RI's Neighbour in Panic as Fuel Prices Soar, PM Calls for National WFH

Prime Minister of Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul has called on the public to work from home. This appeal comes amid a surge in fuel prices driven by the global energy crisis. In a statement posted on social media, Anutin requested active participation from citizens and the private sector to conserve energy, as Thailand faces heightened risks due to its reliance on imported oil and gas. “I also request cooperation from all citizens and the private sector to save energy, whether through WFH (working from home) or WFA (working from anywhere), reducing the use of private vehicles and switching to public transport, carpooling, and using electricity responsibly,” he said, as quoted by The Guardian on Tuesday (7/4/2026). The spike in energy prices is the main trigger for the appeal. Diesel prices in Thailand have reportedly surpassed 50 baht per litre, equivalent to around Rp26,170, up from around 30 baht per litre at the end of February. Anutin emphasised that although Thailand has relatively high oil reserves compared to several other countries, its position as an energy importer leaves it vulnerable to global fluctuations. “We cannot be complacent and manage our oil resources as we have in the past,” he stated. As part of energy-saving efforts, the Thai government is also limiting overseas official travel for state apparatus and encouraging lighter work attire to reduce air conditioning consumption. Meanwhile, Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce will tighten exports of crude palm oil and control packaged palm oil prices to maintain domestic supplies amid rising biodiesel needs. The sharp rise in fuel prices is burdening various sectors, from agriculture to transport and tourism. This situation is occurring ahead of Songkran, a key moment that typically drives spikes in mobility and tourist visits. However, tourism industry players are concerned that this year’s celebrations will be quieter due to high travel costs and potential flight disruptions. Several countries in the Asian region are also taking similar steps to curb energy consumption, such as implementing a four-day workweek in the public sector in Sri Lanka and the Philippines, and promoting remote work in Vietnam. Meanwhile, Indonesia is adjusting its policies by increasing the additional cost of jet fuel by 28 percentage points and allowing airlines to raise domestic ticket prices by up to 13%.