Bangkok: The government has declared that artificial intelligence (AI) serves as the infrastructure for the new global intelligent economy. Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, responded to Rakchanok Srinok's video which criticized the "TH AI Passport" project initiated by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society. She emphasized that AI is not comparable to outdated applications, but rather a new infrastructure crucial for the Thai economy.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida addressed the comparison made by Rakchanok, clarifying that AI technology differs fundamentally from past government applications. She stated that generative AI is a foundational technology impacting various economic sectors, similar to electricity and the internet. Ms. Lalida highlighted that AI is essential for the global economy, and Thais must have access to it to remain competitive in education, careers, and business.
The TH AI Passport project aims to consolidate AI tools on a central platform in line with the government's National Super App approach, which seeks to streamline digital services and enhance public access. Ms. Lalida addressed concerns about the cost of AI services, noting that high-level AI services currently cost around 700-1,000 baht per month, posing a burden on students and small business owners. The project is part of the Digital Economy and Society Development Fund's mission to reduce digital costs and technological inequality.
Furthermore, the project operates under a "Learn to Earn" system, where individuals must complete AI learning and skill development before accessing advanced AI tools. An automatic access rotation system will ensure efficient use of resources, maximizing benefits for the public and government budget.
Ms. Lalida pointed out that many countries are enhancing digital skills and access to AI, recognizing it as essential economic infrastructure. She also cited cost-effectiveness, explaining that centralized procurement reduced expenses from an estimated 36 billion baht to 1.6 billion baht annually, demonstrating the benefits of state-level bargaining power.
The government, led by Anutin Charnvirakul, is committed to developing digital skills among Thais, ensuring equal access to future technologies to maintain Thailand's competitive edge in the global AI economy. Ms. Lalida concluded by affirming the government's openness to scrutiny, urging criticism to be based on an understanding of AI's role in the evolving global economy.