"Big Krieng" buys red pork rice himself on the first day, confident it helps the nation save budget, hints that free meals may return once the crisis eases.
On 27 Apr 2026 GMT+7, reporters described the atmosphere at the parliament following the Senate Special Committee's resolution requiring senators to purchase their own meals to save budget amid the Middle East crisis. Today marked the first day that food vendors were arranged to serve meals at the Members' Dining Room on the 2nd floor of the parliamentary building.
An inspection of the senators' dining area found 3-4 food vendors operating, including a spicy pork noodle shop, red pork and crispy pork rice shop, dessert stall, and halal food such as chicken biryani, with prices ranging from 60 to 70 baht per box. Complimentary drinking water was provided. Senators were required to pay by scan payment only; cash or coupons were not accepted.
General Kriengkrai Srirak, First Deputy President of the Senate, supported the policy by purchasing five boxes of red and crispy pork rice to serve guests. He also ate in front of the media in a friendly manner, describing the taste as delicious and good value at 60 baht, adding in southern Thai dialect, "Delicious indeed," and giving a thumbs-up to confirm the flavor.
General Kriengkrai explained that this adjustment aims to help the nation save budget. He estimated that previously the food budget was about 800 baht per person per day, but now with members buying their own meals, it would be no more than 200 baht each. The saved budget can be redirected by the government to address public hardships amid the economic crisis.
"Today is the first trial day; there may be some glitches or some members may find the food options limited. However, we will survey preferences to rotate food vendors appropriately. This is part of life’s flavor, and most members have cooperated well," General Kriengkrai said.
Regarding some members' disagreement, General Kriengkrai clarified that further understanding is needed, but this is a resolution from the Senate Whip to prioritize urgent national assistance. However, if the economic crisis eases and the country returns to normal, the free meal system may be reinstated for convenience during meetings. Furthermore, if vendors' sales are insufficient in the future, there may be consideration to open service to Senate officials as well.