Srettha Thavisin, Prime Minister of Thailand (middle); Satya Nadella, Microsoft CEO (left);
and Ahmed Mazhari, President of Microsoft Asia (right)
Memorandum of understanding to drive national digital development, skilling and sustainability efforts, and pave the way to digital infrastructure investments with AI and cloud at the core
Bangkok / San Francisco, November 16, 2023 – Today the Royal Thai Government and Microsoft signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for a collaboration to pursue the vision of a digital-first, AI-powered Thailand. By harnessing the transformative power of Microsoft’s artificial intelligence and cloud technology, the partnership aims to strengthen Thailand’s economic competitiveness, create high-value jobs that empower Thais to achieve more, and position the country as a regional leader in digital innovation and sustainability.
Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella met in San Francisco and discussed the key objectives of the memorandum of understanding:
- Building a Digital-First Thailand:
In line with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society’s (MDES) Digital Government and ‘Cloud First’ policies, Microsoft will work closely with government agencies to drive the development of smart digital infrastructure in areas such as agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and education. Both parties will explore a path towards data center investment to bolster cloud and AI use in Thailand, and Microsoft will work to enhance the Thai government’s cybersecurity posture with industry-leading best practices and expertise. - Shaping Thailand’s AI-Powered Future:
Microsoft will engage MDES in developing and integrating AI into e-government projects and public services for the benefit of Thai citizens. Both parties plan to establish a strategic AI Center of Excellence to accelerate existing AI projects in the public sector, define a clear roadmap for AI implementation, and foster innovation across various sectors and industries. Furthermore, MDES and Microsoft will engage in consultation over policy and regulatory frameworks that ensure responsible and productive use of AI in Thailand. - Equipping Thais for the Future of Work and Life:
Microsoft will continue its mission to develop future-ready skills for 10 million Thais by working alongside MDES and other stakeholders to equip Thais with crucial skills. From building second-language proficiency and advancing digital literacy to developing the next generation of citizen developers, this collaboration seeks to provide underserved communities across the country with access to more learning opportunities and materials. - Elevating Thailand to Green Growth Leadership:
To accelerate Thailand’s journey towards net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2065, Thai government agencies will engage Microsoft to create a sustainability sandbox for the development of environmental innovations, enabling the exploration of initiatives that are effective and scalable for the public sector, large enterprises, and small businesses alike. Additionally, Microsoft will also be working towards achieving 100% renewable energy usage for potential investments in the country.
Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin said, “Our country’s commitment to sustainable future and renewable energy aligns with Microsoft’s vision. This collaboration will strengthen our country’s economy while enhancing our digital capability.”
Ahmed Mazhari, President, Microsoft Asia, added: “AI has proven to be a major generational milestone in transforming how people and organizations work. With Thailand already setting its sights on generating 48 billion baht (approximately $1.33 billion) in business and social impact through AI by 2027[1], we are excited to be working more closely with the Thai government in bringing this vision of AI-powered Thailand to life.”
[1] Thailand National AI Strategy Annual Report 2023, August 2023