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Thailand’s Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) has adopted electronic documents and digital signatures through the Thai University Consortium’s (TUC) digital certification system. Developed by Khon Kaen University, this innovative system enables departments and universities under MHESI to conduct electronic operations and communication free of charge.
As the MHESI announced the availability of the TUC system, Asst Prof Denpong Soodphakdee, PhD, Vice President for Digital of Khon Kaen University, explained the system’s origins. During the Covid-19 pandemic, efficient remote work tools became crucial. The university’s Digital Transformation policy emphasised reducing paper-based document dispatch, leading to the development and adoption of reliable digital documents that comply with the 2001 Act of Electronics Transaction. This initiative included using digital signatures certified by a system known as the Certification Authority (CA).
It is proved that the shift towards electronic documents has been accelerating in Thailand, with an increasing focus on reducing the use of paper-based documents. For instance, Thailand and the UK have collaborated to establish a paperless trade corridor to reduce international trade costs, complexities, and environmental impacts through digitalisation and adoption of electronic documents. This initiative is part of Thailand’s National Digital Economy Strategy Plan (2023 – 2027), which aims to develop legal frameworks and standards to promote the Electronic Transactions Act, electronic signatures, electronic documents, and digital identities.
Further, the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) covers all personal data, including online, offline, and paper-based documents, and applies to local and foreign businesses operating in Thailand or offering products or services to individuals in the country.
The success of Khon Kaen University’s implementation of the electronic document system, designed not only for internal use but also for national-level organisations, led to its adoption by 7-8 other universities certified by the TUC. The system’s acceptance is attributed to its reliability, convenience, speed, and cost-effectiveness. Notably, using TUC digital certification significantly reduces the cost of purchasing digital signatures, which would otherwise cost 1,500 baht/person. Khon Kaen University has issued over 12,000 digital signatures, resulting in an annual cost reduction of at least 15 million baht.
Moreover, implementing the TUC system has contributed to a 40% reduction in paper usage at Khon Kaen University over the past four years. Recognising the success, the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation established the Thai University Consortium Certification Authority (TUC-CA) in June 2023. The MHESI Minister announced the e-Document policy and designated TUC-CA as ministerial regulations, signifying broader adoption of the digital signature system across 114 organisations and universities.
Dr Kit Tiantanopajai, Assistant to the President for Digital, shed light on the development process of the TUC system, emphasising the importance of building trust among users. TUC acts as a Trusted Third Party, certifying sub-organisations that, in turn, certify individuals under their affiliation.
The system utilises the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), a widely used framework abroad. TUC’s advantage lies in its compatibility with all PDF Readers, including Adobe and Foxit, ensuring certification and auditing capabilities. This significantly reduces the risk of signature and document forgery and streamlines the management of various electronic documents.
In the future, the TUC system is poised for widespread adoption. While considering personal information security, users are reminded to safeguard their digital IDs and passwords. Future developments include creating TUC applications for Adobe and Foxit that can be used on tablets and smartphones, enhancing convenience and efficiency in the digital age. Thailand’s commitment to digital innovation in higher education marks a significant step towards a more streamlined and secure electronic document environment.
“The shift towards electronic documents is ongoing, driven by the advantages of digital storage, accessibility, and workflow efficiency,” explained Assistant Professor Denpong.
