Reel deal: Thai man is squids in with government digital wallet

Among the many recipients of the government’s digital wallet handout is a 66 year old Thai man who transformed his share into a thriving small business selling grilled squid.

State welfare cardholder Suwit Inrat, also known as Uncle Ood, received the handout money via his Krungthai Bank account around 2am today, September 27, prompting Suwit to spring into action.

With just 400 baht of his grant, he procured all the essential ingredients for his new venture, pricing each squid skewer at an unbeatable 10 baht. Armed with a grill and a cooler, Suwit was eager to start selling.

On his first day, Suwit was thrilled by the enthusiastic response from customers, many of whom were familiar faces. In a remarkable display of community support, he sold out of his entire stock before sunset, marking a triumphant beginning to his entrepreneurial journey.

Looking to the future, Suwit plans to reinvest part of his profits to expand his squid business, while also setting aside funds for personal expenses. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the government for this opportunity, underscoring how the programme empowers him and others to enhance their livelihoods.

“This support has made a real difference. I can now provide for myself and contribute to my community.”

This initiative is part of a larger government effort aimed at supporting vulnerable groups through the digital wallet programme, which has already distributed funds to around 14.5 million eligible recipients, including state welfare cardholders and individuals with disabilities.

Between September 25 and 30, the government transferred 10,000 baht directly to qualifying individuals via the PromptPay system linked to their national ID cards, reported Pattaya Mail.

In related news, hundreds of sea gypsies in Phuket flocked to ATMs at Laem Tukkae, Koh Sirey, Ratsada subdistrict on Wednesday, September 25, as part of the Thai government’s 10,000 baht handout scheme for vulnerable citizens.

The scheme, aimed at state welfare cardholders and disabled individuals, is part of a broader economic stimulus programme.