Court Dismisses Forex 3D Fraud Case Against Actress Pinky

A Thai court dismissed fraud charges against actress Pinky and others in a Forex 3D scheme that defrauded nearly 10,000 victims of 2.5 billion baht between 2015 and 2020.

5d ago Khaosod

On August 13, 2025, the Criminal Court on Ratchadaphisek Road held a verdict hearing in the Forex 3D fraud case (Black Case No. 853/2564), prosecuted by the Special Cases Department against Aphirak Kotthathi, the scheme's operator, along with actress Savika Chaidet (Pinky), her mother Sarinnya Chaidet, her brother Srayut or Kittichetsath Chaidet, and 23 others. The charges included conspiracy to defraud the public and Computer Crime Act violations.

Prosecutors alleged that between November 24, 2015, and September 8, 2020, the defendants collectively deceived the public by advertising an online foreign exchange trading platform via a website and Facebook page called Forex 3D, operating under the fund name Forex 30. Defendants falsely claimed to have professional trading teams managing investments, promised guaranteed 100 percent principal protection with no losses, and solicited initial investments starting at 500 US dollars (15,000 baht), later increased to 2,000 US dollars (50,000 baht). In reality, the defendants never invested the money or conducted any legitimate forex trading operations. Approximately 9,842 victims lost more than 2.489 billion baht in the scheme.

Defendants pleaded not guilty, with most remaining in custody. Only actress Savika Chaidet was released on a 5 million baht bail. The prosecution sought full restitution of 2.489 billion baht to victims. Court analysis of evidence from both prosecution and defense showed that the Forex 3D trading from November 2015 to September 2020 involved speculation on global currency fluctuations, with 9,822 recorded victims suffering damages exceeding 2.473 billion baht. Defendant Aphirak, as manager of the operating companies, coordinated online recruitment through social media, promising profit-sharing at five tiers based on investment level. Early investors received genuine returns, but from early 2562 (2019) onward, payments slowed and eventually ceased.

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National

AP Thailand Ups 2025 Launch Plan to 46 Projects Worth 56 Billion Baht

AP Thailand is accelerating its 2025 expansion with 46 new projects worth 56 billion baht, boosted by strong first-half revenue growth of 7.1% year-on-year despite economic headwinds.

5d ago Khaosod

AP Thailand has raised its 2025 new project launch plan to 46 developments worth 56 billion baht, an increase of four projects valued at 1 billion baht from the original forecast. The company plans to aggressively introduce 31 new projects worth 33.32 billion baht in the second half, split between 17 launches in the third quarter valued at 17.9 billion baht and 14 launches in the fourth quarter worth 15.42 billion baht.

The plan adjustment reflects solid and sustained growth in the first half of 2025 despite global economic headwinds and a gradual Thai economic recovery that has caused fluctuations in real estate demand, purchasing power, and consumer confidence. All business segments—detached houses, duplexes, townhomes, and condominiums, plus regional market projects—have maintained strong momentum.

First-half results demonstrate resilience: the company recognized revenue of 22.431 billion baht, growing 7.1% year-on-year, with net profit of 1.967 billion baht, up 5.2%. The company maintained a strong net debt-to-equity ratio of just 0.66 times. In the first seven months, net sales reached 27.974 billion baht, representing 57% of the full-year target of 49 billion baht. Horizontal segment sales grew 7.6% year-on-year to 22.747 billion baht, while condominium sales surged 59.6% year-on-year to 5.227 billion baht.

The first-half performance and expanded project plan underscore AP Thailand's capability and readiness, built on strong financial discipline, to manage a portfolio of over 200 residential projects nationwide spanning detached homes, duplexes, townhomes, condominiums, and regional developments across all market segments.

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National

TEAMG Reports 29% Q2 Profit Growth to 61 Million Baht

TEAMG's second-quarter profit jumped 29% to 61 million baht, driven by new government contracts including a royal zoo expansion and a Bangkok commuter rail project worth nearly 700 million baht combined.

5d ago Khaosod

TEAMG reported steady growth in first-half 2025 earnings on August 13, with revenue of 1,266 million baht, up 22% year-on-year, and net profit of 111 million baht, up 18%. Chief Executive Chawalit Jantraratana said second-quarter revenue reached 635 million baht, up 19%, while profit climbed to 61 million baht, up 29%.

The company's backlog grew significantly following new contracts including work on Phase 2 of a new zoo project run by Thailand's Public Organization under royal patronage, valued at 434 million baht (10% stake), and engineering consultation services for the light red commuter rail line between Siriraj and Salaya, worth 258 million baht.

At the end of Q2, TEAMG's accumulated backlog reached 5,988 million baht, up 3% from year-end 2024. Government projects comprise 71% of the portfolio. The engineering and procurement construction business segment surged 114%, generating 495 million baht in revenue, while consulting, design, and infrastructure work brought in 433 million baht. The company aims to secure at least 1,000 million baht in additional contracts during the second half of the year.

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National

TrueVisions NOW Partners With Viu to Launch Branded Zone

TrueVisions NOW has partnered with Viu to launch a branded zone featuring six Thai original series on the regional streaming platform, expanding Thai content to Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines starting August 20.

5d ago Khaosod

A significant step for Thai content: TrueVisions NOW has partnered with Viu to launch the "TrueVisions NOW Branded Zone," bringing six original series across borders to three Southeast Asian countries. Bangkok, August 13, 2025 — From stories created by Thai creators to new opportunities in the regional content market... TrueVisions NOW, Thailand's streaming platform and entertainment content leader, has announced a strategic partnership with Viu, a regional OTT video streaming platform, to open the "TrueVisions NOW Branded Zone" — an exclusive space that brings together quality original series from TrueVisions NOW on the Viu platform. The launch will pilot six original series from a library of 24 titles to Viu viewers in Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This collaboration represents another crucial milestone for TrueVisions NOW in scaling from creating content for Thai audiences to expanding its viewer base and creating new opportunities for Thai intellectual property in foreign markets, while advancing Thai creative thinking, identity, and storytelling power to connect with audiences far and wide.

The first batch of content on the "TrueVisions NOW Branded Zone" becomes available on August 20, 2025, and comprises six Thai series: "Sample House" starring Phueak Pongsathon Jongwilai, Chris Horwang, and Neen Neeraara Bunnitipaisit; "Minor Queen" starring Emma Panissha Yang and Peter Pan Tasupon Vivithvorn; "To My Dear Wife... From Your Loving Husband" starring Om Suchar Manayeang and Mew Suphasit Jongcheevathorn; "Undercover Taxi" starring Nicha Nichamamol Kham-In, Ajarn Dong Ajchariya Srita, and Tete Somchai Saiuta; "Muay Fey" starring Pat Chayanishthi Chanjangsakwech and Off Kanthaphan Jindataveepon; and "Rak" starring Film Thanaphat Kavilakha and Bua Nalintiph Skuluangampi.

TrueVisions NOW plans to continuously add more series and expand content to other foreign markets in the future.

Ongraj Prabhakom, head of TrueVisions and Media at True Corporation, stated: "The streaming market in Southeast Asia is growing steadily. In 2024, the number of Premium VOD members in five major markets — Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Singapore — grew 19% to over 61 million accounts. Meanwhile, viewing hours in the fourth quarter alone reached 4.2 billion hours, reflecting both market expansion and audiences increasingly embracing quality content from diverse countries, especially stories with cultural identity that resonate with viewers."

"The partnership between TrueVisions NOW, a premier Thai content leader, and Viu, which has among the highest monthly active users (MAUs) in Southeast Asia, aligns with Asian audience behavior showing greater openness to local language content and stories reflecting cultural identity — a key opportunity to expand Thai content audiences into foreign markets. TrueVisions NOW is therefore advancing its role from being a streaming platform in Thailand to becoming both a creator and driving force in promoting Thai soft power to new markets through distinctive, emotionally resonant, and internationally produced content. Opening the 'TrueVisions NOW Branded Zone' on Viu is not merely adding another viewing channel, but a critical step in bringing Thai Originals and Thai IP to...

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National

Abbot's Sister Urges Him to Relinquish Temple Amid Land Dispute

The sister of a temple abbot in Khon Kaen has urged him to relinquish the monastery amid a land dispute, citing safety concerns, but he refuses to abandon his post serving local residents.

5d ago Khaosod

The sister of Luang Pho Adul, abbot of Wat Pa Adulyaram in Muang district, Khon Kaen province, has expressed serious concern for his safety over a 21-rai temple land dispute. She has suggested he relinquish the temple to those claiming rights to it, but the abbot has insisted he will remain to oversee the monastery for the benefit of local residents.

On August 13, Muang Khon Kaen police continued to station officers at the temple entrance to ensure security and reassure the monks. This followed an incident on August 11 when a group of men blocked the temple's access roads to press their land claims. The situation remained calm, with disciples and relatives of the abbot visiting the temple. The abbot attended a scheduled dialysis appointment at Srinakharinwirot Hospital in Khon Kaen.

Naddha Chee-napheth, 78, the abbot's biological sister, and her husband Rieng, also 78, came to the temple to wait for him at his residence. They were visiting while the abbot was in transit for his dialysis treatment. During her wait, Naddha appeared visibly worried about her brother's safety and health.

Naddha explained that she is the abbot's sister. Their parents had 15 children, with the abbot being the tenth. Before ordination, his name was Sombat Pho Nang. He became a monk after completing his vocational studies and has maintained family contact over the years, occasionally returning home to Sila subdistrict in Muang Khon Kaen.

Naddha said she first learned of the land dispute when it initially went to court. She did not expect it to resurface. She came to the temple after seeing news reports of an unrest at the monastery involving her brother. She is very concerned and, if possible, would like the abbot to simply hand the temple to those seeking it to resolve the matter entirely. She noted he is now elderly and has chronic health conditions, but she acknowledged the decision ultimately rests with him. She admitted that in the past she has made similar suggestions to the abbot, but he has remained firm in his conviction that he must stay to care for the temple so that local residents have a place of refuge and support.

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National

Thailand Rejects Linking Military Ties to Trade Negotiations

Thailand's government rejected linking military cooperation with trade negotiations during talks with a U.S. defense official, asserting the two issues proceed separately on mutual benefit principles.

5d ago Khaosod

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Elbridge Colby, U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, on August 13, 2026, at the Thai Khu Fa Building in Government House at 3:30 p.m. The meeting marked Colby's first official visit to Thailand in his capacity as policy chief at the U.S. Department of Defense.

After the meeting concluded, government spokesperson Ratchada Thanadirek revealed that the Prime Minister had welcomed Colby and expressed satisfaction with the positive trajectory of Thai-U.S. relations. The Prime Minister reaffirmed Thailand's firm position that security cooperation between Thailand and the United States represents a cornerstone of their long-standing bilateral relationship, and that Thailand will not use military cooperation as a condition or negotiating tool in trade talks. Trade negotiations and security cooperation proceed on separate tracks based on mutual benefit and through their respective mechanisms.

Regarding military cooperation, the Prime Minister emphasized that Thailand and the United States have been allies for 193 years. Thailand values this strategic partnership, which benefits both nations and contributes significantly to regional peace, security, and stability. Both sides should strengthen the Thai-U.S. alliance to address evolving international circumstances and effectively respond to modern security threats and challenges.

Colby stated that Thailand is an important U.S. ally and that the United States places strategic importance on the region. He affirmed the U.S. commitment to enhance security cooperation with Thailand to jointly address complex challenges and the rapidly changing security environment. Both sides agreed to elevate their security partnership by developing capacity to counter modern security threats, enhancing military capabilities and modernization, and advancing defense industry cooperation.

On transnational crime, the Prime Minister referenced his July meeting with FBI Director Kash Patel, during which both agreed to strengthen law enforcement cooperation, particularly in preventing and combating transnational crime in the region—a threat both countries consider significant. The Prime Minister also addressed the Thai-Cambodian border situation, thanking President Donald Trump for his constructive role in supporting a resolution. He reaffirmed Thailand's commitment to international law, good neighborliness, peaceful dispute resolution through bilateral mechanisms, and compliance with the Kuala Lumpur Accord.

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National

Khon Kaen Investigates 43 Officials in Local Exam Fraud Case

Khon Kaen is investigating 43 officials suspected of cheating on local government exams, with authorities racing to complete their review by August 31. The province has barred reinstatement of dismissed staff involved in the fraud.

5d ago Khaosod

Khon Kaen is accelerating an investigation into 43 officials suspected of cheating on local government examinations, with a deadline of August 31. The province is requesting cooperation from local authorities to prevent reinstatement of dismissed staff.

Khon Kaen Governor Kajornkiet Rakpanichmanee disclosed details of the local exam fraud investigation on August 13. The province has received a list of 43 individuals who may require investigation, including personnel from provincial organizations, municipalities, and subdistrict administrations. However, full details of all 43 suspects cannot be disclosed yet, as the province is awaiting official documentation and verification by relevant committees before releasing information to avoid damage to those named. The review must examine each person's employment status—whether they have already resigned, are on leave, or are still in position—and consider facts and legal aspects on a case-by-case basis.

Once the province provides guidance to local government organizations, administrators with legal authority must review each case carefully. If information remains unclear, they may consult with provincial authorities or relevant agencies. The deadline for completing all actions is August 31. Beyond reviewing the 43 names, the province is also accepting requests from test candidates who wish to have their scores checked. Those not named or those with names who wish to verify their scores may file requests at both provincial and central levels. Regarding those whose exam results have been cancelled or who have been ordered to leave their positions, the province has requested cooperation from local authorities not to rehire such individuals in any other capacity.

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National

Transport Ministry Partners With Grab to Improve Airport Connections

Thailand's Transport Ministry is partnering with ride-hailing app Grab to improve airport ground transportation services across the country's 21 airports, prioritizing passenger safety and seamless connectivity to destinations.

5d ago Khaosod

Deputy Transport Minister Pattrapong Pattarasetthikul held discussions with Grab Thailand representatives and Airports of Thailand Director General Danai Ruengsaon to develop a cooperation framework aimed at upgrading airport transportation services and enhancing passenger and tourist safety and convenience.

Pattrapong stated that the Transport Ministry prioritizes seamless transport connectivity, particularly between airports and various destinations, as a key element in creating a positive experience for passengers and travelers. The talks with Grab represent an exchange of approaches to develop services responsive to user needs while promoting integration of public transport systems with modern app-based travel services.

Airports of Thailand has already established public transport facilities at all 21 airports nationwide, including buses, taxis, shared vans, and other services tailored to each airport's needs.

The Deputy Transport Minister instructed Airports of Thailand to explore cooperation with Grab to facilitate seamless connections between airports and destination areas, with passenger safety and convenience as priorities. All work must comply with relevant laws and regulations.

The Transport Ministry is committed to developing efficient, safe, and convenient airport ground transportation across regional airports to support both passengers and tourists, while modernizing transport services for the digital age. This effort will boost tourism and sustainable economic growth in provinces and regions nationwide.

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National

Thai Firms Adopt AI Rapidly, but Fail to Deliver Business Results

Thai companies are rapidly adopting AI but struggling to convert investments into measurable business results, with only 19% successfully scaling AI across multiple units while 71% acknowledge partial success at best.

5d ago Khaosod

Deloitte Thailand released its 2026 Digital Transformation Survey with a focus on enterprise AI, finding that although Thai organizations are advancing rapidly in digital transformation, many struggle to translate AI investments into tangible business results. The proportion of Thai firms at the "Becoming Digital" maturity level jumped from 28% to 42% in a single year—a 50% surge—reflecting wider adoption of digital technology and greater cross-functional integration. Meanwhile, 48% of digital budgets in 2026 are now allocated to operational improvements, up from 39% the prior year, and AI adoption has grown to 61% of organizations from 47% previously.

Yet despite rising AI deployment, most organizations face challenges converting expectations into concrete outcomes. Only 19% of firms have successfully scaled AI across multiple business units, while 71% acknowledge achieving only partial success against their stated goals. Nearly 70% of organizations still view AI as primarily an IT department responsibility rather than a company-wide business imperative, fragmenting efforts and preventing enterprise-level transformation.

Robert Gallagher, Deloitte Thailand's technology, media, and telecommunications leader, stated that while Thai firms continue increasing AI investment, structural barriers persist. AI remains largely treated as an IT project rather than a business-led priority. Until senior business leaders take active roles in AI strategy and implementation—with IT providing supporting technical infrastructure—the gap between expectations and results will endure. The survey also found that 71% of organizations cite personnel shortages and lack of technical skills as significant obstacles to AI adoption.

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National

Bangkok Glass: Why Modern Firms Must Invest in Employee Well-being

Bangkok Glass Group is implementing a four-dimensional employee well-being framework addressing mental health, physical fitness, financial security, and workplace relationships as a long-term business investment rather than a cost.

5d ago Khaosod

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming work practices, and economic uncertainty is forcing organizations to accelerate adaptation and continuously improve business efficiency. Yet equally challenging is supporting the people who must constantly learn new skills while facing higher expectations, affecting mental health, burnout, and work-life balance—issues now facing organizations worldwide.

Today's labor market comprises multiple generations with distinctly different views on work. Younger employees seek learning opportunities, flexibility, and meaningful work, while experienced workers prioritize job security, career advancement, and long-term quality of life. As worker needs become more diverse, human resource management thinking must evolve in response.

Consequently, well-being no longer means only benefits or workplace happiness activities. It has become a framework for designing work environments where people can work energetically, enjoy good physical and mental health, have growth opportunities, and sustainably adapt to change. Ultimately, the ability to support and develop employee potential is a critical factor in business competitiveness.

For Bangkok Glass Group, the challenge is more complex given its diverse workforce—production staff, engineers, researchers, sales teams, and office employees—each with different work styles and needs. The key question is not what benefits to add, but how to design a personnel care system enabling everyone to grow according to their potential, even across different work contexts.

Well-being is not a cost; it is a long-term investment.

Historically, well-being was often seen as supplementary activities or benefits that created workplace happiness. Today, many organizations view it as an "investment" because employee quality of life directly impacts work performance, creativity, organizational commitment, and the ability to attract and retain talented people—all critical factors for long-term business growth.

Based on this thinking, Bangkok Glass Group designed personnel care through a four-dimensional framework: Mind, Body, Financial, and Together. The company believes well-being extends beyond physical health to include mental health, financial security, and positive relationships—all of which strengthen long-term work capacity.

In the Mind dimension, the company prioritizes mental health through counseling services and mental health promotion activities, ensuring employees access appropriate support. The Body dimension focuses on ongoing health care, including annual checkups and activities encouraging daily health awareness. The Financial dimension supports financial security through benefits and services that reduce expenses while promoting long-term financial planning. The Together dimension builds positive relationships among colleagues, family, and the organization through activities that encourage participation and foster belonging. Learning itself is another dimension of well-being.

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National

Abbot Defends Land Title Claim as Court Case Nears Final Ruling

A Khon Kaen abbot nears a final Supreme Court ruling over a 21-rai property title dispute he has contested for more than two decades, while a woman claiming family ties to the original owners challenges his claim.

5d ago Khaosod

On August 13, 2026, at 3 p.m., Phra Kru Adulsusan Nithes, abbot of Wat Pa Adulyaram on Kalpapruek Road in Khon Kaen, said he has lived with this dispute for over 20 years. He acknowledged feeling worn down by the lengthy legal battle but expressed gratitude for family support. The abbot confirmed that all petitions have been rejected by lower courts and only a final appeal to the Supreme Court remains. He stated the original deed for the 21-rai property remains in his possession and cannot be publicly displayed, only copies, per his lawyers' advice. The abbot is preparing to file an objection with Khon Kaen Land Office, with assistance from the provincial Buddhist office. Meanwhile, Ba Da told reporters she is a relative of Nang Phimsiree, the late wife of Heiang Phimsiree, and emphasized she is the only one who has cared for the property and relatives over the past 20 years. She explained that Heiang had nine children, and Nang's sister is her grandmother, making Ba Da a true great-granddaughter of Heiang and Nang. When confronted on social media by those questioning her family status, Ba Da responded sharply, asking rhetorically who else would claim to be their grandchild. She stated her side has been deceived and urged critics not to heed gossip-mongers.

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