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In a significant step towards bolstering personal data protection in Thailand, Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DE), inaugurated the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPA Centre). The service centre, operating under the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, aims to serve as a hub for addressing complaints and offering advice on personal data protection. The centre, officially known as the PDPA Centre, was unveiled during a ceremony attended by key government officials and stakeholders.
The PDPA Centre has a multifaceted role, primarily focused on providing comprehensive protection for personal information. Minister Prasert emphasised the centre’s commitment to building public confidence and meeting the evolving needs of various sectors. The establishment of the PDPA Centre also signifies an expansion of communication channels for citizens and diverse agencies, facilitating a more accessible way to contact the Office of the Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC).
During the ceremony, awards for outstanding personal data protection officers were presented by Mr Suthikiat Veerakijpanich, Advisor to the Minister of Digital Affairs, and other notable figures in the digital landscape. The event was attended by Mr Wanlop Ruchirakorn, Secretary to the Minister of Digital Affairs, Mr Wetang Puangsap, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Affairs, and Mr Phuchapong Nodthaisong, Secretary-General of the National Digital Economy and Society Committee.
In his address, Minister Prasert highlighted the proactive measures taken by the PDPC over the past two months. More than 5,000 cases of personal data leaks were intercepted, leading to the arrest of five individuals involved in the illegal trading of personal data. The ministry has issued strict directives to prevent and suppress such activities, collaborating with the Police Investigation Bureau, particularly the Cyber Police, to investigate and apprehend offenders involved in technological crimes.
The PDPA Centre is set to play a pivotal role in safeguarding personal data through its diverse services, which include:
- Advisory and Answering Service Centre: Offering guidance on PDPA laws to individuals and organisations.
- Complaints Service Centre: Receive and address complaints related to non-compliance with PDPA laws.
- Personal Data Violation Surveillance Centre (PDPC Eagle Eye): Proactively monitors and responds to potential personal data violations.
- Knowledge and Academic Service Centre: Providing educational resources on personal data protection.
- Coordination Centre for Personal Data Protection Officers (DPO): Offering guidance on principles for regulating personal data protection.
- Cooperation in Personal Data Protection Centre: Fostering collaboration among various stakeholders to enhance personal data protection.
- Promotion and Standards Centre: Advocating for and promoting personal data protection standards.
The PDPA Centre is housed at the Public Service Centre on the 1st floor of the NT Customer Service Centre Building in Laksi, Bangkok. This strategic location aims to ensure accessibility for individuals seeking assistance with personal data protection matters.
With the official launch of the PDPA Centre, Thailand takes a significant stride towards fortifying its digital landscape and ensuring the security and privacy of personal information in the digital age. The centre’s comprehensive approach underscores the government’s commitment to creating a safer and more secure online environment for its citizens.
The PDPA Centre in Thailand is a pivotal hub for implementing and enforcing the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), signalling the nation’s dedication to safeguarding individuals’ personal information.
The PDPA Centre in Thailand is poised to play a dynamic role in shaping the country’s future of data protection and privacy. As the PDPA Centre looks ahead, its commitment to innovation, collaboration, and adaptability will be crucial in ensuring that Thailand remains at the forefront of global efforts to protect personal data. By embracing these forward-looking strategies, the centre will not only uphold the principles of the PDPA but also serve as a beacon for other nations striving to create a secure and privacy-respecting digital landscape.
