In an October 8 interview, Daisy Lee, spokesperson for Thailand’s Ministry of Interior, shared that the cabinet has approved a significant financial aid initiative to support households affected by the recent flooding. Each impacted family will receive a uniform payment of 9,000 Thai Baht, which is roughly equivalent to 1,800 RMB.

Since mid-August, 23 provinces across Thailand, particularly in the northern and northeastern regions, have been severely affected by flooding, with over 66,000 families in 1,647 villages impacted.

Initially, the financial assistance was determined by the duration of flooding. Families whose homes were submerged for fewer than 30 days received 5,000 Thai Baht, while those affected for 31 to 60 days received 7,000 Baht. For homes flooded for over 60 days, the amount was set at 9,000 Baht. This structure was approved on September 17.

However, Lee noted a shift in policy: the new standard will ensure that every affected household, regardless of their prior situation, will now receive the full amount of 9,000 Baht.

To date, 6,363 families have benefited from the initial assistance program. Lee emphasized that the government is committed to rectifying any discrepancies for families that received less than 9,000 Baht through bank payments to ensure everyone is adequately supported.