Tie-up to develop Thai large language model

AI alliance marks a 'foundational step'

- SUCHIT LEESA-NGUANSUK

The National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA) has partnered with Siam AI Corporation to launch a Thai large language model (LLM), marking a foundational step for Thailand's artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and sovereign Al strategy.

The initiative is backed by a 300-million-baht investment from Siam AI.

Sukit Limpijumnong, president of NSTDA, said during the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Siam AI Corporation last Friday that the collaboration supports the development of the Thai LLM, a model which should understand Thai context and culture.

He said that having a native Thai LLM is a crucial component for the country's digital infrastructure, fostering the growth of AI development in the Thai language.

The project will play a vital role in advancing AI development tailored to Thailand's needs, fostering innovation in digital services, and enhancing the nation's competitiveness, said Mr Sukit.

NSTDA plans to support deep research and development of a sandbox for proof of concept, as well as cultivate a skilled workforce in collaboration with Siam AI to strengthen the research ecosystem in the long term, he said.