Montri Mahapruekspong, Vice President of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), said data center investment plays a crucial role in upgrading the country's digital infrastructure and supporting development of cloud, AI, and big data technologies. This would enhance production efficiency and strengthen Thailand's industrial competitiveness. However, investment promotion must go hand-in-hand with efficient resource management and conditions ensuring concrete benefits for Thai businesses and the economy.

The FTI CEO Poll 51, conducted in July 2025 on "Industrial perspectives on data center investment in Thailand," found that 72.5% of industry leaders view data center investment as highly important for economic and industrial development. Thailand's strongest readiness is in internet and telecommunications networks, followed by electrical systems and energy security, while data protection laws and cybersecurity systems still need urgent development.

Industry leaders expect data centers to serve as critical infrastructure supporting big data, AI, IoT, and automation for product and service development, cost reduction, and production efficiency gains. The investment would also open opportunities for Thai businesses in construction, electrical systems, cooling systems, equipment, and maintenance—creating high-skilled jobs and domestic value addition.

The FTI proposes that government investment incentives be linked to technology transfer, joint research and development with businesses and Thai educational institutions, and workforce training in AI, cloud, and data analytics. Support should extend to Thai digital entrepreneurs and startups developing software, services, and platforms connected to data centers to build value and reduce dependence on foreign technology.

However, most industry leaders remain concerned about water availability in data center areas, which could be insufficient for growing demand and create competition for resources with other industries and communities. This could strain electrical infrastructure, impact power grid security, and increase electricity costs for other users. Additionally, unclear or outdated laws, standards, and regulatory systems for rapidly evolving technology pose cybersecurity and data protection risks that could damage investor confidence and public trust.

On August 7, 2025, authorities reported an update on the case of a Grade 9 student who carried out a shooting attack at Thepsirin School in the Bang Kruai district of Nonthaburi province, resulting in deaths and injuries among teachers and students. The gunman's grandfather and grandmother were shot dead at their home on Lad Wat Pla Duk Alley, as previously reported.

Now, Ms. Thananyaporn (surname withheld), age 60, the grandmother of the gunman and sister of the deceased grandfather, explained that the boy normally lived with his grandparents, who both loved him very much because his parents had separated and the grandparents raised him. Ordinarily, the boy would not go anywhere—his grandfather drove him to school in the morning and picked him up in the evening. He had no friend groups and did not engage in typical childhood play; instead, he stayed home and played video games.

The family does not believe family problems were involved, as all three of them loved each other deeply. The grandmother is a teacher, and the grandfather was formerly a bank manager with whom the boy communicated regularly. The boy himself was well-behaved and polite, so the family never expected an incident like this to occur.

A passenger car crashed into a childcare development centre in Kanchanaburi province on Friday, leaving about 10 people injured, according to the Rattanavudh Foundation. The foundation said the car ploughed into Ban Nong Song Ton Child Development Centre in Muang district. Rescue workers, emergency medical teams and police were dispatched to the scene to assist the injured and secure the area. Authorities were triaging victims, providing first aid at the scene and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Traffic around the site was being managed to allow ambulances and rescue vehicles quick access. The cause of the crash has not yet been determined, and officials said the number of injured could change as the situation develops. The Rattanavudh Foundation urged motorists to avoid the area, give way to emergency vehicles and follow instructions from authorities while rescue operations continue.

Dr. Pingping Raphat Eknithiseth, a Miss Universe Chachoengsao 2026 contestant, has stood out with her radiant appearance and confident presence at every event, capturing attention as a noteworthy competitor.

While some have not positioned her as the favorite, she has proven her worth through dedication, intentionality, and self-improvement in all pageant activities. She has given her full effort, demonstrating impressive personal presence, communication skills, and teamwork with fellow contestants.

During the three-day competition, Dr. Pingping wore varied looks while maintaining her signature elegance and charming smile, earning enthusiastic support from her fans. She remains guided by her personal motto: "Do your best at every step," believing that "where there is effort, there is success." Each moment on stage is an opportunity for learning and moving closer to her dream.

The path to the Miss Universe crown is far from over. Regardless of the competition outcome, her supporters are confident that Dr. Pingping Raphat Eknithiseth's dedication, determination, and positive spirit will carry her gracefully toward her goal. GO TO UNIVERSE—her dream continues, and fortune may yet await her on the universe stage.

GUNKUL has partnered with LH Bank to secure a sustainability-linked loan of 1 billion baht for investment in clean energy power plants both domestically and internationally. The company has approximately 1,400 megawatts of projects currently in development and awaiting revenue recognition, with plans to expand its renewable energy portfolio to over 2,121 megawatts to align with Thailand's PDP 2026 roadmap and Net Zero emissions goals.

Gunkul Darngpiyavut, chairman of GUNKUL Engineering, stated that the sustainability-linked loan will enable the company to grow through investment and development of clean energy projects in both Thailand and overseas, including solar and wind power projects scheduled for commercial operation between 2027 and 2030, as well as a floating solar farm in the Philippines targeted for late 2027.

The financing supports GUNKUL's ambition to expand clean energy investment in Thailand in line with PDP 2026, which aims to significantly increase the proportion of power generation from clean energy sources and reflects the company's commitment to sustainable business practices aligned with the country's Net Zero targets.

Mark Chen, CEO of LH Bank's Business Customer Group, emphasized the bank's support for sustainable financing services to entrepreneurs prioritizing environmental impact. GUNKUL, as a clean energy leader with over 40 years of energy engineering experience and a portfolio of more than 2,121 megawatts of renewable energy projects, exemplifies the kind of partnership LH Bank seeks to promote renewable energy adoption and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with Thailand's Taxonomy standards.