Showing 1 - 10 of 96
Monitor the wallet scheme
Oped, Editorial, Published on 03/08/2024
» The wait is over. The Srettha government finally launched the long-awaited digital wallet scheme on Thursday. This costly cash handout is the flagship policy of the Pheu Thai Party from the 2023 general election. The scheme will put 450 billion baht of digital cash into the hands of over 40 million eligible recipients, with the hope that they will buy local goods, spurring grassroots trade and investment.
Debt woes far from over
News, Editorial, Published on 31/07/2024
» The news about a 72-year-old woman who was beaten up by debt collectors last week has cast doubts on the supposed successes of the government's campaign to combat loansharking.
Don't tamper with Social Security Fund
Oped, Editorial, Published on 16/07/2024
» The Srettha government is considering various measures to resuscitate the country's economy, including reducing financial contributions to the Social Security Fund (SSF) -- the state pension and welfare fund for millions of workers and retirees.
Real plan for GDP growth
News, Editorial, Published on 08/07/2024
» After facing criticism for neglecting local media and prioritising foreign outlets, Bank of Thailand governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput finally held a press conference to share his overview of Thailand's economic situation and the central bank's policy stance.
A turbulent time for govt
Oped, Editorial, Published on 06/06/2024
» Winning an election and forming a coalition is one thing; running a country, another. After nine months at Government House, the Srettha Thavisin government finds itself struggling to fulfil its campaign promises. Tough issues -- such as the charter rewrite, boosting tourism, the 10,000-baht digital wallet scheme and the sluggish economy -- remain a fierce challenge.
Leave no farmer behind
News, Editorial, Published on 03/06/2024
» Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin recently launched an initiative aimed at transforming Thailand, already a major food exporter, into a global agriculture hub. Such an ambition is not new for the government, but the plan faces numerous challenges.
Land reform dangers
News, Editorial, Published on 20/05/2024
» The recent decision by the cabinet to amend regulations to allow farmers to use state land beyond agricultural purposes has raised concerns about potential misuse and exploitation for commercial benefits.
Reshuffle needs work
Oped, Editorial, Published on 20/04/2024
» After seven months of mediocre performance, Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin is going to reshuffle his cabinet. Yet those who wish to see a total overhaul and the exit of underperforming ministers might be let down. On the face of it, the Srettha 2.0 cabinet will merely reflect internal promotions within the Pheu Thai Party and its power consolidation.
Wallet fog fails to lift
Oped, Editorial, Published on 19/04/2024
» The government's announcement on the details of its digital wallet scheme on April 10 was meant to boost the popularity of both the Srettha Thavisin administration, as well as the Pheu Thai Party.
Dying from debt
Oped, Editorial, Published on 13/04/2024
» The recent gruesome murder of a 10-year-old girl by her debt-ridden father in the northern province of Uttaradit raises doubts about the attempts of the Srettha Thavisin government to solve informal debt problems and related loopholes.