Thai news anchors remove jackets on air to support energy-saving campaign

A presenter removed his jacket to promote less AC use. (Screengrab)

• Thai TV anchors removed jackets on air to promote energy saving
• Government urges less air conditioning amid rising fuel costs
• Wearing lighter clothes can cut electricity use.

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Television news anchors in Thailand made an unusual on-air gesture this week to support the government’s call for energy conservation. During a live broadcast, several presenters removed their jackets on camera to highlight a simple message: using less air conditioning can help reduce electricity consumption.

The event was a part of a larger public initiative in Thailand to reduce energy consumption in light of the steep increase in gasoline costs worldwide in the wake of the Middle East crisis. Thailand is susceptible to abrupt spikes in oil and gas costs because, like many other Asian nations, it imports a significant portion of its energy.

The Thai government has urged homes and companies to consume less electricity whenever possible in recent weeks. Setting the air conditioner's temperature a little higher and avoiding overcooling has been one of the suggestions.

On television, news anchors chose to live showcase the concept.

One of the presenters took off his suit jacket during the show, explaining that the gesture was intended to encourage viewers to use less air conditioning. Offices and studios may operate at greater room temperatures without making people uncomfortable by dressing lighter.

The move quickly drew attention on social media, where clips of the moment spread widely.

Thailand’s push to reduce energy consumption reflects a broader concern across Asia about rising fuel costs. The ongoing war involving Iran has disrupted energy markets and pushed oil prices higher, raising electricity generation costs for many countries.

Thailand relies heavily on imported oil and liquefied natural gas to produce power. When global prices rise, the impact can quickly feed through to domestic electricity bills.

Government officials have said small behavioural changes by millions of people can make a noticeable difference in total energy demand. Measures such as adjusting air-conditioning settings, turning off unused appliances and reducing unnecessary lighting are part of the campaign.

Public figures, including television presenters, are being encouraged to help promote these habits.

While removing jackets on television is a symbolic gesture, it highlights how governments are trying to build public awareness about energy consumption during a period of global uncertainty.

For viewers watching the broadcast, the message was straightforward. Saving energy does not always require complex technology. Sometimes it can begin with simple changes in everyday habits.