He opened up about the controversy surrounding donation funds for Kong Huayrai or Kong Akkaradej Yodjampa. He also shared lessons learned from past charity activities that led him to permanently stop acting as a charity conduit at his shows, because he once donated money entrusted by fans to people who did not actually use it for charity, which made him feel very guilty toward his fans.
Asked about offering support to Bella Ranee, who was called in for questioning regarding donation funds?
"I think offering support is good, even beneficial. Sometimes, when a well-known person like her donates sincerely, fans see that and think, 'Wow, even Bella donates; we should contribute more too.' So I believe it’s right that she goes through this process. I don’t want to interfere with others because I understand the situation, but it’s okay because I often meet Bella."
Did you get to talk with her?
"Oh no, I haven’t talked directly. Mostly I talk with my wife, who is close to her. When they get together, I usually go to bed because when women talk, I don’t know what to listen to—it’s women’s talk."
Have you ever donated to that foundation?
"Never mind that. I donated with a pure heart. It’s their karma. I’ve already decided that I haven’t accepted money from the stage for a year now."
Is it because of controversy?
"Yes... I gave fans’ money to people who didn’t actually use it for charity, so I felt guilty. That’s why I told them not to give me money anymore. I will just donate from my performance fees because the event organizers already give plenty."
So you’ve stopped being a charity conduit?
"Yes, I’m no longer a charity conduit. I don’t accept money from fans anymore because even though they give with affection, the purpose has been compromised."
You often do good deeds. How do you feel when incidents like this happen? Does it shake your faith and desire to give?
"No, I don’t lose faith. Those who are sincere remain sincere. Like news about monks or others, it’s only about one person and doesn’t change the whole picture. Those who need help still need help. Everyone genuinely helps. The mistakes are mistakes, and the right actions should be praised. The wrongdoers must face their karma. I don’t want people to think no one will dare to help anymore, because society and the law will correct improper actions."
Are you worried since you also collected donations during the flood crisis?
"I decided to withdraw all cash from the account at once and made everything transparent. During delivery, photos were taken and receipts issued. I even asked my senior, Ohm (Ohm Cocktail), to help post bail. We put 2 million baht at each school to ensure funds were seen and used. Although I can’t confirm if the schools used it properly, I made sure they had the money."
Would you say it was transparent?
"Absolutely transparent. Krung Thai Bank has always been supportive. I had to close all transfers in and out of my account and withdrew everything at once. The total amount is documented on social media. We handled it properly."
Have you decided to stop accepting donations or charity help altogether?
"I think direct transfers are best. But when money is sent directly, you can’t always know what happens after. So I do what I can. As social beings, it’s natural to sympathize with others, but love yourself first. Take care of yourself and your family so you’re happy before helping others."
"Because at the end of the day, when we’re in trouble, the only one who can truly help is ourselves. So for those who want to do good, don’t lose faith. Keep going, but do it properly. Now it’s clearer how consequences follow, and society is more aware. It will be harder for those who aren’t transparent."
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