Bangkok: Amidst Thailand's ongoing political transition, with the new Prime Minister and Cabinet recently sworn in on April 6th, Professor Veera Teerapat raised concerns and a bleak outlook for the current economic and social situation.

According to Thai News Agency, a major point of criticism was the soaring price of diesel fuel, reaching 50.54 baht per liter. Professor Weera stated that this was an unprecedented situation, where diesel was more expensive than gasoline. This had a ripple effect, particularly in the transportation sector, such as the Saen Saep canal boats, which immediately announced a fare increase.

From Professor Veera's perspective, the government is trying to solve the problem by prioritizing "political science over economics," such as implementing measures to close gas stations between 10 PM and 5 AM to conserve energy, expected to begin after April 20th. This also includes attempts to use excess profits from refining margins to support oil prices. However, Professor Veera notes that using legal tools like the 1973 Royal Decree to enforce these measures may face practical problems if an agreement cannot be reached with the refineries.

When asked about ways to reduce the burden on the public's energy costs, Professor Weera provided interesting statistical data: Thailand produces only about 100,000 barrels of crude oil and condensate per day, while the actual demand is as high as 800,000 barrels per day. Therefore, the country still has to rely heavily on imports from other countries, especially from the Middle East.

Professor Weera gave straightforward advice to entrepreneurs and workers, stating that used car and car wash businesses are facing a severe crisis, more so than the 1997 crisis, due to limited problem-solving tools and people trying to tighten their belts and reduce unnecessary expenses.

For those who graduated in general fields such as business administration and find it difficult to find jobs, Professor Weera recommends focusing on "specialized skills" such as air conditioning repair or skilled trades, which are in higher demand in the market than following current trends.

Additionally, Professor Weera analyzed information from a listener who is a delivery rider and concluded that, despite the tiring and risky nature of the extremely hot weather, the net income after expenses, at approximately 700 baht per day or almost 20,000 baht per month, is still higher than the starting salary of a bachelor's degree graduate in many fields.

However, Professor Weera reiterated the importance of self-reliance rather than dependence on the government, as the government itself is struggling to survive uncontrollable external factors such as the war in the Middle East. He urged Thais to recognize the fragility of the economy and the need for drastic adjustments to overcome a crisis that may last longer than anticipated.