BANGKOK, May 4, 2025 — Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra returned to national television today with a new episode of “Empowering Thais with PM Paetongtarn,” offering Thai citizens comprehensive updates on the government’s recent actions and upcoming priorities after a month-long hiatus.
The program, which was temporarily suspended following the March earthquake, aired on multiple national networks this morning, addressing critical issues including disaster preparedness, economic challenges, and infrastructure development plans.
New Disaster Alert System Now Fully Operational
A key highlight of today’s broadcast was the Prime Minister’s announcement regarding the successful implementation of Thailand’s Cell Broadcast disaster alert system. Following the first nationwide test conducted on May 2, the system is now fully operational.
“After the tragic events of the March earthquake and the collapse of the State Audit Office building, improving our emergency response capabilities became an absolute priority,” Prime Minister Paetongtarn stated during the broadcast.
The new alert system represents a significant advancement in Thailand’s disaster management infrastructure, enabling authorities to issue immediate warnings to mobile phones in affected areas during emergencies.
Addressing Economic Challenges from US Tariffs
The Prime Minister also addressed Thailand’s response to recent U.S. tariff adjustments that have impacted the kingdom’s export sector.
“We have been actively engaged in discussions with our trade partners to mitigate these challenges,” Paetongtarn explained. “Additionally, we are strengthening regional cooperation within ASEAN to protect our shared economic interests in an increasingly complex global trade environment.”
Economic analysts at the National Economic and Social Development Council have projected that these collaborative efforts could help maintain Thailand’s export growth despite external pressures.
Community Development Initiatives Resume
The broadcast highlighted the return of the Small, Medium, Large (SML) Project, an initiative empowering local communities to propose and implement their own development plans with financial and technical support from the National Village and Urban Community Fund Office.
“Community-led development has always been at the heart of our governance philosophy,” the Prime Minister emphasized. “The SML Project puts decision-making power back where it belongs—in the hands of local residents who understand their needs best.”
Educational Opportunities Expanded
Students across Thailand received welcome news as the Prime Minister announced that applications are now open for the ODOS Summer Camp scholarship program. This initiative, coordinated by the Ministry of Education, aims to provide educational enrichment opportunities to talented students from diverse backgrounds.
Interested students and parents can find application details on the ministry’s official website.
Entertainment Complex to Boost Year-Round Tourism
Perhaps the most notable economic announcement came when Prime Minister Paetongtarn addressed plans for a proposed entertainment complex that would include legalized casinos.
“There will be no low season for Thai tourism once the government legalizes casinos as part of the proposed Entertainment Complex Bill,” the Prime Minister stated confidently.
Addressing potential concerns, Paetongtarn assured the public that the facilities would operate under strict international standards, with comprehensive background checks for both operators and patrons.
“These will not be venues for money laundering or criminal activities,” she emphasized. “All individuals involved will have their criminal records and assets thoroughly scrutinized.”
The entertainment complex project is expected to proceed without requiring public funding, instead relying on private investment to create jobs and boost tourism revenue.
Broadcast Schedule
Today’s episode of “Empowering Thais with PM Paetongtarn” aired on NBT 2HD and TV5 from 8:00 to 8:30 a.m., and on MCOT HD from 9:30 to 10:00 a.m. Additional broadcasts are scheduled throughout the day on the Public Relations Department’s nationwide network.
Government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke has announced that the program will continue to air on a regular schedule, providing Thai citizens with direct updates from the Prime Minister’s office on government initiatives and responses to national challenges.
For more information on government programs mentioned in today’s broadcast, visit the Official Thai Government Portal.
About The Author
Discover more from Faith & Freedom News - FFN
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
