Lack of action on flood measures

As reported, at least 10 per cent of Thailand’s gross domestic product was lost with 15 per cent of the population affected by the floods, and yet the government so far has only just put on its thinking cap. It seems to have lost its sense of priority.

Foreign investors and reinsurers are eagerly awaiting “the government’s concrete actions on water-resource management” before they make decisions about next year. It is a clear message asking for urgent measures. By May 2012 is not soon enough. This is Thailand’s worst catastrophe in confidence, and the government’s ability and our future are on the line for judgement.

There may not be droves of disinvestments by foreigners but that is natural because factories cannot be sold immediately, especially when having to go through a distressed sale. But if I were them, I would consider alternative expansion in other countries or delay my plan to expand until some concrete actions are committed and appear to be viable.

Strangely enough, I now wish to see an overlord of the calibre of Thaksin Shinawatra, who loved to think outside the box and cut all the red tape in getting things done.

Songdej Praditsmanont

Bangkok