BANGKOK, Thailand – The government is establishing Digital Twin Thailand, an integrated virtual model that will help public agencies anticipate scenarios and enhance planning for water management, land use, disaster response, infrastructure, and urban development. Deputy Government Spokesperson Patdarasm Thongsaluaykorn stated that this initiative is part of the National Geoinformatics Action Plan for 2028–2032, developed following the 1/2026 National Geospatial Committee meeting chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Yodchanan Wongsawat. The committee highlighted the need to integrate national data resources to support AI and advanced data processing. This shift will move operations from “viewing maps” to “forecasting the future,” providing a strong foundation for a smart economy.
The deputy spokesperson explained that a Digital Twin combines national datasets, such as spatial, infrastructure, environmental, satellite, and sensor data, to create dynamic simulation models. These models assess potential impacts before real-world actions occur. Rather than only displaying locations, the Digital Twin addresses “what-if” scenarios. For example, it can predict which areas may be affected by floods, whether water reserves will suffice during droughts, or how new infrastructure could influence traffic flow.
For the public, this system will address key issues such as water and disaster management, climate and resource monitoring, land and agricultural zoning, urban planning, and industrial development. The initiative is based on three pillars: developing an accurate, interconnected geospatial database (including the “One Map” project), using AI to analyze diverse datasets, and building national simulation models to support government decision-making.
Deputy Prime Minister Yodchanan cited international examples of Digital Twins, such as simulations of aquatic populations and ecosystems to support sustainable fisheries management and assist local fishers in planning their livelihoods. The deputy spokesperson emphasized that this technological upgrade is not only about adopting new software. Its goal is to eliminate inter-agency data redundancy and shift government operations toward scenario-based planning. This approach ensures that state decisions are data-driven, precise, and responsive to public needs. (NNT)
