Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DES) recently announced that three new Thai provinces are now part or the ASEAN Smart Cities Network (ASCN), namely Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen and Rayong. The ASEAN Smart Cities Network aims to incorporate modern technology across public infrastructures by collaborating with the private sector. The ASCN also functions as a platform for cities within the ASEAN region to advance ties with countries such as Japan, South Korea and Australia.
The Smart City Project Management Committee listed the following six new prospective areas to be developed into ASEAN smart cities in Thailand: Lampang in the North, Muang Taiyong Buak Khang in Chiang Mai in the North, the Centrally located Samut Prakarn, Theppharat in the Eastern Chachoengsao, Nikhom Phatthana in Eastern Rayong, and Southern Nakhon Si Thammarat Municipality.
Around 1.8 million citizens currently live in these cities. Each of these cities has been tasked with formulating a strategy to implement smart solutions. This includes establishing a ‘Smart Environment’, fostering a ‘Smart Economy’ and encouraging ‘Smart Governance.’
(Source: Thaiger)
