When it comes to delivering social security awareness with a twist of extravagance, Thailand’s Social Security Office (SSO) seems to be at an odd crossroads, and let’s be frank—it’s on the receiving end of some much-deserved scrutiny. Let’s rewind a little: over the past eight years, the SSO has splurged an eye-watering 450 million baht on an annual calendar aimed at reminding folks about their social security privileges. But like an old sitcom rerun, people are just not feeling it anymore.
The drama kicked into high gear with a recent survey, hinting that more than 60% of people are over and done with this so-called “awareness tool.” It turns out, according to this nationwide survey, calendars designed to highlight social security information are now seen as not only unnecessary but also a dash of outdated. Now, as the clock ticks down to a pivotal meeting on May 22, the Social Security Office finds itself caught in a swirling tempest of criticism.
The survey ran from April 1 to 30, garnering input via an appealing combination of digital platforms and those quintessential paper forms at local branches. It sought to gauge whether the 2027 edition of the calendar should make the cut or get the boot. The verdict? Well, as shared on Facebook by Sassarum Thambusadee, an outspoken board member for insured citizens, the majority have spoken: a decisive 62.69% of online respondents waved a digital dismissal to the calendar, leaving a mere 37% to bravely show interest.
In a classic twist that’s almost cinematic, Thambusadee revealed ambitious plans to propose a full stop to this redundant publicity approach, suggesting instead that those funds could go to cooler, maybe more ‘hip’ modern communication strategies. “Out with the old and in with the new,” he urged, passionately inviting the media to keep a close watch come May 22, when these discussions promise to intensify and perhaps redefine the SSO’s messaging playbook.
Critics have long painted the calendar as the epitome of squandered resources within the SSO. With 450 million baht funneled into this now-questionable venture over the years, voices have grown louder, clamoring for a radical reevaluation of how the agency reaches out to the public. Initially crafted to inform citizens about social security benefits and other updates, today’s critics question the wisdom of relying on traditional paper mediums in the era of WhatsApp groups and Instagram stories.
The metaphorical ink is not yet dry, and anticipation hangs thick as the agency inches closer to its May 22 showdown. Will there be a triumphant shift to digital communication, leaving the glossy paper behind like an old school yearbook? Or will the calendar’s ghosts persist, hand in hand with nostalgia?
The stakes are high, and without a shadow of a doubt, whether this saga ends up on the history shelf or in the innovation spotlight will all be determined soon. Tune in and grab some popcorn—it’s shaping up to be quite the spectacle!
450 million baht on calendars is an outrageous waste! It’s 2023, and we need digital solutions, not paper relics.
A calendar can occasionally be useful for older generations who aren’t tech-savvy.
True, but investing more in teaching tech skills seems like a better long-term solution.
Exactly! Imagine how many people could benefit from online resources instead.
While many criticize the calendars, we shouldn’t forget that not everyone is ready for digital-only strategies.
Good point, but isn’t it time we help those few transition instead of holding everyone else back?
This is a blatant misallocation of resources. The SSO needs to wake up and listen to the people!
They will never change unless there’s widespread uproar from the public.
Let’s hope the May 22 meeting brings some much-needed change.
I think some people overestimate the necessity of going all-digital. Calendars have been a tradition, after all.
The calendars are nostalgic but massively outdated! Let’s bring in interactive apps.
Exactly, apps can be updated continuously with the latest info instead of once a year.
Plus, think of how much more environmentally friendly that would be!
The May 22 meeting could be a turning point, but only if real action follows the talk.
Do you think the board actually listens to these surveys, though?
I hope so, or it’ll tarnish their credibility even further.
What puzzles me is how they justified 450 million baht in the first place. That’s mind-boggling!
Right? It really sounds like someone’s pocketing the extra cash.
Old habits die hard. Let’s not lose sight of the older generation’s needs in this digital push.
But isn’t it degrading to assume they can’t adapt? Many seniors use smartphones these days.
Calendars are lovely, but why so expensive? That’s an extravagant way to say, ‘don’t forget!’
Imagine if they diverted even half that budget to online education initiatives. The impact could be tremendous.
That would be a forward-thinking move! Education is the future.
People keep clinging to physical calendars like security blankets. Let’s just leap into the future already!
I’ve kept those SSO calendars for years, but even I see it’s time for change.
Without evidence of effectiveness, isn’t it foolish to continue pouring money into these calendars?
Agreed, data-driven decisions should be the norm.
This whole debate is hilarious! People still debating calendars in 2023? Get with the program!
It’s not about being stuck in the past, but about ensuring inclusivity.
Social security awareness is vital, but let’s embrace modern ways of spreading the word.