Countdown to chaos: Thai experts sound alarm over migrant worker registration

10 Sept 12:01 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's new policy mandates 2.3 million migrant workers from Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam to register or renew work permits by February 13, 2024, or risk criminalization and exploitation.
The five-step registration process is criticized for being overly complicated, costly (over 21,000 baht), and time-consuming, with online system failures hindering compliance within the tight deadline.
Experts warn the stringent timeframe and complex procedures could push millions into illegal status, increasing vulnerability to human trafficking, corruption, and abuse, especially for Myanmar nationals due to their home country's turmoil.
Critics urge the government to simplify the process, establish one-stop service centers, extend the deadline, and reconsider the current approach to protect vital migrant labor and prevent widespread chaos.

Nationwide crackdown launched on illegal nominee shareholders and land holdings

Today 15:20 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul initiated a nationwide crackdown on illegal Thai nominee shareholders in foreign-run businesses and land holdings to safeguard national interests.
The government will integrate efforts across all relevant agencies to target illicit foreign operations, forced sales of illegally acquired property, and high-risk land ownership schemes.
Key strategies include auditing suspect land and building holdings, establishing a long-term monitoring system, and cross-referencing data from various authorities to trace ultimate beneficial owners.
Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that no influential figures or corrupt officials are above the law, promising straightforward prosecution, asset seizures, and protection for enforcing officers.
Beyond land ownership, the integrated crackdown will also extend to tackle transnational crimes, including drug and human trafficking.