On July 4, 2021, Labour Minister Mr. Suchart Chomklin spoke about the BrightTV.co.th website, which had published news on “We have reached this point! Unemployed workers are asking for food on Pattaya beach, facing Covid-19 effects without support from the government.” From investigations on this matter, it was found that the news was old news, dated on June 15 to 16. A businessman who is a philanthropist in the Pattaya area of Chonburi donated rice, dry foods, and food boxes to people affected by Covid-19 around Pattaya beach. The people who came for the food were diverse. Pattaya city officials facilitated the organization, ensuring social distancing, which has been done since the beginning of the Covid-19 outbreaks. Those wishing to donate food must inform the local government to help facilitate, ensure social distancing and order according to the measures prescribed by the Ministry of Public Health.
Mr. Suchart said that the government had implemented several measures to remedy employees. Measures include the “Section 33 We Love Each Other” program, proactive Covid-19 screening, vaccinations for insured persons, and the payment of unemployment benefits due to force majeure from Covid-19 to workers in campsites, amounting to 50 percent of their wages for a month. The story of philanthropists donating food to people affected by Covid-19 at Pattaya beach is considered normal. Sometimes it is Thai people; sometimes it is foreigners who donate foods and items, sharing the kindness and the generosity of the private sector to the public.
“Those with ill-intent creating fake news is something that shouldn’t be done, as it will make people feel discouraged and communities will misunderstand. During these times especially, the nation needs unity and reconciliation. Sharing and support will enable us all to overcome the Covid-19 pandemic together,” said Mr. Suchart.
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Division of Public Relations
4 July 2021
