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Thailand believes that collaboration is paramount to fostering digital transformation faster. The country has been actively promoting digital construction and improving its technological capabilities to achieve its vision for digital development. To gain more collaboration, Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DE), along with Dr Natthaphon Natthasomboon, Deputy Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, led a delegation to the Mobile World Congress 2024 (MWC) in Barcelona, Spain, this February 2024. Their visit aimed to bolster investment cooperation and fortify the digital ecosystem in Thailand.
During the congress, Mr Prasert expressed gratitude for the support from the private sector in driving Thailand’s digital development following the urgent policies of 2024. He emphasised the importance of increasing international competitiveness and ensuring the security and safety of the country’s citizens in the digital realm. The delegation engaged with various technology companies, aiming to explore avenues for collaboration in digital transformation.
The technology companies participating in the congress reiterated their dedication to supporting Thailand’s digital transformation across critical sectors, including the National Government Network, National Communication Network, Cloud First Policy, and Data & AI Platform. This commitment aligns with the memorandum of understanding signed between the Ministry and the technology company, which aims to accelerate Thailand’s digital development.
Another tech-cloud company showcased its cloud services to strengthen the digital economy and enhance digital capabilities in Thailand. The company also highlighted the Sovereign Cloud Infrastructure system, which ensures data security for the country. One of the Norwegian telecommunication companies discussed collaboration opportunities to promote 5G technology and digital platforms and support start-ups to bridge the digital divide in Thailand.
Another tech company presented its Generative AI technology, which operates on its Cloud, showcasing its potential to elevate Thailand’s digital landscape. The delegation also visited the satellite internet technology company, which offers internet services in remote areas and promotes public health and education through satellite-based internet applications. Additionally, T3 Technology presented computer solutions integrating AI, Cloud, and IoT technologies, including smart household appliances and offices.
Moreover, Mr Prasert and his delegation also attended the GSMA Ministerial Programme under MWC 2024. The GSMA Ministerial Programme is a significant forum for policymakers and global industry leaders within the mobile ecosystem and related sectors. This event gathers leading figures in the digital domain to provide insights and strategies on key policy areas such as 5G expansion, artificial intelligence, digital inclusion, and climate action.
Discussions centred on regulating AI in the telecommunications and industrial sectors with an ethical compass. Defining corporate AI ethics guidelines was emphasised, highlighting the need for collaboration in the digital ecosystem to ensure future Generative AI is neutral and beneficial to society.
The Minister and the delegation also engaged in bilateral discussions with GSMA APAC executives, discussing ways to drive Thailand’s digital development under the new engine policy, “The Growth Engine of Thailand.” GSMA executives praised Thailand’s progress in developing the 5G network, ranking it first in the ASEAN region. They expressed interest in co-organising Thailand’s Asia-Pacific 5G Summit to continue exchanging 5G technology development guidelines. Discussions also included digital innovation, AI technology and governance, information exchange, national digital growth, and cybersecurity.
Mr Prasert’s visit to the MWC 2024 in Barcelona was instrumental in advancing Thailand’s digital transformation agenda. Engagement with technology companies and participation in high-level forums underscore Thailand’s commitment to embracing digital technology for economic growth and societal advancement.
After attending this congress and meeting with multiple stakeholders, companies, and ministries around countries in Barcelona, Mr Prasert, as a representative of Thailand, gained valuable insights into the latest trends and innovations in digital technology. The knowledge and connections he has acquired at the Mobile World Congress 2024 will be crucial in driving Thailand’s digital transformation agenda forward, ensuring that the country remains competitive and innovative in the digital age.
