Page 211 - -25-0508(ALLs)

The International Journal of the Royal Society of Thailand

Volume XVI-2024 (Special Issue)

the establishment of radio stations (King Prajadhipok Museum, 2016), which played a crucial role

in educational and development programs, reaching out to the kingdom’s most isolated areas.
The current digital era under King Maha Vajiralongkorn has witnessed significant strides in
digital communication. The monarchy has embraced digital media and technology to continue

the tradition of using communication as a tool for national development and cohesion.
This period has seen enhancements in digital infrastructure, widening internet access, and the

use of social media platforms (Matichon Online, 2019) to engage with the public and promote
cultural and heritage projects, furthering the monarchy’s reach and impact in the digital age.
Throughout these periods, the Thai monarchy has utilized communication not only as

a means to administer and unite the nation but also as a strategic tool to foster educational
opportunities (Rattanasuwan, 2020), enhance public health, and drive socioeconomic progress.
The integration of communication strategies across different eras demonstrates the monarchy’s

adaptive approaches to governance and public engagement, ensuring that the institution remains
a pivotal element in Thailand’s national development narrative.

Development of Key Communication Agencies
The Thai monarchy has played a pivotal role in shaping the communication infrastructure

and fostering strategic partnerships that have significantly role the country’s development.
This section explores the establishment of key communication agencies and the monarchy’s
collaboration with various sectors to bolster national development.

Under the visionary leadership of the Thai monarchy, several key communication agencies
were established, aimed at modernizing and expanding the nation’s communication capabilities.

This initiative began in earnest during the reign of King Chulalongkorn, who introduced modern
telegraph services (Chirapapaisan, 2024), laying the foundation for future advancements in
communication technologies. (Lertlattanarangsri, 2023: 53-80)

The monarchy’s commitment extended beyond the creation of agencies, focusing also
on substantial infrastructure development. This included the expansion of telecommunication
networks and the establishment of the first television station in Thailand (Royal Thai Government

Gazette, 1995), which became instrumental in disseminating educational and cultural content,
thus reinforcing national identity and unity.
A distinctive feature of the monarchy’s approach to communication development has been

its strategic collaborations. These partnerships spanned across government entities, the private
sector, and civil society organizations. Together, they worked towards shared goals that included

not only technological advancements but also the promotion of sustainable development and
public health initiatives. (Friends in Needs (of “PA”) Volunteers Foundation, 2022).

204

7/7/2568 BE 15:17
-25-0508(001)P5.indd 204 7/7/2568 BE 15:17
-25-0508(001)P5.indd 204