On November 12, 2021, at 08.30 hours, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Labour Ms. Bubpha Rueangsud presided over the seminar’s opening to listen to opinions on the (draft) wage rates according to skill standards in 16 branches, batch 2, occupation group in the construction sector. The meeting took place at the Prasong Rananant meeting room, 5th floor, Ministry of Labour. She said that the wage rates according to skill standards are the government’s policy to protect both employees and employers for the benefit and fairness to both parties. For new workers entering the production sector, if they are first-time workers, they will be covered under the minimum wage rate. Over time, they can develop themselves to be more skillful by assessing their skill standards. Once the criteria are met, they will receive an increase in wages. They can be promoted and have an increase in salary according to the skill hierarchy. Employers will benefit by being able to continually develop their employees and have personnel with knowledge, abilities, skills, and good attitudes towards work. They can set wages for those who pass the national skill standard test, have a hiring plan, and determine the wage structure. Businesses can develop product quality to meet standards that are accepted domestically and internationally, in line with the direction and needs of the business sector, which will enhance the country’s competitiveness. The initiative will also reduce conflicts about employees’ wage rates because there is a skill standard that determines the wage rate of workers. At present, the Ministry of Labour has announced wage rates according to skill standards enforced in 96 branches. The Wage Committee recently announced the Wage Rates According to Skill Standards No. 10 for 13 branches in 3 occupation groups, effective from July 15, 2021.
Ms. Buppha added that she would like to take this opportunity to invite everyone to share their opinions and give suggestions to setting wage rates according to skill standards in all 16 fields to be in line with the reality in the Thai labour market. The Ministry of Labour will use the recommendations received from participants today to present to the Wage Committee for further consideration.
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Division of Public Relations
12 November 2021
