BANGKOK, Thailand – Prime Minister’s Office Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi has announced a key initiative to elevate the Public Relations Department (PRD) and MCOT Public Company Limited into a unified “National Media Network” to improve nationwide public communication, strengthen crisis response, and ensure timely and accurate information for citizens.
The Minister chaired a joint policy meeting with executives from both agencies, including PRD Director-General Sudruetai Lertkasem and senior officials, as well as MCOT’s executives led by Acting Director-General Sommai Suwanawong. The meeting outlined a new direction to expand the role of state media beyond traditional broadcasting, transforming it into a national platform that delivers verified, accessible, and citizen-centered information across all channels.
Supamas noted that Thailand continues to face a range of challenges and emphasized that state media must respond proactively by delivering fast, accurate, and comprehensive updates. Under the new policy, the PRD will function as the national information hub, while MCOT will ensure the broadest possible dissemination across its multi-platform network.
Three core missions will drive this initiative. First, a Real-Time Truth Information Center will be established to coordinate data from disaster management, security, and related agencies, ensuring verified information is delivered rapidly through PRD and MCOT channels. Second, a joint fact-checking team will be formed to verify and correct misinformation within one hour, helping reduce public confusion and limit the spread of false content. Third, both agencies will expand nationwide field reporting through regional television and radio networks, along with PRD’s 76 Provincial Public Relations Offices, to cover key developments such as border issues, preparations for the 2025 SEA Games, and other major national events.
The Minister also outlined two strategic pathways to accelerate the upgrade of state media operations. The Quick Win approach involves repositioning the PRD as the national news agency, assigning MCOT as the lead content producer during critical events, sharing resources between the two agencies, and modernizing on-air presentation formats. The Big Transformation approach focuses on integrating artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline workflows, enhance transparency, and build a clear, credible identity for state media.
The Minister emphasized that the PRD and MCOT will maintain 24-hour coordination to ensure timely, accurate, and reliable information reaches the public. She reaffirmed that the government places the utmost importance on public safety and confidence, and remains committed to ensuring that citizens are never left to face challenges without support. (TNA)
