The second cohort of students from the advanced certificate program in regulation and legal development for broadcasting, television, and telecommunications organized a public academic forum titled "Transforming Thailand towards a Future of Digital Services for Thai Society." The event aimed to foster dialogue on digital transformation in the country.
This initiative was a collaboration between the King Prajadhipok’s Institute, the Broadcasting and Telecommunications Research and Development Fund for Public Benefit (BTRDF), and the Office of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
Its objective was to develop leaders from government, private sector, academia, and media with a systemic vision for regulating the country's digital infrastructure. The goal was to enhance understanding of the management and regulation context for broadcasting, television, and telecommunications services, preparing stakeholders for change and developing management and regulatory mechanisms through analytical policy recommendations produced by program participants.
During the study period, students produced 120 individual and 8 group in-depth academic works covering eight key topics:
1. Space industry
2. Satellite communications
3. Disaster warning systems
4. Future radio and television industries
5. Telecommunications infrastructure
6. Smart city development and autonomous vehicles
7. Artificial intelligence and applications
8. Cybercrime prevention and suppression
Regarding cybercrime prevention and suppression, a proposal was made to establish a Trust List enabling the public to verify information and enhance transparency to prevent cyber fraud, based on the C2PA standard. Current online platforms cannot fully control users, so it is hoped the NBTC will integrate this with Thai media producers to protect citizens from scams. Indirectly, this could also build digital trust and attract investors.
In disaster warning, Thailand faced major challenges last year with earthquakes and flooding in Hat Yai, revealing vulnerabilities at national and local levels involving up to 48 agencies across 13 ministries, causing data errors. The recommendation is to implement AI combined with Big Data analytics for crisis management to reduce errors, along with long-term legal reforms. Examples cited include successful models from Japan and the United States.
For the future of radio and television, over 10 million households still use satellite services. During the 5G spectrum auction, the replacement for C-Band technology has not yet reached all homes. The year 2029 is seen as a critical turning point for television, marking the end of concessions. There is a strong call for swift decisions, as media roadmaps require planning over 3-5 years. Another key issue is that revenues largely flow abroad since platform owners are foreign, resulting in minimal financial returns to Thai media operators.
Regarding smart city development and autonomous vehicles, the concept of a “smart city” has existed since 2003. Despite abundant technology in Bangkok, the city lacks true smartness due to obstacles such as fragmented governance, digital inequality, and limited local capacity. It was proposed that the NBTC act like a conductor of an orchestra to guide city development focused not just on technology but on meeting residents’ needs.
In telecommunications infrastructure, Thailand’s global competitiveness is declining, with slower speeds compared to other countries. The focus remains on quantity over quality, with redundant investments amounting to about 10% annually—roughly 80 billion baht, or 3% of GDP. Efficient management could strategically advance progress. Recommendations include a three-phase approach: short-term legal unlocking, medium-term restructuring of personnel and resources, and long-term integration of national platforms.
In artificial intelligence and its applications, AI is transforming many dimensions of life. The challenge is to prevent AI from becoming harmful, such as through fake news or credibility damage, which pose dual risks in telecommunications. Other countries have begun regulating AI. Proposed pillars include flexible oversight, innovation testing spaces, governance and public protection, and digital sovereignty. There is confidence that artificial intelligence will not surpass human intelligence.
Concerning the space industry, Thailand has historically been a technology consumer. The question is how to shift toward the New Space Economy by viewing space commercially to generate significant economic value, akin to revenue streams from AM radio waves in the past. It is believed this could revolutionize the world again.
Finally, on satellite communications, signal problems arose during crises such as the Hat Yai floods, where infrastructure collapsed alongside disasters, showing coverage limitations. The Space Economy is projected to reach one trillion baht by 2040, with 70-80% coming from satellite communication services. AI will be essential for network management and operational efficiency. There is confidence in Thai private sector readiness, with a recommendation for government support without hindering progress.
