Bangkok: Ekanat Promphan, a Bhumjaithai Party MP, has urged the Ministry of Energy to release comprehensive data on fuel distribution from refineries to gas stations, describing it as a critical step to alleviate public panic over the ongoing energy crisis linked to the Middle East conflict. He emphasized the need for public involvement in monitoring the situation and called on agencies to take firm action against operators engaging in profiteering. Ekanat also cautioned the future Minister of Energy against relying solely on official reports, advocating for a broader information base that includes public input.

According to Thai News Agency, during the 27th House of Representatives meeting, 1st year, 3rd session, Ekanat proposed an urgent motion addressing the energy crisis, a matter acknowledged by both government and opposition members as a cause of widespread public distress. Highlighting images of long queues at gas stations and reports of reduced fuel quotas, he raised concerns about discrepancies between government statements and the ground reality. He called on the Energy Policy and Planning Center (EPPC) to make data from the entire fuel supply chain publicly available, questioning why such information has not been transparently shared by the Ministry of Energy despite its capabilities.

Ekanat argued that under the Emergency Decree on Amending and Preventing Fuel Shortages B.E. 2516 (1973), the government should mandate data submission from all relevant sectors, including Thailand's six major refineries. He suggested that making this data public would simplify governmental oversight and prevent unwarranted public criticism of the private sector. He expressed hope that drastic measures wouldn't be necessary, advocating instead for data transparency as a solution.

Once the data is available, Ekanat proposed a collaborative effort between the public and agencies to verify its accuracy. He stressed that any business found exploiting the situation should face decisive action, warning that if the current authority under the Emergency Decree proves insufficient, stricter measures may be required.

Ekanat further criticized the current use of the Oil Fund, describing it as an illusion that masks the true cost of fuel. He pointed out that while Thailand maintains subsidized oil prices, neighboring countries, such as Singapore, experience much higher prices. He urged a reevaluation of the Oil Fund mechanism to ensure sustainable compensation methods.

In a message directed at the incoming Minister of Energy, Ekanat urged a commitment to addressing these issues with political determination, noting that past efforts have often lacked the necessary courage. He emphasized the importance of listening to public input over official reports and encouraged the government to trust the people, maintain calm, and work diligently toward resolving the crisis.