National AI Board Pushes AI Technology Nationwide

Bangkok: National AI Board systematically drives AI technology nationwide, supporting full-scale development of AI personnel, keeping pace with changes in the future world. Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, Prime Minister, chaired the 1/2568 meeting of the National AI Committee, which was attended by various high-ranking officials, including Mr. Prasert Chantarawongthong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, and other representatives from relevant agencies.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sasikarn Wattanachan, Deputy Government Spokesperson, revealed that Prime Minister Shinawatra emphasized the rapid changes occurring globally and the importance of AI in addressing Thailand’s slow growth over the past decade. The government recognizes the need for continuous AI development to enhance Thailand’s competitive potential on the global stage.

The Prime Minister noted the establishment of the National AI Committee to oversee AI development across various sectors. This initiative is expected to be a pivotal force in advancing Thailand’s technological capabilities. The committee will focus on human development to foster a deeper understanding of AI, ensuring Thailand can adapt to global changes sustainably. The Prime Minister officially inaugurated the 1/2568 meeting of the National AI Committee for National Development.

The meeting reviewed the appointment of the National AI Committee, the progress of the National AI Action Plan for Thailand’s development (2022 – 2024), and preparations for hosting the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in 2025. Additionally, the meeting approved the National AI Development Framework (National AI Program), considering various proposals.

Key aspects of the National AI Action Plan include setting guidelines for developing AI manpower, targeting the creation of 10 million AI Users, 90,000 AI Developers, and 50,000 AI Professionals within two years. Investment in infrastructure such as cloud systems, data centers, and open-source AI platforms will be promoted to facilitate affordable technology applications. A data bank will also be established to collect valuable data for AI development.

The government aims to fully digitalize its agencies by 2026, with investment in these initiatives expected to reach at least 500 billion baht from both domestic and international sources. AI applications in business and industry will focus on sectors like public health, tourism, and agriculture, enhancing medical efficiency, boosting tourism, and improving agricultural productivity. The government will also support the establishment of centers of excellence to integrate AI efforts systematically in collaboration with the private sector.