Thais Hopeful For Economic Stimulus Under Paetongtarn's Leadership

By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock and Wilawan Watcharasakwet

BANGKOK, Sept 11 (Bernama) -- The people of Thailand are hopeful that the new government under Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra will address urgent issues – including stimulating the economy and improving the cost of living.

The founder of the non-governmental organisation Sai Mai Tong Rot (Survive), Ekkapop Laungprasert, said the government's priority should be to drive the economy forward and create more opportunities for people to improve their standard of living.

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"We need to focus on unemployment, the issue of jobless citizens, and the population's per capita income, as these are critical for the economy.

"I also hope the government will prioritise economic recovery first, followed by addressing other social problems. I am confident in the new administration's ability to manage the economic situation," he told Bernama when contacted on Wednesday.

Paetongtarn, the youngest prime minister in Thailand’s history, is expected to deliver her policy statement in Parliament on Thursday, marking the official start of her administration.

Ekkapop said the government should be given ample time and opportunity to implement changes, as this is considered a government led by a new generation.

He urged all political parties to focus on constructive politics aimed at improving the economy and the well-being of the Thai people.

"If we can't immediately increase people's incomes, we should first reduce their expenses. Reducing costs such as utilities, water, electricity, and other daily expenses that the government can regulate is something that can be done quickly to lower the cost of living," he added.

Meanwhile, Thai Chamber of Commerce's chairman Sanan Angubolkul said the implementation of the 10,000 Baht digital wallet scheme is an urgent policy that needs immediate approval to alleviate the cost of living for vulnerable groups.

"Currently, there is little money circulating in the market. Injecting funds would boost confidence among the people and positively impact the economy," he said.

Sanan suggested that the government prioritise distributing the 10,000 Baht digital wallet to vulnerable groups, including the disabled and the poor.

He also expressed hope that the government would address the ongoing flood management issues in the country.

Last Saturday, Paetongtarn, in the first special cabinet meeting she chaired, reassured that her government would focus on stimulating the economy and improving healthcare to enhance the lives of its people over the next three years.

Paetongtarn said her administration will continue with the policies of her predecessor, Srettha Thavisin, particularly in areas such as economic stimulation, promoting tourism, supporting agricultural products, assisting vulnerable groups, addressing flood issues, helping affected communities, and accelerating government investment spending.

-- BERNAMA