Srettha dedicates all his govt earnings to Thais – what can 11.58 million baht buy?
Thailand’s new Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin, who also holds the Finance portfolio, made headlines this week when he announced on Thursday that he would forgo all his salary and allowances.
This money will be donated to charities that help vulnerable people, he said. The charities will be selected by a special working group, government spokesman Chai Watcharong told reporters later.
Srettha’s salary as prime minister comes in at 125,590 baht per month. This comprises a basic salary of 75,590 and allowances of 50,000 baht.
As finance minister, he earns 115,740 baht per month, or 73,240 baht in basic salary and 42,500 baht in allowances.
This means, Srettha makes a total of 2,895,960 baht per year from both his salaries. If Srettha were to complete his four-year term in both positions, his two salaries and allowances would add up to 11,583,840 baht.
So, what can 11.58 million baht (US$314,424) buy?
For an average Thai household, this money could cover their expenses for 638.9 months or a little over 53 years, based on a monthly average of 18,130 baht per month as estimated by the Trade Policy and Strategy Office.
If, however, you wish to purchase the new iPhone 15 Pro 1TB – one of the most luxurious smartphones starting at 66,900 baht – the 11.58 million baht will get you 173 of them.
Another trendy product that many want to get their hands on is the latest Bearbrick x Kaws Dissected 1000% collectible, which retails at 1,013,216 baht. The PM’s salary could get you 11 of those.
Alternatively, you could get 1,158 units of CRYBABY Lonely Christmas, the hottest art toy sold by Pop Mart at 10,000 baht apiece. The Hong Kong-based toy company just opened its first flagship store in Bangkok this month.
However, these assumptions are just for fun.
Many Thais have expressed their admiration for Srettha’s sacrifice and said they hope this will help give vulnerable people better opportunities in society.
