Bangkok:The Cabinet has added Samut Songkhram province to the list of disaster-stricken areas, accelerating relief and recovery efforts with the existing budget of 4.7 billion baht, following the approval of funds covering all affected areas.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Ekkapop Pienpises, Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, stated that the Cabinet is closely monitoring the flood situation and ensuring the implementation of the Prime Minister's directives, which include assistance, relief, and recovery for the affected population. Relevant agencies have been instructed to expedite and coordinate their actions.
The Cabinet has also approved extending the state of emergency in the three southern border provinces for another three months, from October 20, 2026, to January 19, 2027. This includes areas in Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala provinces, with specific districts excluded. This marks the 86th extension of the state of emergency.
Furthermore, the Cabinet has approved moving forward with reforming the 2028 budget system, incorporating consultations from various sectors for comprehensive discussions before finalizing the budget at the end of October. This initiative aims towards implementing a Zero-Based Budgeting approach.
Mr. Ekkapop revealed that the budget preparation process will be more open and participatory, with a "Pre-Budget Consultation" process scheduled for late October 2026. This change aims to gather input from the government, coalition parties, the opposition, relevant agencies, the private sector, academics, and the general public to improve the efficiency of budget allocation.
Additionally, the Cabinet appointed Phasakon Chairat as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Industry, effective from the date of the royal appointment.
Thailand is also advancing its participation in the OECD's "Global Trust Survey," which measures public trust in the government across six areas. This participation is expected to support Thailand's bid for OECD membership and improve governance standards.
Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced that the Cabinet approved the draft agreement on cooperation in projects under the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Special Fund for 2026. This project, led by the Department of Special Investigation, aims to strengthen law enforcement capacity in the Mekong sub-region and combat transnational crime. The project is funded with an allocation of US$80,000 from the Mekong-Lancang Cooperation Special Fund, established by China.
The Ministry of Justice confirmed that the project focuses on enhancing investigative skills, providing legal knowledge related to international cooperation, and exchanging best practices, ensuring the protection of Thailand's data and interests. The draft agreement will be effective for three years and automatically renewed unless terminated with prior notice. The Chinese Embassy in Thailand aims to have the agreement signed by October 15, 2026, to proceed with fund disbursement.