High-Level Meeting to Enhance Digital Security in Thailand
Karan Bajwa, President of Google Cloud Asia-Pacific, met with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Monday, January 6, at Government House. The meeting aimed to bolster cooperation on critical digital issues, including cybersecurity and online scam prevention.
Strengthening Collaboration Between Google and Thailand
The partnership between Google and the Thai government has flourished since 2023 when a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society.
1. Overview of the Meeting
During the meeting, both leaders reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening Thailand’s digital landscape.
Key Focus Areas
- Addressing the increasing threat of cyberattacks.
- Combating the growing issue of online scams targeting Thai citizens.
Prime Minister’s Perspective
Prime Minister Paetongtarn welcomed Google’s proactive role in tackling these issues, emphasizing the importance of public-private collaboration to achieve meaningful results.
2. Google’s Role in Supporting Digital Security
Google Cloud has pledged to assist the Thai government by leveraging its advanced technologies to protect against cyber threats and online scams.
Establishing a Dedicated Cybersecurity Unit
Google announced plans to create a specialized unit focused on safeguarding Thailand’s critical information infrastructure.
Responsibilities of the Unit
- Real-time monitoring and analysis of cyber threats.
- Rapid response to cybersecurity incidents to minimize damage.
Fraud and Scam Prevention Measures
Google will collaborate with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to detect and block malicious applications, reducing fraud risks for Thai citizens.
Government’s Commitment to Cybersecurity
1. Acknowledging Google’s Efforts
Prime Minister Paetongtarn expressed gratitude for Google’s dedication to cybersecurity, noting its alignment with Thailand’s national priorities.
Strengthening Policies and Capacities
The Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society to work closely with Google on developing:
- Robust cybersecurity policies.
- Proactive measures to address complex cyber threats.
- Strategies to safeguard citizens from scams and fraud.
Empowering Thai Agencies
The collaboration will enhance the capabilities of Thai agencies to effectively combat cyber risks and protect critical information.
2. Proactive Steps to Protect Citizens
The government is committed to implementing forward-looking measures that ensure the safety and trust of Thai citizens in the digital sphere.
Conclusion
The meeting between Google Cloud Asia-Pacific and the Thai government marks a significant milestone in their partnership to tackle cybersecurity challenges. By combining Google’s technological expertise with government initiatives, this collaboration aims to create a safer digital environment for Thailand’s citizens and public sector.