Bangkok: The Ministry of Labour is urgently addressing the shortage of foreign workers following the gradual return of Cambodian laborers to their country, affecting businesses in various sectors. The ministry emphasizes that it has measures in place to alleviate the burden on both workers and employers, along with job placement and vocational training programs.
According to Thai News Agency, at a joint press conference on the Thai-Cambodian situation at the Royal Thai Army Television Station, Mr. Mongkol Songkram, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Employment, explained the measures to address the shortage of foreign workers, especially Cambodian workers who have returned to their homeland, affecting Thai businesses in many areas.
The Deputy Director-General of the Department of Employment stated that the Ministry of Labour has been closely monitoring the situation, both for workers and employers, and has measures in place to address unemployment, labor migration, and provide assistance to affected workers, including those residing in shelters.
In terms of relief measures, the Ministry of Labour has integrated its affiliated agencies, such as the Social Security Office, to oversee unemployment benefits, severance pay, and social security rights. Meanwhile, the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare is monitoring wage payments, unpaid wages, and employee work stoppages during this exceptional situation.
In addition, the Department of Skill Development has organized vocational training within shelters to provide workers and those affected with additional professional skills that can be used to find employment when the situation improves.
Meanwhile, the Department of Employment has provided job opportunities for workers in safe areas and coordinated labor mobility to suit the situation. The Ministry of Labour reiterated that it is concerned about both workers and employers and is ready to provide full assistance.
Regarding the management of foreign workers, currently numbering approximately 3 million, the Ministry of Labour has instructed employers to properly supervise, control, and monitor their workers within the workplace. They also requested cooperation in refraining from any expressions or actions that could cause social unrest or conflict.
Workers or employers requiring assistance or further information can contact the Ministry of Labour hotline at 1506, available 24 hours a day.