Bangkok: Nanthana has called on the government to professionally manage the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. She expressed concerns about the government's approach to handling the situation and questioned how it plans to assist citizens and businesses with rising living costs. She commended Singapore for swiftly implementing measures in response to the crisis.

According to Thai News Agency, Senator Nantana Nantavaroropas held a press conference urging the government to address the domestic challenges triggered by the conflict between the United States and Iran, which began five days ago. This conflict has had a global impact, particularly on oil and gas resources, resulting in increased prices and potential shortages. Thailand, a heavily affected country in ASEAN, imports 4.7% of its GDP in energy. Despite the growing panic among Thais and long queues at gas stations, the caretaker government has not yet taken action.

Ms. Nanthana highlighted Singapore's response as a model example, noting that the country introduced six key strategies on the second day of the crisis. These strategies included warning citizens about the situation's volatility, managing financial conditions, coordinating with the private sector, diversifying energy sources, and addressing panic buying. Singapore's proactive measures were aimed at mitigating the crisis's impact effectively.

Returning to Thailand, Ms. Nanthana criticized the government's "plus" approach to crisis management. She pointed out the lack of clarity regarding Thailand's oil reserves, with conflicting reports about their duration. Despite the energy crisis, the government continues to export oil. Ms. Nanthana posed several questions about alternative oil sources, energy conservation measures, and potential economic strategies to address rising prices and shortages. She emphasized the need for government action to support citizens and businesses in the long term.

Ms. Nanthana warned against a passive governmental response, recalling previous instances where inadequate management led to significant losses. She urged the government to establish a "war room" to collaborate with public and private sectors on professional measures for managing energy resources and preventing panic-driven hoarding. She stressed the importance of timely plans to support both citizens and businesses, highlighting the severity of the crisis and the necessity for decisive government action.