Hat yai: A Hat Yai Poll survey on public confidence across 14 southern provinces has highlighted a significant drop in the economic and social confidence index for November 2025. The decline is most notable in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, where severe flooding has disrupted economic activities, resulting in estimated damages exceeding 25 billion baht.

According to Thai News Agency, the business sector, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), is facing substantial challenges. Many businesses report declines in assets, inventory, and revenue. In response, there is a growing demand for the government to implement urgent economic recovery and stimulus measures, including personal income tax deductions and the provision of long-term, low-interest loans without the need for collateral.

Additionally, the recent floods have caused telephone and internet outages, affecting daily lives and properties. This has led to public calls for the government and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) to ensure that network operators are better prepared for such disasters, with robust communications systems in place.

Experts emphasize that the flooding serves as a critical reminder for the government to enhance disaster prevention and water management strategies in key southern economic regions. By doing so, they aim to prepare for potentially more severe weather conditions in the future, thereby restoring public and investor confidence.