Rethinking Technology: Shifting Thailand’s Role in the Digital Era

Rethinking Technology: Shifting Thailand’s Role in the Digital Era

By Janpha Thadphoothon

This is my view on how we have been using technology, especially information technology like smartphones and social media, among others. One thing is for sure—technology is not free. We have to pay for it. 

I guess you would agree with me that we (Thais) have been at the forefront of internet use and smartphones. The latest brand and version—we all have them, and we have spent a great deal of time and money acquiring them. This won't make us stronger, but weaker.

What I would like to point out is that we have become a great consumer of technology—not producers and makers of the technology. We buy technology. We are consumers. 

It is my personal belief that this trend, while not unique to Thailand, highlights a key issue. As we know, technology has become an inseparable part of our daily lives. Smartphones, laptops, smartwatches, and other gadgets are no longer luxuries but necessities. But have we stopped to ask ourselves what this says about us as a society?

In my opinion, we are a society that values consumption over production. They say that the hallmark of a developed country is its ability to innovate and create technology, not just to use it. What we all know and agree upon is that Thailand has been very successful in adopting and integrating technology into daily life. But the question remains: have we been as successful in contributing to the global pool of technological innovation?

The Culture of Consumption

I am sure you would agree with me that we take pride in owning the latest gadgets. The news has it that Thailand is among the top countries in smartphone penetration. This, of course, speaks to our adaptability and enthusiasm for embracing new trends. However, it also reflects a mindset deeply rooted in consumerism.

People say that our obsession with having the latest technology stems from a desire to keep up appearances, to showcase status, and to feel connected in a highly digital world. I think there is some truth to this. But there is more to the story. Our education system and economic structure have not been designed to encourage technological innovation. Instead, they prepare us to be good consumers of what others have created.

It is well known that countries like South Korea, Japan, and China have made significant strides in producing cutting-edge technology. These nations have not only embraced technology but have also invested heavily in research and development. What about Thailand? In my opinion, we need to take a closer look at our priorities.

Where Are the Producers?

The reality is sobering. We have brilliant minds and talented individuals, yet they often lack the opportunities and resources to develop their ideas. I am not sure, but I think this could be due to a lack of investment in research and development. My conviction is that if we want to shift from being mere consumers to becoming producers, we need to start by changing our mindset.

As we know, innovation does not happen in a vacuum. It requires an ecosystem that supports creativity, experimentation, and risk-taking. This is something we need to cultivate. People say that Thailand has the potential to become a hub for technological innovation, but potential alone is not enough. What is even more alarming is not just that we keep buying technology, but how we have been using it. Most information we create (content) and communicate seems trivial and non-essential. It does not lead to learning and productivity increases. I am not optimistic, but we know that this is the case.

Technology and Education

What we all know and agree upon is that education is the foundation for any technological advancement. In my opinion, our education system needs a major overhaul. It is my personal belief that we should focus more on critical thinking, problem-solving, and coding skills. The news has it that coding will soon become as essential as reading and writing. Are we ready for that?

I think our schools and universities should collaborate more closely with tech companies to provide students with hands-on experience. This will not only prepare them for the workforce but also inspire them to innovate. They say that the best way to learn is by doing. So why not give our students the tools and opportunities to create technology rather than just use it?

The Role of Government and Private Sector

It is well known that government policies play a crucial role in shaping a nation’s technological landscape. In my opinion, our government should provide more incentives for startups and entrepreneurs. Tax breaks, grants, and subsidies can go a long way in encouraging innovation.

The private sector also has a significant role to play. Companies need to invest in local talent and collaborate with educational institutions. What we all know and agree upon is that a strong partnership between the government, private sector, and academia is essential for fostering innovation.

The Way Forward

In the age of AI, Thailand needs to step up its efforts to become a tech maker and knowledge producer, not just a consumer. What has been happening is that we are losing the technology race, and many Thais have been victimized by scammers and unscrupulous business operators. We need to be smart consumers as well.

I am not sure, but I think we are at a crossroads. We can either continue down the path of consumerism or take bold steps toward becoming a producer of KNOWLEDGE AND TECHNOLOGY. My conviction is that the latter will not only benefit our economy but also give us a sense of pride and accomplishment.

People say that change is never easy, but it is necessary. In my opinion, the first step is to recognize the problem. Once we do that, we can begin to address it. As we know, every journey begins with a single step. Let us take that step together and work towards a future where Thailand is not just a consumer but also a creator of technology.

I think it is time for us to rethink our relationship with technology. It is my personal belief that we have the potential to achieve great things. The news has it that the world is moving towards a more technology-driven future. Let us not just follow the trend but lead it. This is not just a challenge but an opportunity. 

Janpha Thadphoothon is an assistant professor of ELT at the International College, Dhurakij Pundit University in Bangkok, Thailand. Janpha Thadphoothon also holds a certificate of Generative AI with Large Language Models issued by DeepLearning.AI.