NBT WORLD

The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Relief Operations Center has issued an urgent warning for heavy rainfall in five southern provinces from December 13 to 14. Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and Songkhla are identified as high-risk areas. Flash floods, runoff, and landslides are also a concern for Trang, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai, as the center's director, has directed full preparedness. Disaster response units have been deployed, with 44 teams operating in Region 11 provinces and 712 units mobilized in Region 12. Emergency plans are in place, and evacuation shelters are ready to assist displaced residents. The Meteorological Department forecasts rain to ease by December 18. However, water levels in major rivers like the Pattani, Saiburi, and Kolok are expected to peak between December 19 and 20. Pumping and drainage equipment has been installed to manage potential overflow and mitigate flood risks. Efforts to restore critical services are underway. Telecommunication systems and healthcare facilities, including 135 previously flooded locations, are now operational. Public health services have resumed across the affected areas. To address complaints about delays in financial relief, the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation is expediting compensation payments. Measures are being taken to improve accessibility and ensure prompt assistance for affected residents. #NBTWorld #SouthernRainfallAlert #FloodPreparedness #เตือนภัยฝนตกหนัก #น้ำท่วมภาคใต้ #แผนรับมือน้ำท่วม

Sasikarn Wattanachun, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced the launch of the "Khun Soo, Rao Chuay" (You Fight, We Help) initiative, designed to alleviate financial burdens for debtors struggling with repayments. In collaboration with the Ministry of Finance and the Bank of Thailand (BOT), the government aims to support borrowers in maintaining liquidity and preserving critical assets through debt restructuring measures that reduce installment burdens. While the program has seen a high volume of registrants, causing delays in hotline services at **1213 BOT** and registration systems, citizens can access the service 24/7. The registration process involves five straightforward steps: 1. Review the details: Visit [www.bot.or.th/khunsoo](http://www.bot.or.th/khunsoo) to check eligibility and program terms. 2. Verify your identity: Register via email or use the ThaiID app to scan a QR code for identity verification. 3. Submit personal information: Fill in details such as name, ID number, phone number, and email. 4. Request debt restructuring: Select the financial service provider and the specific product you wish to include in the program. Multiple providers or products can be added. 5. Confirm registration: Retain the reference number displayed after submission for status tracking. According to Sasikarn, the initiative aims to help borrowers manage debts sustainably, offering a pathway to improve quality of life and economic recovery nationwide. Registration is open until February 28, 2025. All eligible applicants registering within the period will receive equal consideration. Financial institutions will begin contacting registrants starting January 2, 2025. Applicants can monitor their application status on the program website. For inquiries, the Bank of Thailand's 1213 hotline is available. #NBTWorld #DebtReliefProgram #KhunSooRaoChuay #คุณสู้เราช่วย #ลดภาระหนี้ #ฟื้นฟูเศรษฐกิจ

Thailand has commemorated the 2024 Miss Genevieve Caulfield Memorial Day with a focus on advancing education and quality of life for the visually impaired. This year’s theme was “85 Years of Education for the Blind in Thailand: A Strong Foundation for Advancing the Quality of Life for Persons with Disabilities.” The event featured scholarship awards for students from various regions attending the Bangkok School for the Blind. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, presided over the ceremony and delivered a keynote address. Minister Varawut expressed gratitude for the contributions of individuals with disabilities, emphasizing their potential to enrich society. He highlighted the importance of inclusivity across all demographics, particularly seniors and persons with disabilities, as Thailand faces an aging population. The minister underscored his ministry’s role as a leader in employing persons with disabilities under legal frameworks. He advocated for employment opportunities based on talent, rather than limitations. Minister Varawut noted the unique skills many individuals with disabilities bring, such as heightened auditory abilities among the visually impaired. He also emphasized the ministry’s shift from providing welfare to fostering empowerment. The goal is to unlock the potential of all groups, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society and the economy. Efforts to enhance independence include promoting universal design and fostering collaboration between government agencies and private enterprises. A key initiative highlighted at the event was the development of an app for visually impaired individuals. The app, funded by the Promotion and Development of Life Quality for Persons with Disabilities Fund, allows users to enjoy movies with audio descriptions. This innovation is a significant step toward greater inclusivity and improving quality of life for persons with disabilities. The event concluded with Minister Varawut reaffirming Thailand’s commitment to the legacy of Miss Genevieve Caulfield, a pioneer in advocating for the blind.

Southern Thailand is bracing for heavy rainfall, flash floods, and potential landslides. Forecasts predict over 300 mm of rain in some areas from now until Monday. Provinces at risk include Chumphon, Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Songkhla, Phatthalung, Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat. The highest risks are in Surat Thani and Nakhon Si Thammarat. Sasikarn Wattanachun, Deputy Government Spokesperson, announced that Phumtham Wechayachai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense, is coordinating relief efforts. As Director of the Flood, Storm, and Landslide Relief Operations Center, he has instructed agencies to prepare for the impacts. Relief teams are monitoring water levels, mobilizing resources, and maintaining 24-hour readiness to assist affected residents. Special measures are being taken to manage water levels at critical reservoirs. At Bang Lang (บางลาง) Dam in Yala, the current water level is 1.21 billion cubic meters. The inflow is 45.89 million cubic meters per day, while the outflow stands at 18 million cubic meters. With 18.1% of capacity still available, controlled water releases will be implemented if levels approach the Flood Control Rule Curve. Residents downstream will be notified at least one day in advance of any adjustments to minimize disruptions. Local agencies have been directed to verify data on affected households and report accurate information to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation. Verified households will receive compensation payments of 9,000 baht per household. Payments will be facilitated through the Government Savings Bank. Flood-affected residents can file claims at local administrative offices or register online via the website “flood67.disaster.go.th.” Those who have not linked their national ID numbers to bank accounts via PromptPay are encouraged to complete the registration process at their banks. This step will help expedite financial assistance. #NBTWorld #SouthernThailandFloods #DisasterRelief #NBTWorld #น้ำท่วมภาคใต้ #ช่วยเหลือผู้ประสบภัย #เตือนภัยน้ำท่วม

The Thailand Friendly Design Expo 2024 has opened its doors, showcasing advancements in universal design, health innovations, and inclusive tourism. This annual event highlights products and services aimed at enhancing accessibility and promoting greater independence for the elderly and persons with disabilities. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, officially inaugurated the expo, which is now in its 8th year. The event also features the 2nd Friendly Design Hotels, MICE, and Tourism for All International Conference (FTIC), focusing on accessible infrastructure within the hospitality and tourism sectors to foster inclusivity. Visitors can explore a wide variety of innovations, including mobility aids, home technologies, and tools designed to improve daily living. The expo also highlights handcrafted items created by individuals with disabilities and senior citizens, as well as health-related products and services. Minister Varawut reaffirmed the ministry's support for the event, emphasizing its role in closing accessibility gaps through technological advancements. He noted the significance of such initiatives in empowering persons with disabilities and addressing the needs of Thailand's aging population. The public is encouraged to visit the expo, which runs until tomorrow (Dec 15th) at Hall 101 of the Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Center. Supporting products crafted by individuals with disabilities and the elderly is a key way to contribute to this inclusive effort. #NBTWorld #FriendlyDesignExpo #InclusiveInnovationThailand #NBTWorld #มหกรรมFriendlyDesign #นวัตกรรมเพื่อทุกคน #การออกแบบเพื่อความเท่าเทียม

Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra is set to visit Malaysia from Sunday to Monday. She will lead a high-level delegation to Kuala Lumpur for the 7th Annual Consultation under the theme “Peace and Shared Prosperity.” The visit aims to strengthen bilateral cooperation between the two nations. The Prime Minister will be joined by key cabinet members, including Deputy Prime Ministers Suriya Jungrungreangkit and Anutin Charnvirakul. Other participants include officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Tourism and Sports, Agriculture and Cooperatives, and Culture. Discussions will focus on boosting trade, enhancing economic partnerships, and advancing infrastructure development. A key goal of the talks is to achieve 30 billion dollars in bilateral trade by 2027. The delegation will depart Bangkok on Sunday at 2 PM and is expected to arrive in Malaysia after a two-hour flight. Official events will commence the following day at Perdana Putra -- Malaysia’s Government House -- in Putrajaya. The visit will begin with a welcoming ceremony, followed by the Annual Consultation. During the visit, leaders will witness the signing of agreements and hold a joint press conference. They will also attend an official luncheon. The Thai delegation is scheduled to return to Bangkok later on Monday, with an estimated arrival time of 4:30 PM. The visit is expected to further strengthen ties between Thailand and Malaysia and foster shared economic growth. #NBTWorld #ThailandMalaysiaRelations #AnnualConsultation2024 #NBTWorld #ไทยมาเลเซียสัมพันธ์ #หารือประจำปี #ความร่วมมือเศรษฐกิจ

S&P Global Ratings has reaffirmed Thailand’s sovereign credit rating at BBB+ with a stable outlook. The agency forecasts steady economic growth for the country, expecting GDP to rise from 1.9% in 2023 to 2.8% in 2024, and 3.1% in 2025. This growth will be driven by ongoing economic stimulus measures and a strong recovery in the tourism sector. Over the 2024–2027 period, Thailand's real GDP growth is projected to average 3.0%. Pachara Anantasilp, Director-General of the Public Debt Management Office, highlighted key factors contributing to the positive outlook. S&P expects the government to continue prioritizing investments that align with national strategies. These include the development of the Eastern Economic Corridor and large-scale transportation infrastructure projects. Investments by state enterprises and public-private partnerships are also expected to drive these initiatives forward. The net government debt-to-GDP ratio is projected to rise by 3.3% in 2025. This increase is partly attributed to economic stimulus measures such as the 2024 Economic Stimulus Program, which includes 10,000-baht cash handouts for eligible citizens. From 2024 to 2027, Thailand’s current account surplus is expected to average 2.3%. This will be supported by a recovery in the export sector and a revitalized tourism industry. Between January and October 2024, international tourist arrivals surged to 28.8 million, marking a 29.3% increase compared to the same period last year. S&P will closely monitor Thailand’s economic growth relative to countries with similar income levels. The agency also noted the importance of domestic political stability. Consistent economic policies and stable political conditions could pave the way for an upgrade in Thailand’s credit rating to A-, as they would enable more effective economic policymaking. #NBTWorld #ThailandCreditRating #EconomicGrowthThailand #NBTWorld #เครดิตไทยBBB+ #เศรษฐกิจไทยฟื้นตัว #การเติบโตทางเศรษฐกิจ #ThailandS&PRatings

Thailand’s push to strengthen economic ties with Australia took center stage during a high-level visit to Adelaide, South Australia. Maris Sangiampongsa, Thailand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with representatives from eight major Australian corporations. These include Linfox, a leading logistics provider, Callington Group, specializing in chemicals, aviation, aerospace, and medical devices; and NextDC, a data center company. The Thai Foreign Affairs Minister also engaged with Australian investment promotion agencies such as Export Finance Australia (EFA) to explore opportunities for expanding Australian investments in Thailand. Minister Marris emphasized Thailand’s readiness to serve as a production base, leveraging Australian technology to add value across industries. He highlighted the Thai government’s commitment to bilateral cooperation in key areas such as food security, energy security, and human security—topics discussed earlier with Penny Wong, Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, at the Thailand-Australia Biennial Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. Maris underscored Thailand’s strategic advantages, including its connectivity to ASEAN, China, Japan, and South Korea, and its participation in initiatives like the Greater Mekong Subregion Economic Cooperation program, and the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC), which together represent a market of over 4 billion consumers. He affirmed Thailand’s potential as a logistics hub and its willingness to partner with Australian firms in value chain integration, focusing on knowledge and technology development, production, and targeting regional markets such as ASEAN and BIMSTEC. Australian corporations praised Thailand’s policies and leadership, particularly its membership in BRICS and participation in OECD initiatives. These alignments enhance Thailand’s role in global economic cooperation and strengthen its position among emerging economies. #NBTWorld #ThailandAustraliaTrade #EconomicPartnership #NBTWorld

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Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has highlighted her administration’s achievements during its first 90 days in office and unveiled her vision under the campaign “2025 A Real Opportunity for Thailand.” Prime Minister Paetongtarn outlined key initiatives to address urgent environmental and infrastructure challenges. Water management remains a top priority, with plans to tackle flooding and drought through public-private collaborations for canal dredging and large-scale floodway projects. Additionally, the government is focused on reducing air pollution, setting targets to lower PM 2.5 levels annually. Efforts include stricter anti-burning laws, negotiations to curb transboundary haze, and the introduction of the Clean Air Act. The government is committed to reducing costs for citizens by dismantling monopolies in key sectors like agriculture and energy. Reforms will allow farmers to directly export rice and legal changes will reduce energy prices. Public transportation will also be improved with a proposed 20-baht rail mass transit system for the Bangkok Metropolitan Area. Debt relief efforts, including a three-year moratorium on certain loans and forgiveness for debts under 5,000 baht, will further assist citizens. A five-billion-baht fund will also be allocated to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The formalization of the informal economic sector is also expected to generate significant state revenue and improve safety. Thailand’s digital transformation is also proceeding apace through the Digital Wallet Scheme, which continues to drive economic recovery. Cash distribution programs will support four million seniors and later extend to the general population. Furthermore, the government seeks to establish Thailand as a regional hub for artificial intelligence, supported by over one trillion baht in foreign investments for data centers and advanced infrastructure. #NBTWorld #EmpoweringThais2025 #90DaysAchievements

Thailand is preparing for increased rainfall from now to December 16th. The heavy rain is driven by a strengthening northeast monsoon and a low-pressure system over the Gulf of Thailand. Several southern provinces are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall, raising serious concerns about flooding and landslides. Initial impacts are forecast for Surat Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Phatthalung, and nearby areas. The Flood, Storm, and Landslide Relief Operations Center has instructed the Royal Irrigation Department to clear waterways to help reduce the risk of flooding. Landslide warnings have been issued for high-risk areas, including Phunphin District in Surat Thani and several districts in Pattani. Nakhon Si Thammarat remains heavily affected by flooding. Emergency teams are working to assist residents by deploying water pumps and other equipment. In areas where floodwaters have receded, recovery efforts are underway. Repair teams from the Department of Skill Development are helping restore homes, motorcycles, and electrical appliances. The Ministry of Labor is seeking budget support to launch job programs for people affected by the disaster. Residents relocating livestock to roadways are being urged to coordinate with local officials to ensure the safety for both animals and road users. Rainfall is expected to spread to additional provinces in the coming days. These include Prachuap Khiri Khan, Chumphon, and Phuket. Authorities are staying vigilant to manage potential flooding and landslides during this period. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to minimizing the disaster’s impact and expediting recovery efforts for affected communities. #NBTWorld #SouthernThailandFloods #DisasterPreparedness #น้ำท่วมภาคใต้ #เตือนภัยน้ำท่วม #ฟื้นฟูชุมชน

The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) has ramped up relief efforts in northern Thailand following severe flood damage. Vulnerable communities have been particularly hard hit. The ministry is focusing on immediate aid and long-term recovery to help residents rebuild their lives. Minister Varawut Silpa-archa reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to comprehensive flood relief, with Provincial MSDHS officials leading efforts on the ground. In collaboration with the Community Organizations Development Institute (CODI), local groups in Chiang Rai, and disaster networks, the MSDHS has set up a Disaster Management Command Center. The center is coordinating resources, personnel, and funding to aid recovery. Key initiatives include community kitchens, survival kits, and housing reconstruction. Damage assessments are being compiled into a regional database to streamline operations. Minister Varawut also announced new funding for housing recovery. The Subcommittee on Secure Housing in Urban and Rural Areas has approved a budget of 30.11 million baht for a disaster housing reconstruction project in Chiang Rai. The funds will support the final phase of repairs for 875 households across three districts. Recognizing the rising risks from natural disasters, the minister stressed the importance of preparedness. He and his team will visit Lampang and Chiang Mai later this week. During the visit, they will conduct a workshop on disaster preparedness tailored to the northern region. The visit will also include policy briefings. These will focus on improving the operations of Centers for Managing Vulnerable Groups in Disasters across 14 northern provinces. These centers play a vital role in supporting at-risk populations during emergencies. #NBTWorld #NorthernThailandFloodRelief #DisasterRecoveryEfforts #NBTWorld #น้ำท่วมภาคเหนือ #ฟื้นฟูเยียวยา #ช่วยเหลือผู้เปราะบาง