The government in Thailand says that the more than three million Thai people who work in the informal sector in the country can also count on financial support.
Since the partial lockdown in Bangkok and some provinces, many Thai people, such as street vendors and massage parlor employees, have lost their income. The cabinet has decided to also support this group with 5.000 baht per month. This amount comes from a package of 200 billion baht in support measures, which was approved yesterday.
The financial assistance will start on April 1. In addition to workers in the informal sector, employees with a (temporary) contract are also eligible who cannot rely on the Social Security Fund. To qualify, one must register with Government Savings Bank Bangkok, BAAC and Krungthai bank or online through a website. The assistance is provided for three months.
It is also possible to take out an emergency loan of 10.000 baht per person with a monthly interest of 0,1 percent and a term of two and a half years. A security deposit is not required. The government is allocating 40 billion baht for that purpose, says Deputy Prime Minister Somkid, who announced the social assistance benefit yesterday.
Source: Bangkok Post
I think it's important that the informal sector like this street vendor gets help. These people are stuck with their trade when people are too afraid to do anything or change money, but they also want food and often have a family. The street hairdresser, the dressmaker you find everywhere in Thailand, they are the first to lose their turnover when restraining orders are imposed.
Actually, the government should also do something about beggars; often disabled people who 'have to' bring a few pennies home so as not to get hit or to be the last brag at the table (yes, I know, there is also abuse…..).
Thailand is also trying to do the necessary.