Nadech Unfazed by Charity Scandals, Urges Pure-Hearted Giving
Thai star Nadech Kugimiya, speaking at a Mega Bangna holiday campaign launch, said recent charity foundation scandals have not deterred him from making merit. He emphasized that giving should come from a pure heart and can take many forms beyond foundations, urging donors to seek transparency while not overthinking to the point of inaction. Nadech shared that he now donates directly to temples, individuals, and trusted causes where he can see the impact firsthand.
At the Mega Happiness Season 2026 campaign launch opening the 'Mega Happiness Factory' at Mega Plaza, Mega Bangna, actor Nadech Kugimiya spoke openly about the recent uproar over a high-profile foundation accused of misusing donated funds. He acknowledged hearing the news initially but said he did not investigate further and has since stopped following it. Nadech stressed that the scandal does not affect his intention to make merit, because every time he gives, it comes from a sincere heart. He noted that merit-making takes many forms and need not always go through foundations, advising that organizations prioritize clarity, transparency, and auditable evidence so everyone feels comfortable.
Asked if the foundation drama makes him wary of donating, Nadech replied no. He said he ordinarily makes merit with monks and temples, and also donates directly — often transferring funds himself. He has supported foundations, temples, individuals, and children in various ways. 'When we make merit or donate, we have the feeling of wanting to give, we feel glad, and we feel we've earned merit,' he said. 'We don't come thinking with worry or fear. If there are mistakes or wrongdoing, they will eventually come to light based on causes and conditions. But personally, when I do merit, I only have a pure heart and I'm ready to do it. If we sit and overthink, we'll just say oh well, never mind, and keep it to ourselves.'
On whether the news has eroded his faith in merit-making, Nadech said no. He urged people not to lose faith in giving — whether goods or money — because many agencies, both public and private, are trustworthy. Even buying water for a tired elderly person on the street is a form of merit. He encouraged everyone to choose the method that suits their convenience and conscience, adding that giving to any group, large or small, returns a happiness that cannot be precisely described but deeply affects the heart.
Asked if he has personally delivered donations, Nadech confirmed he has supported foundations for the blind and for orphans regularly. He said he has not had the opportunity to donate through his sister Ploy. Recently, he has been straightforward: aside from going to temples himself to offer requisites or donate, he gives directly from himself and does not channel donations through foundations. He cited an example of a doctor friend at a Khon Kaen hospital who lacked medical equipment; Nadech donated directly because they are close friends, he trusts the need is real, and he feels at ease seeing the tangible result.
