Bangkok: The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is ready for inspection of the "TH-AI Passport," reiterating that the average cost is 27.50 baht per month. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry confirmed readiness for an audit of the project and stated that amendments are possible but must remain within the terms of reference (TOR). The cost per person will be 27.50 baht per month.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pachara Anantasilsin, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), revealed that the purpose of holding a forum to listen to and exchange opinions is to reduce risks and controversies surrounding this project, focusing on how to maximize benefits and minimize conflicts. He clarified that the Terms of Reference (TOR) and the contract are separate issues. The TOR serves as the final framework for the project, while amendments are possible but must remain within the TOR and be incorporated into the contract. The DE Ministry is prepared for scrutiny of the TH-AI Passport project, which aims to provide 5 million Thais-including general citizens, students, and young workers aged 15 and above-with immediate access to professional-grade AI tools. The government believes this initiative will transform the role of Thais from mere users of technology to creators capable of generating new innovations and increasing their income in the modern economy, ensuring equal opportunities for all.
The rate of AI technology penetration and usage among Thais and Thai businesses is currently quite low, at only 10.67 percent. In comparison, neighboring ASEAN countries like Vietnam have a figure of 23.5 percent, while leading technology nation Singapore has a staggering 60.9 percent. These figures indicate that Thailand is significantly lagging behind its regional competitors. However, the main issue being questioned by the public is the cost-effectiveness of using taxpayer money. The government and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE) have provided factual figures to clarify this. Mr. Pachara explained that when the total budget of the project, 1,621 million baht, is divided among the 5 million people to be eligible, the average cost is approximately 324 baht per person per year, or about 27.50 baht per person per month. The Ministry of DE aims to finalize this project by July 1st.