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Thailand has been making strides in transforming cities into smart cities. Commencing with Bang Chan City, the country aims to intensify its efforts in smart city development.
The first smart city in Thailand, Bang Chan, leads in 5G rollout and IoT integration, with smart cities being a core element of the Thailand 4.0 vision, focusing on Industry 4.0 sectors like robotics, automation, aviation, logistics, and agriculture. The country aims to enhance urban management while maintaining its distinct social fabric and improving the urban residents’ quality of life.
Mr Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn, the Minister of Digital Economy and Society (DES), led the 1/2023 Smart City Project Steering and Management Sub-Committee meeting. This gathering was a pivotal platform for evaluating and deliberating proposals for a comprehensive smart city development plan in six crucial areas.
A smart city is an urban setting that leverages technology and innovation to optimise capacity, management efficiency, and resource utilisation. Unlike traditional cities relying on physical infrastructure and manual processes, smart cities utilise data-driven automation, ultimately improving the well-being of their residents.
During the meeting, the committee members rigorously assessed the various proposals, considering each initiative’s potential impact and benefits. The aim was to craft a visionary blueprint that would effectively drive the growth and advancement of smart cities in Thailand.
An integral aspect of the meeting’s agenda involved the decision to announce the Thailand Smart City logo award. The logo represents a symbol of excellence and recognition, signifying cities that have made significant strides in harnessing technology and innovation to elevate urban living standards and facilitate sustainable development.
Furthermore, the committee members embarked on a journey by proposing the inclusion of three provinces, namely Khon Kaen, Chiang Mai, and Rayong, into the ASEAN Smart City network. This strategic move strengthens Thailand’s position as a leading proponent of smart city endeavours and fosters regional collaboration and cooperation to tackle shared challenges and promote inclusive growth.
The meeting boasted a lineup of attendees, including Professor Wisit Wisitsorn-at, the esteemed Permanent Secretary for Digital Economy and Society, whose expertise and guidance added immense value to the proceedings. The gathering also witnessed the presence of Assistant Professor Dr Nattaphon Nimmanphatcharin, the visionary Director-General of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa), whose dedication to driving digital innovation and empowerment in Thailand is commendable.
Additionally, representatives from relevant ministries and agencies played a crucial role in the proceedings, showcasing the strong commitment of various stakeholders to the cause of smart city development and digital transformation in the country.
Mr Chaiwut envisioned Smart cities to offer many advantages that transform urban living into a more efficient, sustainable, and connected experience. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and data-driven solutions, smart cities enhance transportation systems, optimise resource usage, and promote eco-friendly practices, improving efficiency and sustainability.
With advanced infrastructure, seamless connectivity, and real-time data analysis, smart cities enable data-driven decision-making for urban planning, public services, and emergency response, resulting in safer and more secure environments.
These transformative initiatives not only elevate the quality of life for residents through improved mobility and access to healthcare and recreational facilities but also attract investments and foster economic growth, establishing a more dynamic and prosperous urban landscape in the future.
“With the “people first” mindset, a smart city is a livable urban environment, effective in its organisation and management,” concluded Mr Chaiwut
