police are confident they have adequate evidence for prosecution. Pol. Lt. Col. Kurupong noted that despite the accused attempting to reconcile with the victim's family, this case cannot be settled as it is a criminal matter involving a child. Two charges are being prepared: abduction of a minor and indecent assault of a child under 15 years old, and rape with aggravated circumstances, carrying sentences of up to 20 years imprisonment or life imprisonment. The accused was informed of the charges and legal procedures will proceed fairly for both parties. The incident reportedly occurred because the girl worked part-time as a traditional music performer, which the village chief exploited to approach and coerce her. Investigation revealed that Kittipong resigned from his position on April 28, after the incident occurred, placing the matter solely under police jurisdiction rather than district administrative disciplinary action. Meanwhile, social development and human security officials from Nakhon Phanom province, coordinated through a foundation, have been providing support and psychological rehabilitation to the 13-year-old girl and her family.

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National

Top Female Tennis Players Threaten French Open Boycott Over Unfair Prize Money

Top female tennis players including world number one Aryna Sabalenka have threatened to boycott the French Open unless organizers increase prize money to match the revenue share offered at other major tournaments.

6 May Khaosod

World number one Aryna Sabalenka has revealed that top-ranked female tennis players may boycott the Grand Slam tournament French Open if prize money is not increased appropriately. Although Roland Garros organizers announced a 9.5% increase in total prize money to €61.7 million (approximately $72.19 million) this year, this increase is insufficient to resolve the dispute. Leading players have stated that prize money represents less than 15% of the tournament's total revenue, far below the 22% standard set by ATP and WTA tournaments.

Speaking on behalf of female tennis players, Sabalenka stated: "I think at some point we will boycott the tournament. I feel that's the only way to fight for our rights. Let's see how far we can go. Some things that are happening feel completely unfair to athletes. This competition is driven by us. Without athletes, these tournaments and entertainment wouldn't exist. So we should receive a larger share of the revenue."

World number four Coco Gauff agreed 100%, supporting a boycott for the future of the sport, particularly to help players ranked 50 to 200 who lack major sponsorship deals and many of whom struggle financially. Gauff also suggested that tennis players establish a "union" similar to the women's basketball league (WNBA), which successfully reached an agreement after lengthy negotiations.

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Community

All-Out Fun! Domundi Invests Over 70 Million Baht to Create a Happiness Land at 'DMD LAND 3'

Domundi spent over 70 million baht on "DMD LAND 3," a two-day concert at Impact Arena in May featuring 39 artists from five generations of the label performing over 7 hours of continuous entertainment.

6 May Khaosod

Domundi invested over 70 million baht to create a happiness land in 'DMD LAND 3,' delivering a marathon of entertainment for over 7 hours to give the best gift to their fans. The grand and lavish event, led by company founder Off Kittipat Jampaa, took over Impact Arena for 2 full days with 39 artists from 5 generations of the Domundi label delivering exciting performances. The massive concert 'DMD LAND 3: THE FINAL LAND "LAND OF FUSION" CONCERT' took place on May 2-3, 2026 at Impact Arena in Muang Thong Thani, featuring over 7 continuous hours of performances with high-budget production. The show kicked off with all artists performing 'Turn Down for What,' showcasing the breadth of the label's talent across 5 generations through songs like 'Bad Angels' and 'Blinding Light.' Highlights included Nunew's mysterious flying saucer entrance and fierce 'FXCK UP THE WORLD' performance, boy group DEXX's energetic three-song medley including 'Tokyo Drift,' Poppy's sultry 'Umbrella,' Park's smooth 'Gentleman,' and Mark's playful 'Banana.' Jimmy impressed on guitar with 'About You,' while Tommy delivered the emotional 'Don't Go.' Late and Kim charmed audiences riding a Harley in 'Sapya Ga Sa Long,' while Net and JJ brought both dance and vocals to 'Thalnung,' and Riujin and Patchi had the crowd screaming with 'BF.' Mek took over as DJ with 'My Humps' as Nath showcased dance moves center stage, while Om captivated with 'Crazy in Love,' Tutor and Yim impressed with 'Kitty Swag,' and U'u and Safe kicked off their appearance with screams from opening moments.

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