On August 30, 2025, a funeral rite was held at Wat Samian Nari, Chatuchak District, Bangkok, for Mr. Charan Pongchin, advisor to Matichon Public Company Limited, and a senior journalist who was known by the pen names “Plu Namkhaeng” (Ice Firecracker) and “Khun Or.” He passed away on August 29, 2025, at the age of 71. The event was held peacefully, with Matichon Public Company Limited and Gulf Development Public Company Limited (SET: GULF) as co-hosts.
From 5:00 PM onwards, many dignitaries arrived to pay their respects, including:
- Dr. Thaksin Shinawatra, former Prime Minister
- Prof. Dr. Surakiart Sathirathai, former Deputy Prime Minister
- Mr. Jakkapong Sangmanee, Advisor to the Prime Minister
- Mrs. Nalinee Ratanavadi, spouse of Mr. Sarath Ratanavadee, CEO of GULF
- Miss Kanokphan Hetrakul, pioneer of “Yakult” cultured milk
Executives from the Matichon Group were also in attendance, such as:
- Mr. Khanchai Boonpan, Chairman
- Mr. Worasak Prayoonsook, Vice Chairman and Editor of Prachachat Business
- Mr. Narit Sektheera, Editor of Matichon
- Mr. Suriwong Aurepatipan, Vice Chairman and Editor of Khao Sod
- And other executives and personnel from the group.
Other notable attendees included:
- Mr. Chanchai Sanguanwong, Director of Kaohoon newspaper
- Dr. Rewat Wisarutvech, former Director-General of the Department of Medical Services
- Mr. Supap Khlieokachai, senior media professional
- Mr. Damrit Wiriyakul, Regional News Editor of Thairath newspaper
- Mr. Kitti Singhapat, famous host of “Khao Sam Mit” (3-Dimensional News)
- Mr. Chaturong Suk-ied, famous media professional
- Mr. Charun Homtientong, former President of the Publishers and Booksellers Association of Thailand
- Mr. Danai Ekamahasawat, also known as “Mha Gae” from the “Jor Luek Thua Thai” program
- Mr. Sorakol Adulyanon, famous columnist
- Mrs. Kornnisa Kulabwan, from Snow Beer Restaurant
The funeral rites for Mr. Charan Pongchin will be held from August 29 to September 3, 2025, at Pavilion 11, Wat Samian Nari, Chatuchak, Bangkok. The chanting ceremony will take place daily from August 30 to September 2 at 6:00 PM. On September 3, there will be a ceremony to offer meals to the monks at 11:00 AM, followed by a body procession at 4:00 PM and a cremation ceremony at 5:00 PM.
Charan was a native of Rattaphum District, Songkhla Province, born on June 21, 1955. He graduated from Songkhla Teachers’ College before moving to Bangkok to start his career as a journalist, specializing in political reporting.
He joined Matichon in 1985, where he was entrusted by Matichon Group Chairman Khanchai Boonpan and senior journalist Vibha Sukkij to write a society column, which became well-known for his unique writing style. Upon his retirement, the company appointed him as an advisor, a role he maintained until his passing.
Charan was known for his courteous, lively, and professional demeanor. He formed a wide circle of friends across various sectors, including politics and business. He was recognized for his extensive professional and social experience, and had been in good health throughout his life. His sudden passing, without any prior warnings or signs, shocked those who knew him.
