Following another crane collapse on Rama II Road on the morning of January 15, only hours after the tragic crane collapse in Sikhio District, Nakhon Ratchasima Province, at the high-speed rail project site, Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, Minister of Labour, ordered the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare to immediately inspect the accident site and assess the damage. She also instructed safety inspectors and the Social Security Office to engage in discussions with both employers and employees to ensure urgent care and assistance. At the same time, she instructed inspections of safety standards at construction sites across Bangkok to reduce the risk of accidents, particularly at large-scale construction projects that involve heavy machinery and materials, including travelling steel gantry cranes, or LG cranes, which are generally required to comply with legal measures under the Ministerial Regulation on Prescribing Standards for the Management and Implementation of Occupational Safety, Health, and Working Environment in relation to Machinery, Cranes, Boilers, B.E. 2564 (2021). Ms. Trinuch further stated that she has instructed the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare, together with relevant agencies, to provide safety training for workers in the construction sector and those […]
Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, Minister of Labour, disclosed that she has instructed the Social Security Office to verify the names of those injured in the crane accident involving the Bangkok–Ubon Ratchathani railway line, in order to urgently and immediately ensure that insured persons receive the benefits to which they are entitled. An initial report received from the Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Social Security Office stated that, following a preliminary check, 6 injured insured persons are residents of Ubon Ratchathani Province, as follows: Ms. Boonthita Na Ubon, insured person under Section 40 Mr. Sittichai Yaosri, former insured person (resigned on August 8, 2022) Ms. Phutthawadee Phraphuban, insured person under Section 40 Ms. Yanathip Boonchit, insured person under Section 33 Mr. Witthaya Sangthong, insured person under Section 33 Ms. Chanya Saengsiri, former insured person under Section 33 (resigned on December 21, 2023) The Minister of Labour stated that she has instructed the Ubon Ratchathani Provincial Social Security Office to coordinate with all insured persons to inform them of the benefits they will receive. At the preliminary stage, the benefits applicable to each injured person from the crane accident have already been identified, categorised by […]
Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, Minister of Labour, disclosed that she has instructed the Labour Section at the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to closely monitor and take care of Thai workers in Iran. Initial assessments indicate that 38 Thai workers remain safe amid the ongoing protests against the government, and coordination is underway should evacuation become necessary. Ms. Trinuch further stated that the Labour Section has issued advisories to Thai workers to exercise increased caution when travelling, to avoid areas where protests are taking place, and to refrain from participating in any anti-government demonstrations for safety reasons. Thai workers have also been advised to closely follow updates from the Royal Thai Embassy in Tehran, the Labour Section in Abu Dhabi, as well as announcements from Iranian authorities. At present, there have been no reports of Thai workers being involved in or affected by the unrest. Should Thai workers in Iran require assistance, they may contact the Labour Section at the Royal Thai Embassy in Abu Dhabi via WhatsApp, either through Thai labour group leaders or company interpreters, or by calling (+971) 2557 6833, or contact the Royal […]
Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, Minister of Labour, spoke about concerns over the declining birth rate, which is a challenge faced by many countries worldwide. If no action is taken, Thailand will be among the 23 countries most severely affected by this issue by 2100. A significant decline in population will have a major impact on national economic systems in the future. The Ministry of Labour has pushed forward the Labour Protection Act (No. 9) B.E. 2568 (2025), which came into force on December 7. This represents a significant upgrade and reform of Thailand’s labour law. The amendment increases maternity leave from 98 days to 120 days, and requires employers to pay wages during maternity leave at the normal working-day rate for up to 60 days. In addition, the law allows childcare leave for a sick child, granting an additional 15 days of leave in cases where a child is ill, disabled, or has special needs, with wage compensation at 50%. Spouses are also permitted to take paternity leave to support their wives during childbirth, for the first time under Thai law, granting 15 days of paid leave at full pay. The […]
December 21, 2025,10.30 hours local time in the Republic of Korea – Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, Minister of Labour, together with Pol. Lt. Col. Wannapong Kotcharak, Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Somchai Maruksriwan, Director-General of the Department of Employment, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, Director-General of the Department of Skills Development, Mr. Sakdinart Sontisakyothin, Assistant to the Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Somchat Supharee, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Skills Development, Ms. Sirirat Srichat, Labour Attaché, and the delegation visited a company under the KT&F Group in Gyeonggi Province. They held discussions with Mr. Namin Choi, Chairman of KT&F, and Ms. Prapai Soi, an executive of KT&F and its affiliated companies. KT&F and its affiliated companies operate businesses that produce ready-to-eat Thai food products, such as Isan and Chinese sausages, meatballs, and Thai desserts, including khanom chan, as well as import Thai products for retail and wholesale distribution in the Republic of Korea. In addition, the group operates agricultural businesses that cultivate crops and vegetables using innovative farming systems. The discussions focused on the employment of Thai workers and opportunities to further expand the Thai labour market in the Republic of Korea. […]
November 21, 2025 – Ms. Trinuch Thienthong, Minister of Labour, presided over the opening of a seminar on “Benefits of the Skill Development Fund under the Skill Development Promotion Act B.E. 2545 and its Amendments” for Fiscal Year 2026. The report was delivered by Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour and Acting Director-General of the Department of Skills Development. Attending the event were the Minister’s working group, Pol. Lt. Col. Wannapong Kotcharak, Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Krirkrai Nasamoyon, Legal Advisor, Mr. Nattawut Phatprayoon, Labour Academic Advisor, senior executives of the Ministry of Labour and the Department of Skill Development, business representatives, and 500 seminar participants. The event took place in Makkhawan Rangsan Room, 3rd floor, The Royal Thai Army Club. Ms. Trinuch revealed that the seminar on the benefits of the Skill Development Fund under the Skill Development Promotion Act B.E. 2545 and its Amendments, for Fiscal Year 2026, was organised to ensure that establishments in the Bangkok area understand the benefits of the Skill Development Fund and the processes for promoting skill development under the Act. The seminar […]
August 22, 2025, 09.00 hours – Mr. Pongkawin Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Labour, presided over a ceremony to deliver remarks of encouragement and support to the Thai youth delegation competing in the 14th ASEAN Skills Competition, prior to their departure on August 23, 2025, to the Philippines. Attending the event were Mr. Surasit Nitiwuttiworrak, Secretary to the Labour Minister, Ms. Bubpha Rueangsud, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Mr. Decha Pruksapatnarak, Director-General of the Department of Skill Development, along with senior executives from the Ministry of Labour. The event was held at the Chatumongkol Room, 6th Floor, Ministry of Labour Building. The ASEAN Skills Competition is an agreement among ASEAN Member States, whereby each country hosts the event in rotation every two years. The aim is to develop human resources and strengthen cooperation in vocational skills, ensuring competitiveness in the face of advancing technologies and alignment with international standards. The competition provides young people with the opportunity to advance as skilled professionals in the labour market, thereby enhancing the nation’s productivity and service capacity in the future. This year marks the 14th ASEAN Skills […]
Mr. Pongkawin Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Labour, extended his congratulations to all workers following the House of Representatives’ approval of the draft Labour Protection Act (Amendment No. …), which increases the maternity leave entitlement for female employees from 98 days to 120 days. Employers are required to pay full wages for 60 days during maternity leave. Additionally, female employees may take an extra 15 days of leave to care for a newborn child in the case of a serious health condition, developmental abnormalities, or disability, with the employer paying 50% of wages during this extended leave. The bill also grants employees the right to take 15 days of leave to assist a spouse who has given birth. This leave can be taken either prior to or within 90 days after childbirth, and employers must pay 100% of wages throughout the leave period. Mr. Pongkawin further stated that these new entitlements align with the Ministry of Labour’s declared policy to protect all workers equally. He affirmed that the Ministry of Labour will continue to safeguard every worker group. Moreover, he stressed the need to push forward new labour laws that include over […]
Mr. Pongkawin Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Labour, announced that he officially assumed office on July 4, 2025. He arrived at the Ministry of Labour at 08.19 hours and paid respects to five sacred sites within the Ministry of Labour at 09.19 hours. On his first official day, he expressed his readiness and determination to fulfil his duties to the best of his abilities, with the aim of improving the lives and well-being of Thai workers and citizens. “It is a great honour to have received the royal appointment to serve as Minister of Labour. This is a tremendously important responsibility, as labour is a key driver of the national economy. I come from the private sector and understand both the employer’s and the employee’s perspectives, including the challenges faced by both formal and informal workers. I believe my experience can be used to shape effective and practical policies,” said Mr. Pongkawin. He also addressed the current situation involving Cambodian workers who are gradually returning to their home country, which may lead to a labour shortage impacting key sectors of the economy and affecting some employers. Relevant agencies are closely monitoring the […]
On May 24, 2025, Mr. Ari Krainara, Secretary to the Minister of Labor, presided over a ceremony to present basic vocational toolkits (livelihood starter kits) to graduates of two training programs. The programs included “Value Addition to Agricultural Products through Processing” for 21 participants, and a “Garment Sewing” course for 20 participants. The initiative aims to provide workers with essential tools to further develop their careers and sustainably support themselves and their families. The event was attended by Mr. Komes Piyaphan, Inspector-General of the Department of Skill Development; Mr. Sutthipan Ritthirut, Mayor of Chawang Subdistrict Municipality; Mr. Thammasak Phumisarn and Mr. Itthiphon Pluem, Deputy Mayors of Chawang Subdistrict Municipality; Mr. Apirat Inthanu, Secretary to the Mayor; Mrs. Kotchakorn Ritthirut, Advisor to the Mayor; and Ms. Suksri Laikasikam, Director of the Skill Development Institute 22 Nakhon Si Thammarat, who delivered the official report. Also in attendance were heads of government agencies, officials from the Ministry of Labor in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, local leaders, and community representatives. The ceremony took place at the Chawang Municipality Meeting Room in Chawang District. Speaking after the ceremony, Mr. Ari expressed his honor and appreciation […]
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 […]
May 26, 2025 – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, presided over and witnessed the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on preventing the use of child labour and forced labour in key product sectors, including shrimp, fish, sugarcane, garments, and downstream products (such as fishmeal, fish oil, and animal feed). The MOU was signed in collaboration with 12 public and private sector 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, Ms. Bubpha Rueangsud, the Department of Employment’s Director-General, Mr. Samat Pattamasukon, the Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour, Ms. Kanchana Poolkaew, the Ministry of Labour’s Inspector-General, Acting Second Lieutenant Somsak Promdam, the Ministry of Labour’s Inspector-General, Ms. Jirapa Boonrat, the Social Security Office’s Inspector-General, Mr. Krirkrai Nasamoyon, Legal Advisor, along with senior executives from the Ministry of Labour. The event was held at the 5th Floor Conference Room, Ministry of Labour Headquarters, aiming to enhance labour rights protection, build confidence among trade partners, and support […]
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 14.30 hours – Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, visited Phuket FantaSea Public Company Limited in Kathu District, Phuket, to inspect the management of migrant workers. This tourism-oriented company employs a diverse international workforce. The Minister encourages employers to hire legally and actively promote social security inclusion for migrant workers. He was accompanied by Mr. Siraphop Duangsodsri, Assistant to the Labour Minister, and Mr. Santi Nantasuwan, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour. Mr. Phiphat emphasized that integrating migrant workers into the social security system is more than worker protection—it’s a key pillar for sustainable economic growth in tourist regions. Migrants in the system receive healthcare, compensation, and other legal benefits, while employers enjoy legal certainty, enhancing Phuket’s image as a world-class tourism destination. At Phuket FantaSea, out of 902 employees, 195 are migrant workers (21.6%), all of whom are registered under Section 33 of the Social Security Act, demonstrating a model of legal and effective migrant labour management. According to the Phuket Provincial Labour Office, there are currently over 135,000 registered migrant workers in Phuket. Of these, more than 120,000 are from four main countries: Myanmar, Laos, […]
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 28, 2025 — Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, Minister of Labour, and Mr. Boonsong Thapchaiyut, Permanent Secretary of Labour, led a delegation of senior executives to Nakhon Phanom Province to conduct a comprehensive inspection of labour-related operations. The visit was in conjunction with the official Mobile Cabinet Meeting aimed at strengthening the grassroots economy in the Upper Northeastern Region 2 (Nakhon Phanom, Mukdahan, and Sakon Nakhon). Mr. Sakwiwat Khampong, President of the Nong Yang Chin Subdistrict Administrative Organization, also participated. Mr. Phiphat said that the visit included inspection of occupational promotion efforts, meetings with local labour networks, and engagement with labour volunteers to hear concerns, receive suggestions, and provide direct labour-related consultations, ensuring close support to workers in the province. A key highlight of the trip was the visit to the “Ban Na Hua Khua Tai Basketry Group” in Nong Yang Chin Subdistrict, Renu Nakhon District. This is a self-employed community enterprise of more than 40 households practicing sustainable bamboo weaving using rotational bamboo cultivation to reduce raw material costs. The group produces environmentally friendly products that are in line with the BCG Model. Thanks to this initiative, members now earn […]
