Julapun pledges support for families of Thai merchant seamen killed in Strait of Hormuz

Labour Minister Julapun Amornvivat has expressed his deepest condolences to the families of three Thai crew members who lost their lives aboard the vessel Mayuree Naree in an attack in the Strait of Hormuz.

Describing the incident as a "heartbreaking loss" that has impacted the nation, Julapun confirmed today that the Labour Ministry is moving swiftly to ensure all legal benefits are provided to the victims' families and to coordinate the return of their remains.

He stated that the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare has been in constant communication with the vessel's owner regarding compensation under the Maritime Labour Act B.E. 2558 (2015).

Under the law support, including a 50,000 baht in funeral expenses, is to be provided.

Additionally, their heirs will receive monthly compensation for a period of 10 years, capped at 14,000 baht per month, bringing the total potential compensation to a maximum of 1.68 million baht over the decade.

In addition to maritime-specific compensation, Julapun noted that all three crew members were previously registered under Section 33 of the Social Security Act.

"The Social Security Office in the relevant areas will urgently visit the families to process the disbursement of accumulated old-age pension funds and other entitlements as quickly as possible," he added.

Julapun emphasised that the Labour Ministry is also negotiating with the ship’s owners to secure additional remedial financial assistance for the grieving families.

"I want to assure the families that we will do our utmost to ensure that they receive ultimate fairness and support during this incredibly difficult time," he concluded.