Good evening, dear Thai citizens.

The annual Thai New Year, known as the Songkran Festival, has just ended. I believe many of you went back to your hometowns and gathered with your family and friends. During the past week, 68 fishermen have been rescued. They returned home on April 8th, just in time for Thai Family’s Day. Every returnee will be assisted and compensated. The state will provide health checkups and other necessities as well as get them home to their families safely. The Social Development and Human Security Ministry will integrate cooperation with other responsible units to assist and rescue those who have fallen victim to human trafficking, which is a crime against humanity. There are still a lot of people who have been victims of such crimes. Authorities need to prevent these people from being abused by human trafficking rings. Thank you to all administrative officers, local authorities, village heads, volunteers, and the military that have been providing safety for commuters during the Songkran Festival.

I’d like to thank everyone for helping to preserve the beauty of Thai culture and traditions during the Songkran Festival. Thank you for dressing respectfully and for celebrating the festival in a safe way and without alcohol. Alcohol is the number one cause for both brawls and road accidents. In the past, policies and laws pertaining to alcohol were not strictly enforced, causing many teenagers to ignore some important cultural traditions. Should this continue, there may be nothing left that we can pride ourselves on. Celebrations during festivals must be boundaries. As such, government had advocated 8 suggestions to celebrate the festival. Those suggestions have helped minimize the number of accidents as well as highlight our beautiful culture. I don’t think wearing lewd garments in public is appropriate. Some people have said the reason why this year’s Songkran is not as joyful as other years is because of the 8 suggestions. Well, decide for yourselves whether this is really the case and consider the importance of preserving Thailand’s genuine cultural traditions as our pride.

Along with Thailand’s natural beauty and extraordinary hospitality of the Thai people, foreign visitors also want to see the customs, culture, and traditions of Thailand. All of these attract visitors around the world to come and study Thailand. A concrete example is that Thailand has seen more than a 20 percent increases in the number of foreign tourists in the first quarter of this year and more than 30 percent during Songkran. The increase was greatly due to the lack of conflict and a secure environment, as well as the hospitality of the Thai people who made foreigners feel that they would be safe while staying in Thailand. We would like to invite all foreigners to come back next year. We will celebrate it in an innovative Thai traditional way. This year is marked as the year of Thai tourism. Thai people need to promote what we have to offer.

In strengthening social consciousness, the “12 Core Values” can play an important role. There are several matters that will take time and cooperation from all citizens, such as national reform and etc. Currently, Thailand is more peaceful, which allows a stable government to work effectively, unlike the past when governments were usually driven by vested personal interests, rather than the national interest. I would like all Thai citizens from all regions to constructively work together so that we can use this opportunity to really progress Thailand. Although much has been achieved in national administration, the reform process has just started. There are still a lot of things that need to be done in this field. We must work together to achieve national reform and never fall back into the same political problems.

I would like to mention a person, many of you know him as the “Penguin Man”, who refuses to be let down by hardship in life and always thinks positive. He has also been trying to make Thailand a better place to live despite his physical limitations.

His name is “Ekachai Wannakaew”. Although he is missing both of his arms, he has the ability to create beautiful works of art. Three years ago, he received a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts from Rajamangala University of Technology Rattanakosin. Since then, he has been drawing and selling his artworks, helping his mother get out of debt, buying a new house, and giving his mother a monthly allowance.

Mr Ekachai realizes that not everyone will have the same opportunities in life, but one should nonetheless take the opportunity to do good for society the best way they can. If each one of us does one little thing for the society, that contribution will make our nation grow. Let me ask you this. Have you done anything good for your country?

I only wish to remind you of this principle and raise your awareness. I want you to look at yourself and ask “have I contributed enough for the nation and others?” This especially goes for those who have discredited your own country, and are still trying to stir conflict and cause confusion. I’m calling on this group of people to use their capability in a more constructive manner, make our country grow, take part in reform, and cooperate instead of remaining as enemies. We are all Thai people. Please cooperate with officials, cease from conflicting and really work together for national reform. Moving Thailand forward will require rules, but if no one respects the laws and regulations then true progress will not be achieved. No matter how great the constitution is written, the country will fail if the people don’t respect it. Our neighboring countries and other nations around the world will not wait for us to catch up. We could lose our chances of becoming an important player in global economics and politics.

I would like to thank the Manoramer Group for creating a video clip on March 30th, 2015. The group created this clip without seeking any profit. The clip was made to encourage all Thais to do good things and contribute to our community in a way each individual knows best.

As for progress in national administration, earlier this morning, the government announced its 6-month work performance in accordance with our national development policies in the 11 areas which were presented to the National Legislative Assembly (NLA) on Friday, 12 Sept 2014. As you can see, the government has not only prioritized its efforts on creating unity and reconciliation, but also on dealing with economic uncertainties brought on by the world economic slump. Thailand hadn’t really prepared itself for this global economic instability. We need to make amendments so that we can ensure sustainable growth.

Before the NCPO and this government took charge of national administration, the economy posted negative numbers and now the global economy has started to slowdown. But today are numbers are improving, as the country enjoyed a 0.6 percent economic growth in the third quarter of 2014 (Jul-Sept) while in the fourth quarter (Oct-Dec), the Thai economic growth moved to 2.3 percent. The recovery was due to the government’s policies to stimulate domestic consumption and bolster investments. The Consumer Confidence Index (CCI) has also been rising. According the UTCC’s economic and business forecasting centre, the average CCIs from Sept 2014 to March 2015 stood at 79.9, higher than the average recorded between Jan 2014 and May 2014, which stood at 69.7.

As for economic stability in the first two months of 2015 (Jan-Feb), Thailand saw surpluses in trade and service sectors, accounting for 3.96 billion and 2.54 billion baht respectively. Thailand’s balance of payments was recorded at positive 2.889 billion baht. This may have caused a little fluctuation in the Thai currency. But please rest assured that the central bank is closely monitoring the situation. As for the country’s financial status, the government, during the first six months of 2014-2015 fiscal year, brought in 973.952 billion baht, representing a 3.5 percent increase. Although the overall economy looks to be recovering, there still remain some problems that are afflicting farmers, low-income earners, and SMEs. I can assure you that the government does not take you for granted. We never stop thinking about how we can help you. How can we tackle low prices of crops? It is difficult when the supply is high and the price is low. We are looking for measures to help you such as distributing products to community markets or turning them into processed goods. The process will take time. At least 1-2 years is required for a factory to be built. The government has prepared measures and implemented assistance policies, injecting money into various projects with an aim to boost the local economy. The Interior Ministry and the Transport Ministry are joining hands to construct roads in rural areas. The Agriculture Ministry is responsible for improving irrigation systems. The Finance Ministry will oversee issuance of financial loans to SMEs whose liquidity is low. The government will help small businesses. We will consult with commercial and government banks to find measures for SMEs.

In reference to the preparations for sustainable development, we have to regulate new policies and rewrite our Constitution that will be most suitable for Thailand and effectively resolve our problems. I think there are still a number of issues that need to be brought to attention. We are working in full effort to help you. Right now, I do believe we are walking in the right path. Everyone needs to partake in the process in accordance with the country’s roadmap, which will be implemented along with the establishment of a strong and firm foundation in every dimension. During the past 6 months, the government has been working according to the roadmap and making sure that Thailand is moving towards stability, prosperity, and sustainability.

This week, I would like to inform you of some progress as follows. In terms of agriculture, the government attaches great significance to this sector as we are an agricultural country. However, this segment faces many problems including poverty, decreasing prices of agricultural produce, lack of education, drought, and landlessness. The government will address all issues in this sector.

Agricultural zoning can be applied in crop planting, cattle ranching, and fishing through the adoption of MRCF System. M stands for “mapping” which includes landscape mapping and database forming. R stands for “remote sensing” which is an acquisition of information from distance. C stands for “community participation” which is to get public involved in the process by setting up 882 learning centers in all agricultural communities. And F stands for “specific field service” which focuses on specific products each community is specialized in. You need to make sure you have the market to support what you are producing.

In terms of business matching, the government will help build business connections and turn local communities into tourist destinations for OTOP products. There will be more than 8,000 community markets, hoping to remove middlemen, improving abilities of the farmers, and forging ahead with establishments of cooperatives and farmers’ networks.

As for water management, the government has been sticking to its 10-year plan (2015-2026) which is expected to improve the country’s irrigation in an integrated and sustainable way. It addresses the problem of water shortages and alleviates impacts of drought. The plan comprises improving 22 water basins, increasing capacity of 5 major dams and 4 waterways, restoring of watersheds, preventing coastal erosion, and setting up flood prevention centers. The plan will yield concrete results by the end of 2015.

The plan to improve irrigation systems for production consists of renovating the old irrigation system, which supplies 35 billion rai of farmland, building new water ways that supply 1.6 million rai of farmland, restoring 2,000 water resources and 50,000 reservoirs which include community reservoirs and underground water system, hoping to cover 200,000 rai.

The plan to improve irrigation for consumption consists of improving irrigation in 2,310 villages, increasing productivity of water supply in rural areas, and supplying underground water to 700 schools and communities.

The aforementioned water management plan has been highly praised by the United Nations. The UN also complimented us for our efforts on the World Water Day. The UN was satisfied with Thailand’s water management plan which allows the public to effectively access water resources. Many countries around the world don’t have access to water resources like we do. Thailand now has a concrete and effective water plan. They want us to be the role model in terms of preparation for future water shortages. Not only does the plan resolve existing drought problems, it also prepares Thailand for future global water shortages. The plan is also a model initiative for other countries in this region, ensuring stability of Thai communities and giving equal access to water resources. His Majesty the King has always been concerned about this issue. His Majesty said many times before that we would run out of water as our population increased. Water is essential in agriculture. Everything is interconnected and must be addressed at the same time. The most important factor in agriculture is production cost reduction. Cost reduction must be achieved by this harvest season. Cooperatives must be responsible for this task. They will be given tools, equipment fertilizers, and other necessities to help local farmers lower their costs. Cooperatives in each community must be strong. I urge that all farmers register with cooperatives in their respective areas, so that we can assist you according to your needs. Those who are desperate will be helped first. We will create stability in the community level. Everyone will have equal access to water.

As for our transport infrastructure, people will be able to commute within and between cities; agricultural and industrial goods will be transported within and between the capital, important cities, seaports, and border provinces. Furthermore, tourists will be able to travel within and between Thailand and other countries. The government has outlined a 7-year transportation plan (2015-2022). We will seek cooperation from the private sector as well as investors from foreign countries. I would like to inform you of what we can expect to happen within this year or in the near future.

1) Development of rail networks between cities. There will be procurement of 489 NGV-driven vehicles out of 3,183 units in total in the month of July.

2) Construction of 3 motorways comprising Bang Pa In – Nakhon Ratchasima (196 km), Bang Yai – Kanchanaburi (96 km), and Pattaya - Map Ta Phut (32 km). The three routes are now being studied and assessed before the implementation in 2019.

3) 10 electric rail routes (464 km) in Bangkok and vicinity. The Blue Line running east is now opened for service. The Purple Line extension running north will be ready next year. The Blue Line linking west and the Green Line linking south are under construction and will be ready in 2020. The other six lines will soon be constructed and will be ready for use in 2020 as well.

4) Six dual-track railways (903 km) under the urgent plan include Chachoengsao - Khlong 19 - Kaeng Khoi (106 km), Map Kabao - Chira Road (132 km), Chira Road – Khon Kaen (185 km), Lop Buri - Paknam Pho (148 km), Prachuap Khiri Khan – Chumphon (167 km), and Nakhon Pathom – Hua Hin (165 km). All of the projects will commence this year and will complete by 2018.

5) Improving water transport along the Chao Phraya River will help accommodate up to 200,000 passengers per day. The waterborne public transport system will be uplifted. 19 berths will be turned into stations.

In addition, the government has other mega projects which are 1) Pak Bara Deep Sea Port Project in Satun Province (I ask that conflicts in this area be abated. The government will help those affected by this project. This port will act as Thailand’s gateway to the Andaman Sea linking Europe, the Middle East and Africa), 2) Seaport A Development Project, 3) Laem Chabang Seaport Project, 4) Phase 2 Extension of Suvarnabhumi International Airport, escalating its capacity to accommodate 30 million passengers a year, 5) the Extension plan for Phuket International Airport, increasing its capacity to accommodate 12.5 million passengers annually, and 6) a project to turn U-Tapao Airport into the country’s third international airport. On top of that, Thailand is cooperating with China and Japan in terms of rail development

All of the aforementioned projects are considered the country’s arteries that nourish domestic and international economies. The government is forging ahead with all efforts to make these projects come to realization. We must inform the public of what we are going to do, and not let the people know afterwards. We will not just do things without your consent or understanding. The government will enhance the competitiveness of Thailand, making it the region’s economic hub as well as outstanding in the global stage.

The establishment of the “One Stop Service” centers seems to be a major overhaul of the government’s service. Such a move eliminates business obstacles, corruption, and bribery. This must be prevented at all costs. The centers provide useful information and eases business transactions for investors and entrepreneurs. Many people say they still do not have enough information on these, so once again, here is where and how you can seek assistance.

1) Investors can seek assistance from the “One Start One Stop Investment Center”. The center was launched by 20 business and investment related agencies. It offers information and advice on business in all aspects such as licensing, investment promotion programs, business registration, and migrant worker registration. We will inform you again once everything is ready.

2) “One-stop Service Center for Visas and Work Permits” offers various services such as visa extension, work permit application, and work permit extension. Representatives from related agencies including the Board of Investments, the Immigration Bureau and the Ministry of Labor will be stationed at the center.

3) Economic and investment centers will be established in 6 locations which are Chiang Mai, Nakhon Ratchasima, Khon Kaen, Chonburi, Songkhla, and Surat Thani. These centers give out information and accept petitions and requests.

All of what I said is just a part of what the government and the NCPO are trying to initiate in order to make Thailand a stronger country in every aspect. I want to thank you everyone and wish that the next administration would carry on this task. Everyone must help to protect the country’s interests and together achieve what we were set out to achieve.

There is one more thing I would like to share with you today. I am not reproaching or accusing anyone here. I read an article in a paper the other day. I don’t know what you think of this article. It says Thais tend to have some particular bad habits. However, this only applies to a small group of people, not the majority. First, the article says one of these habits is passing judgment without acquiring enough information or detail and then speaking without thinking. Let’s take taxes for example. Many people have criticized the imposition of taxes while ignoring its necessity. How can the country develop without an effective taxation system? When the issue was first reported in the media with some biases, the government got denounced before even considering the reasons. The second trait mentioned was not considering about the good of the whole of society, especially in the case of politicians who only look to expand their voting bases or verbally attack their rivals. These politicians never put people’s interest first. They only want to exploit their opportunities. They will use words that really hurt their opponents, even in their own fellow politicians. When the government is trying to help the poor, these politicians will say the government is taking advantage of the poor, imposing unreasonably high taxes. The current government has not done this at all.

If the country were to move forward, these 2 habits have to be reformed first, the habit of not studying anything or paying attention to detail but instead being judgmental, and the habit of not having a social conscience or thinking about the common good.

Thai society is obsessed with verbal conflict, slinging rhetoric and slander rather than facts or giving people the benefit of the doubt.

The country needs revenue to provide services for the people, aid the impoverished, build a stronger society, support those in need, reduce disparities and strive for justice for all people. But this act has been criticized as a burden on the middle class and over taxation. However, do these objections even take account of how this taxation process could work and who may be affected?  The criticisms occur before seeking out the facts and without understanding the importance of giving back to society, even refusing to make sacrifices for the public.

Although the current government did not come from an election, it still asks for everyone to cooperate in order to solve our common problems. Please refrain from deliberately creating confusion and misunderstanding and think about the consequences of your actions.

Taxation does not only concern individuals but the nation as a whole. Of course many Thai people do not support taxes, but compare it to policies like the first car and rice pledging schemes which benefit the individual rather than the whole of society. Some have praised these polices, but look how much damage they have caused for the whole country.  The rhetoric, when used by unscrupulous politicians, can cause huge damage. Please stop phrases that will gain you popularity but damage the country. These people will seek to exploit the poor and control the media. I cannot do that. I only think about what is best for the majority. Don’t come up with phrases like “the poor shall rise”, “prices of agricultural produce will be guaranteed”, or “you will be rebated for your first-car purchase”. All of these policies only hurt our country. You cannot expect car buyers to pay monthly installments when you have not done anything to ensure their monthly income. The demand will not meet the true supply. This is why this policy failed. Car factories were built following the scheme, but now, these factories have to be shut down because of artificial demand. What happens now when these buyers are unable to pay off their debts? What will the government do after the 100,000 baht rebates have been reimbursed? Others might say that the money goes back to the people. But let me ask you this. How much do you think went back to the people?

No system will create reconciliation and no system will make a country thrive if the people are not willing to make changes and develop. People need to change their behaviors. They must not fail to acquire knowledge before making decisions and they must always think about the public interest. The government will utilize what it has to make sure positive changes are made and so that all Thais can reconcile.  But the public also needs to help us prove what is true and what is false. Go see for yourself what I have done for you. What is urgent and what is not? Everything cannot be solved at the same time, given that many problems are deep-rooted and have been accumulated over the years. The government will do its best for this nation and its people.

We should all cooperate and help each other - all parties, be they the government, civil servants, and the public. The matters of rights, responsibility, rule of law, ethics, justice, morality, liberty, are important for us all.

 Thank you and goodbye

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                                                                                                               Origin : http://www.thaigov.go.th