Thailand's newly-appointed Prime Minister Anutin delivered his policy address to parliament on the 29th, stating that the government will deal with four major challenges — economy, national security, natural disasters, and social issues — within a limited timeframe.
Bhumjaithai Party leader Anutin was elected as Thailand's new prime minister on the 5th of this month. According to the timeline announced by Thai media, the new government will begin work on October 1.
In his policy statement, Anutin said the current government will quickly respond to all the challenges facing the nation. Specific measures include: increasing people's income, reducing living costs, restoring confidence in the tourism market; peacefully resolving the Thai-Cambodian border dispute while resolutely defending national sovereignty, and holding a national referendum on whether to abolish the Thai-Cambodian memorandum of understanding; improving disaster early warning systems; cracking down on illegal gambling, among others.
With regard to illegal gambling, Anutin stated that the government firmly will not legalize any form of gambling or include it within entertainment precincts, will thoroughly revise relevant laws and regulations, and will limit the scope of gambling permits to the greatest extent.
On the Thai-Cambodian border dispute, he said they would adhere to the principle of peace, safeguard territorial sovereignty, and resolve disputes through diplomatic dialogue.
Focus on Southern Thailand Border Security
Anutin also expressed concern for the security situation along the southern border with Malaysia. He said that authorities will adjust strategies, create a safe environment, promote economic development and improve people's quality of life, with the aim of achieving long-term peace and stability.
Previously, the People’s Party, which holds the most seats in the lower house of parliament, reached an agreement with the Bhumjaithai Party to support Anutin as the new prime minister, with the condition that the new government must push for constitutional amendments and dissolve the lower house within four months to pave the way for a new general election.