BANGKOK, Thailand – The Ministry of Social Development and Human Security (MSDHS) has launched the “Promoting Visually Impaired People’s Access to Movies via PANNANA Application” project, led by Minister Varawut Silpa-archa.
The initiative enables people with visual impairments to enjoy films through audio description technology delivered via the PANNANA mobile application. A special screening of the film Laan Ma was held at SF Cinema, CentralWorld, to demonstrate the app’s features. The project is organized by the Together for People with Disabilities and Society Foundation with support from the Disability Quality of Life Development Fund and MSDHS.
The Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities has strengthened the app’s security and usability to support wider adoption in partnership with leading cinema chains. By connecting the application with a smartphone and headphones, users can listen to synchronized audio descriptions, allowing them to experience both local and international films in an inclusive way.
The ministry emphasized that the initiative promotes equality by breaking down barriers in entertainment, ensuring that people with disabilities can participate fully in cultural experiences. Support from the Health Promotion Fund (ThaiHealth) and GDH 559 Co., Ltd. has also been instrumental in expanding access and improving the quality of movie viewing for the visually impaired. (NNT)
