Rising to the AI challenge

Many Thais have adopted it, but few have devised innovative solutions to meet local needs, writes Mongkol Bangprapa

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping nearly every sector of society - from state agencies and private businesses to independent organisations, education and the media.

Yet despite AI's growing presence, Thailand remains largely a technology taker rather than a technology maker, relying heavily on foreign platforms and expertise.

As the country faces both opportunities and risks from the accelerating adoption of AI, questions are emerging over readiness, regulation and longterm strategy.

The Bangkok Post spoke to politicians, regulators and academics to explore how Thailand is responding to the AI wave, the challenges it faces and how the technology could transform governance, communications and mass media.

Prime Minister's Office Minister Paradorn Prissananantakul, overseeing the Digital Government Development Agency (DGA), said the private sector has adapted quickly, with AI widely deployed to boost efficiency and competitiveness.

"In the private sector, AI is already being used extensively, and that is a positive development," Mr Paradorn said. "Of course, every technology has both benefits and drawbacks, but overall, AI has the potential to create significant value for the country."

However, he admitted the public sector has lagged behind, struggling to integrate AI into routine operations and public service delivery.

"The problem is not really about budgets or technology," he said. "It is more about understanding and mindset. Many civil servants are still hesitant and not sufficiently alert to how AI can be applied to their work."

Mr Paradorn said the government is ready to support AI adoption, but implementation remains slow at the operational level. Clear political direction, he argued, is critical.