Thailand has successfully tested a multilingual alert system for emergencies such as natural disasters, artificial accidents or criminal incidents.
Thailand’s leading telecommunications company, True Corporation, has successfully conducted the first test of its new emergency notification system, Cell Broadcast Service (CBS). This represents a significant step forward in improving public safety and the country’s disaster preparedness.
The demonstration at True Tower Ratchadapisek showcased the system’s ability to deliver emergency alerts. The project is a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) and the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation.
During the event, True highlighted the role of its Business and Network Analytics Centre, which uses artificial intelligence to manage crisis operations centrally. This enables rapid response to emerging threats and coordination between different services.
The CBS system, approved by the NBTC board, will be implemented and managed by True, Advanced Info Service (AIS) and National Telecom. The technology allows emergency messages to be sent to all mobile devices in a particular area without providing phone numbers. Unlike traditional SMS, the cell broadcasting system works without phone numbers to ensure emergency information is disseminated quickly and widely. Users do not need to install any applications to receive these alerts.
NBTC plans to create a robust public alert system to enhance safety during incidents such as violence, shootings and natural disasters. NBTC Chairman Dr Sarana Boonbaichaiyapruk expressed confidence that the emergency alert service on mobile phones will be operational by mid-2025.
True CEO Manat Manavutivet commented on the recent increase in losses from natural disasters, accidents and crime in Thailand, highlighting True’s partnership with government agencies in developing CBS for public safety alerts.
An interesting feature of the testing was the ability to create and transmit alerts in multiple languages, including Thai, English, Russian, Chinese, and Japanese. This is especially important for Thailand, a popular tourist destination that receives millions of foreign visitors each year.
The new emergency notification system represents a significant step in Thailand’s public safety. It will enable authorities to quickly and effectively inform citizens and tourists of potential threats, such as natural disasters, man-made accidents, or criminal incidents.
Successfully testing True Corporation’s system is an essential milestone in the project’s realisation. However, much work must be done before the system is fully operational. Not only does the technical setup need to be completed, but clear protocols for using the system need to be developed, staff need to be trained, and extensive public awareness of the new alerting service needs to be conducted.
Overall, the implementation of the system demonstrates Thailand’s commitment to modernising its security infrastructure and willingness to use advanced technology to protect its citizens and visitors. This is an essential step towards creating a safer and more resilient society in an era of growing global challenges and threats.
More Articles Here
More Articles Here
