Bangkok: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Olar points out that the “Half-Half Plus” scheme is an economic tool that benefits all parties, not a strategy-free cash handout. Assoc. Prof. Olarn Thinbangtiew, a lecturer at the Faculty of Political Science and Law at Burapha University, commented on the “Half-Half Plus” project, which the government under Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will begin transferring funds to citizens this October. He described it as a developmental economic policy that integrates the interests of the state, the people, and small entrepreneurs.

According to Thai News Agency, Assoc. Prof. Olar explained that the project’s key feature is the concept of “The government pays half, the people pay half,” which allows project participants to truly participate in the economy. People will realize the value of their money, while the government’s contributions will also be returned to small businesses and entrepreneurs in the community.

The program is divided into three groups: Individuals outside the tax system will receive 2,000 baht, those in the tax system will receive 2,400 baht, and over 13 million state welfare cardholders will receive an additional 1,700 baht, totaling 2,000 baht per person. Benefiting both citizens and entrepreneurs, the program increases purchasing power for low-income individuals, enabling them to purchase essential consumer goods, reducing expenses, and fostering household economic stability. Meanwhile, small entrepreneurs benefit from increased sales, increased local income, employment, and reduced economic inequality.

It also lays a long-term economic foundation. Assoc. Prof. Olar emphasized that “Half-Half Plus” is different from other cash handout programs because: 1. The public must participate in the payments; 2. The money circulates through community shops; 3. It stimulates the economy, extending to workers and producers; and 4. It creates long-term benefits for the grassroots economy.

“This is a participatory economy where people do not just wait for assistance but become economic drivers alongside the government,” said Assoc. Prof. Olar.