BANGKOK, Thailand – Government Spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat has reported that public interest in the “Half-Half Plus” co-payment scheme was overwhelming, with more than 13 million people successfully registering within the first two hours of the system opening. The program has a total of 20 million available slots, and registration will remain open through October 26 via the Paotang mobile application.
According to data from Krungthai Bank, most registrants received immediate confirmation, while others, particularly those who did not participate in the program’s fifth phase, were notified that their registration was being processed. Siripong confirmed that these cases have already been allocated slots and that applicants will receive confirmation within three days via Paotang or SMS.
To qualify, applicants must be Thai nationals aged 16 or older, hold a valid Thai ID card, and not be listed as state welfare recipients as of October 1, 2025. They must also not have been disqualified from previous co-payment schemes. Those who joined Phase 5 will automatically receive notification of their benefit—2,400 baht for taxpayers and 2,000 baht for non-taxpayers.
Siripong warned against duplicate registrations, which could cause delays or system errors. He also encouraged users to remain patient while awaiting status updates and reassured the public that all valid registrations are already secured in the system.
The program will begin on October 29 and run through December 31, 2025. Siripong said the early surge in registrations reflects continued trust in the government’s economic support measures, with “Half-Half Plus” playing a vital role in encouraging household spending and supporting local businesses. (NNT)
