“Digital wallet” benefit may be paid in cash - Phumtham

28 Sept 04:59 Key points summarised by AI

Caretaker Deputy PM Phumtham Wechayachai confirms the Pheu Thai party will proceed with the "digital wallet" scheme, potentially adjusting it to distribute cash instead of digital money.
The scheme's funding was reduced from 500 to 450 billion baht, with no further cuts planned, maintaining its objective to stimulate the sluggish economy.
Distribution of the 10,000 baht benefit is slated for the final quarter of this year, with clearer details to emerge after the new cabinet is in place and coalition parties discuss the plan.
Opposition MP Sirikanya Tansakul is not surprised by the cash option due to budget deadlines, agreeing on the need for economic stimulation while questioning the impact of reduced funding.

Lamphun in a New Light

Today 15:02 Key points summarised by AI

Lamphun illuminates its ancient city with two concurrent light festivals: the high-tech VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN and the traditional Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival.
VIJIT Thailand @ LAMPHUN transforms historic landmarks into an outdoor gallery, using projections and multimedia to animate Lamphun's history, including Queen Chamadevi's story.
The Hundred Thousand Lantern Festival, part of Yi Peng, fills temples and streets with countless traditional lanterns, symbolizing Buddhist devotion and personal wishes.
These festivals offer a unique after-dark experience, blending contemporary light art with centuries-old Lanna traditions, connecting visitors to Lamphun's past and faith.