Prime Minister Urges Extension of ‘Thai Helps Thai Plus’ Amid Energy Crisis

Bangkok: Supajee Suthamphan has revealed that the Prime Minister has instructed Ekniti Nitithanprapha to explore avenues to extend the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" program for an additional two months. According to Thai News Agency, Supajee emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing that Thailand is still reeling from an energy crisis, prompting immediate measures rather than waiting until the end of the year. The initiative is not solely focused on the 60:40 handout scheme. As the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Supajee addressed the ongoing geopolitical tensions impacting the economy, notably the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the surge in oil prices. She explained that the Prime Minister is cognizant of the domestic economic challenges and has tasked Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapha, with assessing the feasibility of extending the project further. When questioned about the potential duration of the extension, Supajee indicated it would be for two m ore months, as per the Prime Minister's directive. She refrained from confirming whether the financial support would remain at 1,000 baht per month, stating that Ekniti would provide further details. Supajee mentioned the possibility of utilizing savings to facilitate support over the next two months. Addressing inquiries about funding sources, Supajee noted the availability of various financial reserves, leaving the decision to Ekniti on which fund to draw from. On measures to tackle the rising oil prices, Supajee referenced a prior large-scale rehearsal conducted in March, suggesting a similar response strategy. She mentioned a recent meeting with Deputy Prime Ministers Ekniti and Pakorn Nilapraphan, alongside Ministry of Energy representatives, to finalize and announce the measures shortly, as they are to be implemented without delay. Supajee acknowledged that economic stimulus efforts would extend beyond the "Thai Helps Thai Plus" initiative, incorporating additional strategies due to the potential seve rity of the current crisis compared to previous challenges, compounded by the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. A comprehensive approach will be adopted to address these issues.