Bangkok: The government is advancing the "Digital Twin Thailand" initiative to enhance its planning and problem-solving capabilities through the creation of digital twins. This strategic move aims to transform traditional map data into a dynamic tool for visualizing and experimenting with future scenarios.
According to Thai News Agency, the project will leverage satellite data and cutting-edge technologies, including AI, to anticipate future scenarios, plan for natural disasters such as floods and droughts, manage land resources, develop urban areas, and improve disaster response strategies. Captain Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, highlighted the government's commitment to upgrading the use of geospatial information from mere databases and maps to a more integrated and analytical approach. The initiative is part of the National Geospatial Information Action Plan 2028-2032.
This initiative was born from the 1st National Geoinformatics Committee meeting in 2026, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, Mr. Yotsanu Wongsawat. The meeting focused on harnessing Thailand's data resources to facilitate AI applications and data processing technologies, transitioning from static map views to predictive analytics and laying the groundwork for a smart economy.
Captain Patthadarasmi explained that a Digital Twin links various national data types, including spatial, infrastructure, and environmental data, alongside satellite and sensor inputs, to simulate scenarios and evaluate potential impacts before actual decisions are made. Unlike traditional maps, Digital Twins can forecast outcomes of hypothetical events, aiding in preemptive planning for floods, droughts, urban development, and infrastructure impacts.
For the public, this system will address key issues like water management, climate adaptation, land and agricultural management, urban planning, and disaster response. It aims to align government planning with real-world conditions across different regions.
The initiative encompasses three concurrent areas: developing an interconnected geospatial database with "One Map" at its core, employing AI to analyze vast data arrays, and creating a virtual model of Thailand to support informed decision-making.
Mr. Yotsanu highlighted international examples where Digital Twins have been used to simulate aquatic ecosystems for better fisheries management, showcasing how accurate data supports effective resource management and balances economic development with conservation efforts.
The deputy spokesperson emphasized that this upgrade in geospatial information is foundational for using data in governance, promoting inter-agency data connectivity, reducing redundancy, and enabling real-time analysis and decision-making.
"The goal is to transition from viewing maps to visualizing and forecasting Thailand's future, ensuring government decisions are fact-based, leading to precise planning, damage reduction, and solutions that better serve the populace," stated the Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister.