July 2, 2025, 15.30 hours – Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, assigned Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, to give a live interview on the topic “The Ministry of Labour’s Role in Supporting Thai Workers in Israel and Iran” on the program NBT Mee Kam Tob, aired on NBT2HD. The occasion took place at the recording studio of the National Broadcasting Services of Thailand (NBT2HD), Vibhavadi Rangsit Road, Din Daeng District, Bangkok. During the interview, the Deputy Permanent Secretary discussed the Ministry of Labour’s role in protecting Thai workers in Israel and Iran, affirming that Thai workers in both countries are currently safe, with no reports of injuries or fatalities. He also emphasized the establishment of a 24-hour assistance center and the launch of the “SMART TOEA” mobile application, which enables real-time tracking and support for Thai workers in high-risk areas. Some Thai workers have already returned to Thailand, although none of them returned due to war-related threats.
June 23, 2025 – Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, addressed the current situation of Thai workers in Israel amid the ongoing unrest in the Middle East. His remarks followed his chairing of the 3rd Meeting (2025) of the Coordination and Assistance Centre for Monitoring the Unrest in the State of Israel, held at the Prasong Rananan Meeting Room, 5th Floor, Ministry of Labour. He stated that, in light of the escalating tensions in the Middle East between Israel and Iran, the Ministry of Labour is closely monitoring developments under the directive of Prime Minister Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The Ministry’s highest priority is to ensure the complete safety (100%) of all Thai workers in affected areas. The Ministry of Labour, in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the armed forces, is jointly monitoring the situation. If any severe or undesirable incidents occur, Thai authorities stand fully prepared to repatriate Thai nationals immediately. At present, reports from the Labour Attaché at the Royal Thai Embassy in Tel Aviv, Israel, and at the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, as well as other related agencies, confirm […]
June 20, 2025 – Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, announced that the Ministry of Labour has established a Coordination and Assistance Centre to monitor the situation of unrest in the State of Israel and the Islamic Republic of Iran. The center was created to provide close protection and support for Thai workers in at-risk areas, and Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, has been appointed as the Director of the Centre. According to reports from the Labour Attaché in Tel Aviv, there have been no reports of Thai nationals being injured or killed in the latest incidents. Nonetheless, the Ministry of Labour has proactively implemented measures to ensure Thai workers can immediately access emergency support if unforeseen events occur. One of the key measures is encouraging all Thai workers in Israel and Iran to install the “SMART TOEA” application on their mobile phones (available on both Android and iOS systems). Users are asked to grant location access so that the Ministry of Labour can track workers’ locations in real-time, which will enable rapid response and evacuation in case of emergencies. At present, seven Thai workers […]
June 16, 2025 – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, together with Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, and senior officials from the Ministry, announced that due to escalating tensions in the Middle East between Israel and Iran, the Ministry of Labour has been closely monitoring the situation under directives from Prime Minister Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra. The Ministry’s highest priority is ensuring the absolute safety of all Thai workers in the affected areas. Mr. Phiphat confirmed that Thai workers in both Israel and Iran are currently safe. There have been no reports of injuries or fatalities. The Ministry of Labour has been able to establish contact with all Thai workers and will continue monitoring the situation around the clock to provide immediate assistance if necessary. As for the status of Thai workers in Israel, the latest data indicates a total of approximately 39,500 Thai workers, comprising around 33,000 legal workers and 6,500 undocumented workers. Their main occupations are agriculture (29,300 workers), construction (2,500 workers), and other industries (1,200 workers). The Ministry has also suspended further deployment of additional workers to Israel. In Iran, approximately 250 to 300 Thai nationals […]
June 14, 2025 — Amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, Prime Minister Ms. Paetongtarn Shinawatra has expressed deep concern for Thai workers currently in Israel and instructed the Ministry of Labour to closely monitor their safety. In response, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, has launched immediate action focusing on three key areas: Closely monitoring the safety of Thai workers across all areas in Israel. Coordinating with employers and recruitment companies to prepare safe zones and evacuation plans in case of emergency. Urging all Thai workers to promptly report their current locations to the Labour Office in Tel Aviv or via relatives through the Department of Employment in Thailand to ensure an up-to-date system for rapid assistance when needed. Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, stated that he had instructed the Labour Attaché in Tel Aviv to coordinate with all employers in Israel to establish safe zones for Thai workers. Workers are also advised to always carry important identification documents, avoid high-risk areas and public gatherings, and closely follow official government updates. Additionally, recruitment companies in Thailand have been advised to suspend the dispatch of new worker groups to […]
June 11, 2025, 14.00 hours – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour assigned Mr. Aree Krainara, the Secretariat to the Labour Minister, and Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, to represent the Ministry of Labour in receiving the body of the last deceased Thai hostage from the conflict in Israel. The delegation also laid a wreath in tribute. The event was attended by Ms. Chayika Wongnapachan, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ms. Devora Dorsman Yarkoni, Deputy Chief of Mission, Israeli Embassy, and senior officials from the Ministry of Labour, held at the Suvarnabhumi Airport cargo terminal in Samut Prakan Province. Mr. Aree Krainara, the Secretariat to the Labour Minister, said that Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, had assigned him, along with the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour and senior executives from all agencies under the Ministry of Labour, to represent the ministry in receiving the Thai worker’s body, repatriated by the Thai Embassy and arriving at Suvarnabhumi Airport at 14.00 hours. A wreath from the Minister of Labour was also presented to express condolences. Mr. Aree added that on June 9, the Ministry of […]
June 10, 2025, 7.45 hours local time, Geneva, Switzerland – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, represented Thailand at the ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Breakfast Meeting and prepared to deliver a statement at the 113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) — a key milestone marking Thailand’s proactive role on the global labour stage in 2025. During the ASEAN Labour Ministers’ Breakfast Meeting, he held discussions with labour ministers and representatives from ASEAN member states, including Malaysia and Singapore, as well as ILO Director-General Mr. Gilbert Houngbo. All parties expressed appreciation to Malaysia for initiating “ASEAN Year of Skills 2025”, aimed at equipping the regional workforce to meet the challenges brought by AI, technological advancements, and the green economy. Later, at the 113th Session of the ILC, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, presented Thailand’s vision for workforce development under the theme “Jobs, Rights, and Growth”, reflecting this year’s ILO Director-General’s report. Joining the session were senior Thai labour officials, including Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour and the Director-Generals of the Departments of Employment, Skill Development, Labour Protection and Welfare, and the Secretary-General of the Social Security Office. […]
June 6, 2025, 14.00 hours – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, presided over the opening ceremony of JOB EXPO THAILAND 2025: More Than Just a Job Fair, an event designed to create job opportunities and promote sustainable income and careers for people of all ages and groups. Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director-General of the Department of Employment, delivered the event overview. Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, Mr. Aree Krainara, the Secretariat to the Labour Minister, Mr. Phuchong Worasri, assigned to the Office of the Prime Minister and currently serving at the Ministry of Labour, Mr. Pairoj Chotikasathien, Chairman of the Advisory Board to the Minister of Labour, Mr. Phumipat Mueanchan, the Ministry of Labour’s Spokesperson, Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, Ms. Bubpha Rueangsud, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, and Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, the Deputy Permanent Secretaries of Labour, along with senior executives of the Ministry of Labour also attended. The event was held at Halls 5–6, Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Khlong Toei, Bangkok. The Ministry of Labour organized JOB EXPO THAILAND 2025 under the theme “More Than Just a Job Fair” to help people of all […]
May 31, 2025 – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, shared a media briefing following his response to questions during the House of Representatives budget deliberation on the 2026 Fiscal Year Budget Bill, affirming that he addressed all concerns raised by the opposition with clarity and precision. Mr. Phiphat stated that the increased 2026 Fiscal Year budget allocation for the Ministry of Labour will support key programs under the Department of Skill Development, including procurement of computer and AI systems. These investments are crucial for developing updated training curricula in IT and AI, replacing outdated equipment to align with evolving labour market demands. He added that traditional skill development models no longer match industry needs. In response, the Ministry is enhancing workforce capabilities through collaboration between the Department of Skill Development, educational institutions, and private enterprises by upskilling and reskilling with modern skills. Notable partnerships include training programs with Microsoft for AI-related skills, as well as modules in semiconductors, electrical and electronic technologies, and digital competencies. The Ministry is also working with vocational and higher education institutions to prepare students entering the workforce, implementing credit transfer systems via the Credit […]
May 23, 2025 – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, assigned Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, to preside over the opening ceremony of “JOB FAIR 2025 @Pathum Thani”. The event aims to promote employment for all target groups, including students, new graduates, the unemployed, and general workers. Mr. Sibmuenchai Phothisin, the Department of Employment’s Deputy Director-General, delivered the opening report. Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Dr. Sansanee Saiyasanthi, Director of Pathum Thani Vocational College, and executives of the Ministry of Labour joined in the event. Mr. Somkid Chanthamrik, Governor of Pathum Thani Province, gave a welcome speech. Heads of government agencies under the Ministry of Labor of Pathum Thani Province, students, and private sector companies joined in the welcome at the Pathummas Auditorium, Pathum Thani Vocational College, Pathum Thani Province. Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, stated, “I am delighted and honoured that Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, has entrusted me to preside over the opening of ‘JOB FAIR 2025 @Pathum Thani’ today. This initiative aligns with the 20-Year National Strategy, which emphasizes enhancing national competitiveness and developing human capital. […]
May 20, 2025, 13.30 hours – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, presided over the press conference for the announcement of JOB EXPO THAILAND 2025, held at the meeting room on the 5th floor of the Ministry of Labour building. Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director-General of the Department of Employment, gave a report. Also joining the occasion were Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, Mr. Aree Krainara, the Secretariat to the Labour Minister, Mr. Phuchong Worasri, assigned to the Office of the Prime Minister and currently serving at the Ministry of Labour, Mr. Pairoj Chotikasathien, Chairman of the Advisory Board to the Minister of Labour, Mr. Phumipat Mueanchan, the Ministry of Labour’s Spokesperson, Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Decha Pruksapatnarak, Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, Lieutenant Commander Saroj Khomkhai, the Director-General of the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, Mrs. Marasri Jairangsi, the Secretary-General of the Social Security Office, Mr. Nantachai Panyasurarit, the Director of the Thailand Institute Of Occupational Safety And Health, Mr. Pichet Thongphan, the Ministry of Labour’s Inspector-General, Ms. Kanchana Poolkaew, the […]
May 15, 2025, 10.00 hours (KST) – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, together with Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Somchai Morakotsriwan, Director-General of the Department of Employment, Mrs. Sirirat Srichart, Labour Minister-Counsellor at the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul, and delegation visited 119 newly arrived Thai workers at the Yeoju Training Center for New Foreign Workers, operated by the Korea Labour and Employment Foundation (KLEF) under South Korea’s Ministry of Employment and Labour. The visit aimed to show moral support on the workers’ first day of EPS training, following their arrival in South Korea the previous day. In a meeting with Mr. Park Jong-pil, Secretary-General of KLEF, Minister Phiphat discussed developing cooperation in promoting Thai workers and reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to sending workers who are skilled, knowledgeable, and disciplined. Mr. Phiphat stated that KLES (Korea Labour and Employment Service) is an agency under the Ministry of Employment and Labour of South Korea, with the primary responsibility of promoting international labour cooperation, managing the employment of foreign workers under the EPS system, and providing training for foreign workers who have just arrived in the country. This training […]
Mr. Phumipat Mueanchan, the Ministry of Labour’s Spokesperson, revealed that Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, is closely monitoring and expediting the work of the Trai Thep Phithak Special Task Force, which was established under the Labour Minister’s directive. The task force is tasked with inspecting employment conditions, labour practices, forced labour or services, and the worst forms of child labour among migrant workers. The aim is to combat illegal labor, prevent unauthorized occupation of Thai jobs, and address illegal immigration, as well as protect Thai workers’ rights. The initiative involves strict enforcement of labour-related laws by integrating efforts from three core departments: the Office of the Permanent Secretary of Labour, the Department of Employment, and the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare. It also involves collaboration with 11 other state agencies, including the Ministry of Interior, the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, the Royal Thai Police, the Military, and the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), to conduct nationwide inspection operations. The Ministry of Labour’s Spokesperson said that from December 18, 2024, to April 30, 2025, the Trai Thep Phithak Special Task Force conducted 20 inspection rounds, covering […]
May 6, 2025 – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, and Mr. Varawut Silpa-archa, Minister of Social Development and Human Security, jointly launched the project and signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the “Project to Promote and Develop Vocational Skills for Persons with Disabilities and Their Caregivers for Sustainable Development.” The initiative is driven by the Department of Skill Development, the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, and 12 supporting government and workforce network agencies. Also in attendance were Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, Mr. Aree Krainara, the Secretariat to the Labour Minister, Mr. Phuchong Worasri, assigned to the Office of the Prime Minister and currently serving at the Ministry of Labour, Mr. Phumipat Mueanchan, the Ministry of Labour’s Spokesperson, Ms. Bubpha Rueangsud, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Chokchai Wichienchaiya, Director-General of the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, Mr. Decha Pruekpattanarak, Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, and the Ministry of Labour’s executives. The event was held at the […]
May 2, 2025, at 09.15 hours – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, presided over the official opening of the “International Welding Skills Test” in Phuket. The event is part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop human resources in marine tourism-related businesses. The Minister also inspected national skills training and testing programs and visited occupational group exhibition booths. Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, and Air Chief Marshal Athikun Kongmee, Advisor to the Minister on Illegal Worker Management, attended the event. Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, represented Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, at the opening ceremony. Mr. Decha Phruekpattanarak, Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, delivered the event briefing at the Phuket Skill Development Institute 21. The welding skills test is a joint initiative between the Department of Skill Development (DSD), through Phuket Skill Development Institute 21, and Phuket Superyacht Marina Co., Ltd. (Port Matchanu). The goal is to raise the skill level and capacity of welders to meet international standards. This marks the 4th batch of testing, involving 10 […]
April 30, 2025 – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, invited workers, employees, social security contributors, and the general public to attend the “National Labour Day 2025” celebration. This annual event, hosted by the Ministry of Labour, aims to honor Thai workers as a driving force in the nation’s economic development and to ensure equitable access to benefits, services, and job opportunities. This year’s event is packed with free activities for all attendees, including job applications through the “Thai Mee Ngan Tum” platform with over 174,000 positions available, free flu vaccinations (limited doses covering four strains), basic health checkups provided by network hospitals under the social security scheme, freelance skill training, online learning with certificates, social security benefits check (all sections), free food and beverages, product shopping from disabled social security contributors, games, quizzes, and prizes, and live music from performing artists. Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, announced that the event will be held on Thursday, May 1, 2025, at Lan Khon Mueang, Bangkok City Hall on Dinso Road, starting at 07.00 hours. […]
