The Social Security Office (SSO) is under scrutiny after a board member revealed significant delays affecting millions of insured workers and senior citizens in Thailand. Over four million contributors are awaiting access to dental benefits, and more than 570,000 elderly individuals have not received revised pension payments. Sustarum Thammaboosadee, a board member, criticized management practices and highlighted issues with procurement projects and public hearing processes.
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The concerns point to systemic inefficiencies within the SSO. Mr. Sustarum is part of the Progressive Social Security Team, which has pushed for reforms, advocating for a national reform agenda that focuses on transparency and accountability. Despite having limited board representation, the team has revealed systemic issues and pushed for change in the organization’s culture, advocating for reforms that transcend political divides.
Looking forward, the Progressive Social Security Team plans to propose reforms after the upcoming general election, focusing on livelihood issues. They aim to contest 14 board seats in elections anticipated in May. This will be Mr. Sustarum’s last campaign, emphasizing the need for collective action to maintain fairness in the social security system.
Recently, a social security reform working group, led by Pol Lt Col Wannapong Kotcharak, gathered to address key issues like bureaucratic rigidity and lack of transparency. This group, which includes various stakeholders, has 60 days to formulate concrete proposals. The next meeting, set for February 20, aims to finalize data and frameworks essential for moving forward with reforms, reported Bangkok Post.
Key Takeaways
Over four million workers are missing out on new dental benefits.
570,000 elderly citizens await updated pension payments.
Reform efforts focus on transparency and improved management.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now · Bangkok Post · 11 Feb 2026
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