Waking up early, locals flocked to register for the program's benefits. "Thai Help Thai Plus" Many hope it will stimulate the economy and restore purchasing power to revive lively trade once again.
On 25 May 2026 GMT+7, reporters observed a lively atmosphere at the registration site for the Thai Help Thai Plus program starting at 06:00 near the morning market in front of Buriram Hospital. Both vendors and residents closely awaited the system opening, fearing missing out on benefits, as the government capped eligibility at 30 million people.
At the registration opening at 06:00, many people stared intently at their mobile screens to quickly access the system. Initially, the system was slow and intermittently stalled. Those who accessed it had to wait in queue, while others had to wait for processing, with the app showing a continuous loading icon. Eventually, users could reach the registration page and claim their benefits.
Ms. Pornpilai Saetan, a mackerel vendor, said she had been eagerly awaiting this program, hoping it would stimulate the economy and bring back bustling trade after a period of economic downturn and reduced consumer purchasing power.
She added uncertainty about how much the program would revive the economy, since prices and living costs remain high. She said it would be necessary to observe the program's effect once in operation. Nonetheless, she appreciated the government recognizing citizens' hardships and providing assistance during this economic slowdown.
Meanwhile, in Phlapphla Chai district, Buriram province, locals and elderly residents woke early to bring their phones for their children or grandchildren to register them for the government's 60/40 Thai Help Thai Plus program.
Residents who previously received benefits from the Half-Half Plus program found it easy to claim their rights under the new 60/40 Thai Help Thai Plus program. Some received immediate confirmation, while first-time applicants either got instant approval or were informed their registration was pending.
Ms. Wimon Buachprakon, 39, from Sadao, said having participated in the previous Half-Half program made confirming her identity for the 60/40 Thai Help Thai Plus program fairly straightforward. She did encounter slow internet and suspected system delays due to heavy user traffic.
She expressed hope that every government would continue such programs, believing they help especially low-income residents by easing daily household expenses to some extent.
At the morning market under the Nakhon Luang bridge in Nakhon Luang district, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, many elderly people gradually confirmed their rights via mobile phones since early morning. Unfamiliar with mobile usage, they relied on children or neighbors for assistance and guidance.
One local said they had waited since 06:00 to confirm their Thai Help Thai Plus rights but lacked experience using the app, so a neighbor helped. The process was simple and quick due to prior preparation and bank registration.
At Krungthai Bank, Mae Jo branch, San Sai district, Chiang Mai, many elderly people came for staff assistance with registration and identity confirmation. The bank set up a help station in the parking lot, providing continuous support throughout the day.
Most visitors came because they were unable to register or confirm their identity via the Paotang app due to phone or number changes, or failed facial scans. Many were first-time registrants unfamiliar with smartphones. Additionally, some vendors new to the program also came to register.