Bangkok: The Deputy Government Spokesperson clarified the issue of the Thailand AI Passport, emphasizing that the contract is legally binding. He pointed out that it's time to manage the contract effectively, not to revert to debating the Terms of Reference (TOR), and that all opinions are being considered to maximize benefits for the public.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Lalida Periswiwatana, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, addressed comments made by Ms. Kardee Leowpairoj regarding the Thailand AI Passport project, specifically her suggestion that the Terms of Reference (TOR) could be reviewed or adjusted. Ms. Periswiwat stated that the government respectfully listens to all suggestions, but some points may reflect a misunderstanding regarding the legal status of the project and the government contract management process.
The deputy government spokesperson stated that the TH AI Passport project had its contract signed on April 7, 2026, and the procurement process was completed in full accordance with the law. Therefore, the government's current focus is not on drafting or revising the Terms of Reference (TOR), but rather on managing the contract to maximize benefits for the public and the country.
"Once a contract is binding, what government agencies must do is manage it as efficiently as possible, not go back and debate steps that have already been completed. If anyone still believes that the solution to every issue is to go back and amend the Terms of Reference (TOR), it may reflect an incomplete understanding of the government's post-signing contract process," said the deputy government spokesperson.
Ms. Lalida further stated that the government's clear principle is: "Contracts cannot be amended, but they can be improved if both parties agree, and the benefits to the state must not be reduced." This is the approach that the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society is currently pursuing.
'The government is not blocking suggestions. On the contrary, we are opening up space to listen to opinions from all parties in order to discuss them with our contractors and consider further improvements where possible. A key condition is that the benefits to the public and the state must not be reduced; they can increase, but they cannot decrease,' the deputy government spokesperson said.
Regarding the issue of the fact that the first installment has not yet been paid, thus allowing for a review of the project, the deputy government spokesperson clarified that payment does not determine the legal status of the contract, as the contract is binding from the date of signing. Furthermore, the inspection of the first installment of work is merely a standard procedure in contract management.
"Payment is not the beginning of a contract, and withholding payment does not mean the project can be canceled or dismantled at will. Public sector project management must adhere to existing laws and obligations, not to feelings or political trends," the deputy government spokesperson said.
Regarding the public hearing on the TH AI Passport project on June 11, 2026, the deputy government spokesperson confirmed that the event was organized with the genuine intention of gathering opinions from all sectors. The Minister of Digital Economy and Society will personally attend, and the contractors will also be invited to participate and provide feedback directly. This will allow valuable opinions to be discussed collaboratively and contribute to the project's development and efficiency.
"Pre-judging the forum as merely a whitewashing ploy before it even takes place is regrettable, as it may make citizens who wish to express their opinions feel hesitant or anxious, even though every opinion is valuable and the government is ready to utilize it," the deputy government spokesperson said.
The deputy government spokesperson added that the government is not fixated on any particular method, but rather focuses on the goal of providing widespread and equitable access to AI technology for all citizens, as well as enhancing the country's long-term competitiveness.
"National development is the government's responsibility, while the opposition has the duty to scrutinize and offer suggestions. The government is always willing to listen, but requests that criticism be based on complete facts and legal considerations. The ultimate goal for all parties should be the benefit of the people and the future of the country."