A group of construction workers commute to work on a songthaew in the bustling Rama IV area of Bangkok. (Photo: Apichart Jinakul)
The eagerly anticipated nationwide daily minimum wage hike to 400 baht has hit yet another snag. Initially slated for October 1, the increase has been postponed due to insufficient attendance at the wage committee meeting. This committee, comprising employees, government officials, and employer representatives, requires at least ten members present to form a quorum. Unfortunately, only nine showed up, leaving crucial decisions in limbo.
Permanent Secretary for Labour Pairoj Chotikasathien voiced his disappointment after Friday’s meeting. “We couldn’t proceed with the vote due to the lack of a quorum,” said Mr. Pairoj, explaining that without the necessary two-thirds of members present, they couldn’t finalize the wage rise matter. The discussions veered instead towards the potential impacts of the proposed wage hike, leaving crucial decisions still hanging in the balance.
Another meeting is on the calendar for next Tuesday. This upcoming discussion will once again attempt to hammer out the details of the wage rise proposal, aiming to cover companies or factories employing at least 200 workers. However, Mr. Pairoj admitted that even if an agreement is reached, presenting the proposal to the cabinet on October 1 means the wage increase won’t be introduced on that date as initially planned.
The drama surrounding the wage committee meetings has been ongoing. On Monday, the committee aimed to push forward with the government’s 400-baht minimum wage policy. However, five employer representatives were absent, citing other engagements. Mr. Pairoj emphasized that members must attend personally to cast their votes; proxies are not permissible.
Interestingly, some of the absentee members on Friday were from the government itself. Sources revealed that while all five employer representatives showed up, four government officials and two employee representatives were missing. Among the notable absentees was Poonpong Naiyanapakorn, Director of the Trade Policy and Strategy Office under the Commerce Ministry.
The business community has expressed reservations regarding the wage increase. Kriengkrai Thiennukul, Chairman of the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), argued that suggestions from provincial subcommittees should not be ignored. Economic indicators and the nation’s competitiveness must also be factored into the discussion, he said.
The FTI has discussed the matter extensively, expressing concerns that the wage rise could push vulnerable businesses into closure, potentially shaking overall confidence. Mr. Kriengkrai proposed a “pay by skill” solution, advocating for upskilling initiatives to meet market demands. “Half of the industries aren’t labor-intensive and are prepared to pay 700-900 baht for skilled workers, but these workers are hard to find,” he noted, calling for more nuanced discussions to prevent the issue from becoming a contentious debate.
Similarly, Songpol Changsiriwatthanathamrong, President of the Songkhla Chamber of Commerce, stated that the provincial chamber members opposed the 400-baht wage increase. Small- and medium-sized enterprises, often reliant on labor-intensive work and migrant workers, would be particularly hard hit.
Raising the daily minimum wage was a cornerstone of the Pheu Thai-led government’s election promises. The bold plan aims to increase the wage to 400 baht within the first year in power and to 600 baht by 2027. The tripartite committee already approved the 400-baht daily wage back on March 26, and it took preliminary effect in ten provinces on April 13. This included tourism hotspots like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Pattaya, as well as certain districts in Bangkok, applying to tourism-related businesses and four-star hotels with at least 50 employees.
The road to a nationwide 400-baht minimum wage is fraught with obstacles, but with continued negotiation and compromise, there’s optimism that a balanced solution can be achieved. Here’s hoping the next meeting will mark a significant step forward, paving the way for better wages and improved livelihoods for many Thai workers.
This delay is so frustrating! These workers have been waiting too long for fair pay.
It’s more complicated than that. The employers need to be considered too. Many small businesses might crumble.
Small businesses will always resist wage hikes, but the workers deserve a living wage.
Exactly, workers’ livelihoods should come first. If businesses can’t pay fair wages, maybe they shouldn’t be in business.
That’s an oversimplification. Not all businesses are exploiting their workers. There needs to be a balance.
It’s not just about being fair; it’s about being realistic. The economy can’t handle sudden jumps in wage rates.
Until the wage hike is in place, the workers will continue to suffer in poverty. It’s unacceptable.
True, but if businesses shut down because they can’t afford higher wages, where will the jobs be?
Improving worker skills and shifting to higher value industries is the solution, not keeping wages low.
Agreed. We need to focus on skill development rather than just wage increases.
Why can’t they have proxies? This is a national issue and needs more flexibility.
This backlog of meetings is a joke. They need to get their act together.
It’s bureaucratic red tape. So frustrating for everyone involved.
The government’s absenteeism speaks volumes. They aren’t serious about this issue at all.
Or maybe they’re just overwhelmed with other responsibilities. It’s unfair to judge without knowing the whole picture.
If it’s a priority, they’ll make time. Simple as that.
Agreed. They promised this wage hike, they need to follow through.
Interesting to see the split between big business and small business on this. The smaller ones always get the short end of the stick.
Education and training should go hand in hand with any wage increase.
It’s a Catch-22: Without higher wages, workers can’t improve their living standards, but sudden wage hikes could hurt the economy.
The wage discussion always overlooks migrant workers. They are the backbone of many industries.
Absolutely. They are often overlooked but crucial to the economy.
Politicians only care about citizens voting for them, not the migrant workers.
Why can’t they plan such an important meeting properly? It’s like they don’t care.
It’s a strategy. Delaying benefits some stakeholders more than implementing the policy.
Sad but true. It’s always politics over people.
The minimum wage push is unrealistic without considering regional disparities. Some areas can’t afford 400 baht.
The focus should be on long-term solutions like education and infrastructure, not just quick wage fixes.
Holding up wages hurts everyone. Prices will go up regardless, and workers need to catch up.
This entire thing is a mess. Can we have competent people running these committees?
The concept of a living wage is critical, but it needs to be sustainable. Balance is crucial.
I’m a construction worker, and even 400 baht isn’t enough. We need more support.
The problem is deeper than wages. We need comprehensive economic reforms.
Why are government officials not attending these meetings? Shows their lack of commitment.