Bangkok, 4 August 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is highlighting the record-breaking first season of Running Man Thailand, which generated 6.85 billion impressions across platforms, more than 390 million online views and over 10 million digital engagements. The iQIYI Original used a travel-race format to showcase Thailand’s destinations, culture and local experiences to global audiences.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “The tremendous response to Running Man Thailand reflects the power of Entertainment Marketing to bring Thailand’s tourism experiences to global audiences through engaging, widely accessible content. By placing destinations, culture and communities within the programme’s storytelling, the collaboration raised international visibility for Thailand while inspiring domestic travel. It also supported our ‘Healing is the New Luxury’ direction by presenting travel as a source of enjoyment, connection and discovery.”

TAT supported the first season through destination content, tourism featurettes and integrated Amazing Thailand visibility. Produced by iQIYI in close collaboration with South Korea’s SBS Studio Prism, the original format’s creator, Running Man Thailand adapted the internationally recognised franchise through Thai personalities, humour and destination experiences.

Premiering on 22 February 2026, the 10-episode series aired weekly on Sunday at 18.00 Hrs. (GMT+7) on One31. The cast featured seven leading Thai entertainers: Oat Pramote Pathan, Jeff Worakamon Satur, Ink Waruntorn Paonil, Tay Tawan Vihokratana, NuNew Chawarin Perdpiriyawong, Pueak Pongsatorn Jongwilas and Daou Pittaya Saechua.

Each episode transformed prominent locations into settings for missions and challenges. Featured sites included the Giant Swing, the Grand Palace and Bangkok’s historic neighbourhoods, together with Pattaya’s floating markets and beaches.

The programme became Thailand’s most searched variety show on Google Trends in 2026, frequently ranked No. 1 on X in Thailand, and trended weekly in more than 10 countries. It also won the KAZZ Awards 2026 Hottest TV Program award, reflecting its broad reach and cultural impact.

Nearly half of the audience was aged between 19 and 30, with around 30 per cent from international markets. Additional exposure came from 3.39 billion media impressions, creator amplification and citywide out-of-home advertising, including Bangkok Skytrain wraps, LED billboards and mobile displays.

TAT’s campaign included two tourism featurettes developed for distinct audiences. MINNIE introduced international viewers to favourite places, food and people in Thailand, while Mos and Bank shared personal stories from their home provinces of Loei and Chanthaburi. The content generated approximately 21,000 video views, 13,000 likes and more than 450 shares across iQIYI Thailand’s official channels.

Amazing Thailand visibility was integrated throughout the season through programme graphics, subtitles, end credits and official social media. A 30-second promotional spot aired in each episode, complemented by a designated programme clip for TAT distribution and cast amplification. MINNIE also appeared as a special guest.

The uncut version of Running Man Thailand, together with deleted scenes and behind-the-scenes content, remains available through the iQIYI application and iQ.com.

The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is accepting comments on a draft announcement to add Government Housing Bank (GHB) savings bonds as an eligible investment asset for mutual funds, expanding portfolio management options and fund liquidity. The regulation would standardize investment criteria for GHB savings bonds across state financial institutions while maintaining safeguards against concentration risk. Following the Capital Market Supervisory Board's approval in June 2026 to allow retail mutual funds, institutional investor funds, and provident funds to invest in GHB bonds, the SEC opened a first public comment period from June 18 to July 18, 2026, which received unanimous support. The SEC is now holding a second comment period on the draft announcement, classifying GHB bonds as "deposits or deposit-equivalent instruments" to ensure consistent investment standards and greater flexibility in portfolio management, while keeping fund managers subject to existing investment rules, risk diversification requirements, asset suitability assessments, and disclosure obligations. Fund managers must continue following concentration risk controls, including limits on exposure to individual issuers and restrictions on investments within the same business group, to protect investor interests. The public can submit comments through the SEC website or by email to tonyada@sec.or.th or pattarav@sec.or.th until September 2, 2026.

Looking for the best family resort near Phuket Airport? Here’s why Mai Khao should be on your listLegacyFor many families, the perfect holiday starts with a simple question: Where should we stay in Phuket that’s close to the airport but still feels like a tropical escape? While areas like Patong, Kata and Karon are well known for their lively atmosphere, travellers looking for a quieter experience are increasingly choosing Mai Khao Beach. Located on Phuket’s northwest coast, this stretch of coastline offers wide sandy beaches, fewer crowds and convenient access to Phuket International Airport, making it an attractive destination for families travelling with children. One resort that continues to attract both international and domestic travellers is Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort, situated approximately 15 minutes from Phuket International Airport. Why more families are choosing Mai Khao Beach For parents travelling with young children, reducing travel time after a long flight can make the start of a holiday much easier. Staying close to the airport means less time in the car and more time enjoying the destination. Mai Khao Beach is one of Phuket’s longest beaches, stretching for around 11 kilometres along the island’s northern coastline. Unlike Phuket’s more commercial beach destinations, Mai Khao has retained much of its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often choose this area for:

Quiet beachfront walks Spacious beaches where children can play Less crowded surroundings Easy airport access A more relaxed holiday experience

For travellers seeking a slower pace, Mai Khao offers a different side of Phuket.

A family-friendly resort with space to relax Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort has been designed with both couples and families in mind. Spacious accommodation, tropical gardens and direct beach access provide plenty of room for guests to unwind. Accommodation options include Premium Rooms, Premium Pool Access Rooms and Suites, making the resort suitable for everything from weekend escapes to extended family holidays. The resort also features:

Kids Club Large outdoor swimming pool Children’s pool Explore Spa Fitness center Multiple restaurants and bars Direct access to Mai Khao Beach

These facilities allow families to enjoy activities together while also giving parents opportunities to relax. Dining with something for everyone Food is an important part of any family holiday, and the resort offers a variety of dining experiences throughout the day. Guests can enjoy international breakfast selections, authentic Thai cuisine, fresh seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, while younger travellers can choose from family-friendly menu options. Beachfront dining also provides an opportunity to enjoy Phuket’s famous sunsets without leaving the resort.

More than just a beach holiday Mai Khao is also well positioned for exploring northern Phuket. Nearby attractions include:

Turtle Village Splash Jungle Water Park Sirinat National Park Local cafés and restaurants Scenic cycling routes Island excursions departing from nearby marinas

Families looking to combine relaxation with sightseeing will find plenty to do without travelling across the island every day.

Sustainable travel is becoming increasingly important Many travellers now consider a hotel’s environmental practices before booking. Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort has introduced several sustainability initiatives, including refillable bathroom amenities, glass drinking bottles, linen and towel reuse programs, and participation in community environmental projects around Mai Khao. These efforts reflect the growing focus on responsible tourism across Phuket’s hospitality industry. Frequently asked questions How far is Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort from Phuket International Airport? The resort is approximately 15 minutes by car, making it one of the closest luxury beachfront resorts to the airport. Is Mai Khao Beach suitable for families? Yes. Its wide sandy beach, peaceful atmosphere and uncrowded surroundings make it popular with families travelling with children. What facilities are available for children? The resort offers a Kids Club, children's swimming pool, family-friendly activities and spacious outdoor areas. Is Mai Khao quieter than Patong? Yes. Mai Khao is known for its natural surroundings and relaxed atmosphere, while Patong is Phuket's main entertainment district. Can visitors explore other parts of Phuket? Absolutely. Northern Phuket attractions are nearby, while destinations such as Phuket Old Town, Phang Nga Bay and island tours can be reached on day trips. A quieter way to experience Phuket For travellers searching for the best family resort near Phuket Airport, Mai Khao Beach offers an appealing alternative to Phuket’s busier tourist areas. With its peaceful beachfront setting, spacious accommodation, family-friendly facilities and convenient location, Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort continues to be a popular choice for families looking to combine relaxation with easy access to the island’s attractions. For more information or reservations, please visit the resort’s official website at Le Méridien Phuket Mai Khao Beach Resort or contact rsvn@lemeridienmaikhao.com Press Release The story Looking for the best family resort near Phuket Airport? Here’s why Mai Khao should be on your list as seen on Thaiger News.

On August 4, a report confirmed the emergence of seven large sinkholes in the Ban Wang Wang Charoen area, Moo 2, Huai Muang Subdistrict, Phu Phaman District, Khon Kaen Province. The sinkholes have appeared in agricultural land belonging to local farmers. Surveys show each sinkhole is notably large in both width and depth, and they appear to be expanding, causing considerable alarm among residents in the area.

District Chief Siwakorn Mitrachayan has tasked Senior District Administrator Prajuab Jitkham, along with Khomphet Krasingham, headman of Huai Muang Subdistrict Administration Organization, and community leaders to inspect the site. The location is approximately 12 kilometers from Phu Phaman cliff and the district center. Tourism attractions in the area remain safe.

On August 4, 2025, at Parliament, Theerachat Tort-rakul, a former Pheu Thai party list candidate and member of the ICT and Revolving Fund equipment subcommittee of the exceptional budget bill review committee, revealed troubling procurement irregularities. Several state agencies have solicited price quotes from companies outside their fields—for instance, one agency requested IT system pricing from a real estate developer, while another sought 50-million-baht valuations from a private firm with zero revenue. These concerns, he said, received no attention from government-aligned subcommittee members, prolonging deliberations and creating tension.

Theerachat cited the Interior Ministry's 77-province fire suppression system project as an example: each province required different specifications and computer room sizes, yet the proposal submitted to the subcommittee contained no details. He alleged the ministry presented two different bid forms—one to the Budget Bureau and another to the subcommittee. He also described a case where a single individual submitted bids for the same project under two separate companies, presenting clear fraud risks, yet all proposals ultimately passed.

During Interior Ministry budget hearings, a deputy permanent secretary confronted Theerachat when he raised concerns about concealed documents, slapping the table and pointing at him in what he called unacceptable conduct. Frustrated by rushed approvals—some projects approved before the secretary even finished reading their names—Theerachat recorded the proceedings on his phone, prompting the subcommittee to call parliamentary police. He called for live-streaming of all budget review sessions.

Theerachat highlighted more examples of misaligned projects: the Energy Ministry proposing a banana-drying oven (supposedly to educate communities on energy transition), and the Land Reform Office seeking meatball-making and sausage-making machines plus lemongrass cutters, which he found confusing. "It's time to overhaul how these budgets are drafted," he said.

Meanwhile, Navy Captain Kitti Phiyawanna, a Pheu Thai list MP and member of the annual expenditure budget committee, noted that the Department of Provincial Administration repeatedly requested overlapping network equipment across projects. Adopting the government's "Cloud First" policy, he argued, would achieve significant savings.