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Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong, Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DE), delivered a lecture titled “Digital Technology and Enhancing the Quality of Life for Thai Citizens” in March, focusing on Next Eco-System Tech & Sustainability. His discourse underscored the pivotal role of digital technology in transforming and elevating the quality of life for Thai citizens.
Digital technology has emerged as a critical driver in improving the quality of life for Thai citizens in various ways. In Thailand alone, the Thai government has implemented initiatives to promote digital transformation, such as Thailand 4.0, which aims to transform the country into a digital economy driven by innovation, technology, and creativity. The government has also published a 20-year Thailand Digital Economy and Society Development Plan (Digital Thailand Plan) to provide long-term policy goals with actionable and measurable targets.
At this lecturing occasion, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has championed the “The New Growth Engine of Thailand” policy, which comprises three core components: upgrading digital capabilities, enhancing digital security, and developing the digital workforce.
The Ministry recognises the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in bridging societal inequalities. Specifically, the development of Generative AI by leading global companies is poised to enhance work skills and livelihoods, fostering effective coexistence between humans and AI, often called Co-pilots. For instance, Co-pilots can assist in writing and summarising articles, analysing crucial information for decision-making, and creating desired images or videos.
Mr Prasert’s address emphasised the transformative potential of digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), and data analytics, in addressing key societal challenges and fostering sustainable development. He elaborated on how these technologies can be leveraged to improve public services, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability, ultimately enhancing the overall well-being of Thai citizens.
In the same session, he further discussed the Next Eco-System Tech & Sustainability, a framework aimed at promoting the use of digital technology to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly society. This framework includes initiatives such as the National AI Service Platform and the Thai Large Language Model (Thai LLM), designed to enhance Thailand’s digital infrastructure and promote innovation in the digital economy.
Nevertheless, integrating AI with human endeavours necessitates the development of mechanisms to reduce societal inequalities and prevent AI from exacerbating existing disparities. Under the AI Agenda flagship in 2024, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has outlined a comprehensive plan to achieve this, including Establishing rules and standards to regulate AI usage.
Developing a central AI infrastructure accessible to the public sector. Educating the public on AI usage and nurturing AI talent. Encouraging and supporting AI adoption by the government, private industry, and citizens. Mr Prasert emphasised, “Enhancing the quality of life for Thai citizens through digital technology requires the development of a robust digital infrastructure, creating cybersecurity mechanisms, and promoting essential digital skills. With collaboration from all sectors, digital technology can uplift Thai citizens in every aspect of life.”
Moreover, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society recognises the importance of proactively addressing root causes and preventing cyber threats through reactive measures to enhance the cyber resilience of every Thai citizen. Efforts to eliminate online dangers both domestically and internationally are underway through regional and global cooperation.
Additionally, the Ministry aims to enhance Thai citizens’ awareness through a “Cyber Vaccine” programme, ensuring they are well informed about potential dangers and equipped with essential digital skills.
Mr Prasert Chandraruangthong also highlighted the role of the government in supporting digital technology initiatives and ensuring that they are accessible to all citizens. He emphasised the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving digital innovation and creating a sustainable future for Thailand.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society’s initiatives underscore Thailand’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to enhance citizens’ quality of life while prioritising cybersecurity and digital skill development to ensure inclusivity and progress for all.
