PM urges SMEs, low-income people to ensure they are registered
Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha Friday urged small and medium-sized enterprises and low-income people to make sure they are officially registered, so that the government can provide them with assistance as well as the right welfare and benefits.
Speaking during his weekly TV programme, Prayut said the government should never forget the low-income group, which consists largely of traders, labourers, motorcycle-taxi operators, tailors and maids.
Every profession will be registered, he said, adding that the ministries of Labour, Interior, Agriculture, Commerce, and Science and Technology are joining forces to register all workers based on their incomes, so as to allow the state to assist farmers and other workers better.
“Not only can we help you via the registration, we can provide you with the right welfare and benefits. Please get yourself documented. If you are not in the system, you don’t have the right to make any complaints.
“Today, more SMEs have registered with the government. These SMEs are operating inside and outside Thailand. If qualified, the SMEs will have access to some funding. Furthermore, businesses that need a loan will receive assistance from the state.
“As for those SMEs that have gone bankrupt, you could be revived if we see potential in your business. Without us knowing who you are, or without registration, the government will not have a clue how to assist you.
“The government does not have enough capacity to support the more than 2 million SMEs that are operating in Thailand. Some businesses need Bt10 million or Bt15 million. And not only the SMEs, as agriculturists as well as infrastructure also need some funding. Everyone needs to help out. This has become a national agenda item,” the prime minister said during his address.
