BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation, Prof. Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, has introduced a “Technology for Thailand” approach to develop new economic engines driven by science, technology, research, and innovation. Speaking at KBTG Techtopia: Human of Tomorrow in Bangkok on September 16, he called for advanced technologies to increase value across agriculture, healthcare, tourism, and industry, including precision agriculture, digital health, advanced materials, and semiconductors.
The deputy prime minister called for research to move beyond laboratories into practical applications, commercialization, and wider economic use. The approach would connect farmers, community enterprises, SMEs, and manufacturers with startups, universities, and private-sector investment, while government support would address higher-risk areas of research and technology development. Greater domestic scientific capabilities would also reduce reliance on overseas technology and improve Thailand’s global competitiveness.
Plans include Siam Silicon for the semiconductor industry and Siam Medica for healthcare and wellness, covering areas such as clinical research, cell and gene therapies, organoid science, and digital health. Artificial intelligence is also expected to raise productivity across the economy, supported by data systems, cloud technology, and cybersecurity, while universities would help extend technology and knowledge to communities and businesses nationwide. Workforce development through upskilling and reskilling will also proceed alongside investment in technological infrastructure and human capital. (NNT)
