Thailand’s unemployment rate still low

BANGKOK, March 13 (TNA) -- The unemployment rate in Thailand is still low despite prevailing severe drought and economy slowdown, according to a government spokesman. Maj Gen Sansern Kaewkamnerd, a spokesman of the Prime Minister's Office, said the government is closely monitoring employment situation in the country and has found that there are still many jobs available in the country on the condition that newly graduates must not be choosy and to also use government’s measures in further developing their occupations. The government has given high confident on its programmes to stimulate monetary system during the beginning of this year, he said, adding that these programmes include providing five million baht to each tambon, providing loans amounting one million baht to each tambon through Village Fund programme and offering soft loans to small and medium-sized enterprises. Maj Gen Sansern said the government plans to invest in mega infrastructure projects, public transportation, irrigation and housing from middle until late this year. These projects will create plenty of jobs. He said the Labour Ministry disclosed that there are presently 39,984 jobs available while the vehicle industry needs more than 200,000 personnel. Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-ocha has ordered the Labour Ministry to monitor the employment situation, especially after newly graduates leave colleges and they need jobs, said Maj Gen Sansern, adding that unemployment rate in Thailand is “still low” compared to several countries. (TNA)