28-7-2023 (BANGKOK) The Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DES) made a significant announcement on Thursday, stating that three additional Thai provinces have joined the esteemed ranks of the Asean Smart Cities Network (ASCN).
DES Minister Chaiwut Thanakamanusorn proudly declared that Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, and Rayong have become part of ASCN, joining the initial trio of Bangkok, Chon Buri, and Phuket as ASCN members from Thailand.
This announcement was made during the sixth annual Asean Smart Cities Network meeting in Bali, Indonesia, bringing the total number of ASCN members to 29 cities, a notable increase from the previous count of 26.
ASCN operates as a platform where member cities collaborate with the private sector to implement cutting-edge technology across public infrastructures, focusing on innovative technologies, urban planning, and efficient management strategies.
Additionally, ASCN serves as a conduit for cities within Asean to collaborate with allied countries like Japan, South Korea, and Australia, fostering international cooperation and exchange of ideas.
Simultaneously, the government’s Smart City Project Management Committee put forth a proposal to designate six more areas in Thailand as smart cities.
The identified areas include Lampang in the North, Muang Taiyong Buak Khang Smart City in Chiang Mai (also in the North), Samut Prakarn in the Central region, tambon Theppharat in Chachoengsao (in the East), Nikhom Phatthana Smart City in Rayong (also in the East), and Nakhon Si Thammarat Municipality Smart City in the South.
The implementation of these six new smart cities is expected to benefit around 1.8 million people, significantly enhancing the quality of life and urban experiences for residents.
To qualify as smart cities, these newly designated areas must devise comprehensive plans aligned with the seven “smart” core values, which include “Smart Environment,” “Smart Economy,” and “Smart Governance.”
The Thai government’s current Smart City plan encompasses 36 areas in 25 provinces, showcasing the nation’s commitment to advancing technological integration and sustainable development across various regions.
Nuttapon Nimmanphatcharin, President and Chief Executive of the Digital Economy Promotion Agency, revealed that the agency had successfully trained 134 Smart City Ambassadors to contribute to the initiative within their respective hometowns.
The agency conducted workshops such as “The Smart City Leadership Programme,” which garnered participation from over 140 stakeholders from related sectors. Further, a Smart City Solutions Awards 2023 event is slated to take place during the Thailand Smart City Expo 2023 in November, promoting innovation and recognizing exceptional achievements in the realm of smart city development.
