BANGKOK - Thailand Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has decided to donate his monthly salary and allowances to charities that help vulnerable people, government spokesman Chai Watcharong said on Thursday.

The charities that receive donations will be selected by the prime minister’s working group, Mr Chai said.

The first donation will be made to the Foundation for Children, a non-profit that promotes children’s rights, education and welfare while providing opportunities for underprivileged and homeless children to develop their physical, intellectual and creative potential, he added.

In addition to donating his salary, Mr Srettha will meet the executives of charities to “hear their voices” and listen to their problems so that solutions can be found, Mr Chai said.

Mr Srettha, who doubles as the finance minister, said that “giving is a good thing that anyone can do the way they like”, the spokesman said.

Mr Chai added: “The prime minister starts with himself. The government also has many policies aimed at creating happiness and well-being for Thais, particularly involving education, which can help reduce social inequality.”

He said that donations could be made immediately to charities that help vulnerable groups, while passing new legislation to help vulnerable groups could take a long time.

As prime minister, Mr Srettha receives 125,590 baht (S$4,700) a month. This comprises a salary of 75,590 baht and allowances of 50,000 baht.

Mr Srettha was previously the president and chief executive of Thailand’s property giant Sansiri.

Before entering politics early in 2023, he stepped down from his company’s top positions and transferred all of his shares in the company – reportedly valued at more than 1.2 billion baht – to his daughter.
THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK