Bangkok: "Thai Helps Thai Plus" is gaining momentum as a strategic tool for the government to boost its popularity, according to Associate Professor Dr. Sukhum Nuansakul, former Rector of Ramkhamhaeng University. The project, aimed at stimulating the economy and increasing public purchasing power, includes enhancements to the state welfare card and the 60:40 scheme, which recently closed registration with over 26 million people signed up.
According to Thai News Agency, Dr. Sukhum highlighted how the 60:40 project, an extension of the past "Half-Price" initiative, has garnered a positive public response. Over 25 million people registered for the benefit in a short period, reflecting the public's need for economic assistance to reduce living costs and stimulate daily spending.
"The number of registered people, over 25 million, is very large for a single project. It reflects that people still need economic assistance and see that projects like this can genuinely help them. Even their own children are registering to receive the benefits," Dr. Sukhum said.
Politically, the Bhumjaithai Party is expected to gain credit for this project, given its consistent role in advocating for such policies. The party's image of "keeping promises" aligns with the successful implementation of these economic measures, offering a significant political advantage.
"This aligns with the slogan 'say it, do it,' because once a promise is made during the election campaign, it can be realized today. The public will naturally remember that," Dr. Sukhum remarked.
The project is anticipated to have a broader economic impact, invigorating consumer spending, particularly at the community level, in small retailers and the grassroots economy. These groups stand to benefit directly from the government's stimulus measures.
"Everyone who exercises their right to vote should think of the government and Bhumjaithai Party. Politically, it's a success. As for stimulating the economy, we'll have to wait and see," Dr. Sukhum added.
He also suggested that the government might continue to expand current measures or introduce new policies to sustain economic momentum and further political popularity, particularly as the public continues to face economic challenges.
The "Thai Helps Thai Plus" measures are under close scrutiny as they may become pivotal in driving both economic and political momentum in the second half of the year.