Anutin meets with Google on data centres and AI skills for all Thais

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul met with Ruth Porat, president and chief investment officer of Alphabet and Google, in Bangkok on November 5. The meeting followed discussions in September and focused on supporting sustainable data centre investments in Thailand while expanding AI skills across the country.

At the meeting, Google reiterated its commitment to operating and investing in Thailand, promising to consider sustainability, clean energy use, and responsible business practices in its endeavors. Prime Minister Anutin proposed an "AI for All Thais" initiative, aimed at developing AI skills at local levels, including in agriculture, social services, healthcare, and education.

Both parties discussed ways to encourage data centre investment, including improving relevant laws and regulations, particularly rules governing water and electricity use. Prime Minister Anutin also suggested a one-stop service for data centre operating permits, utilizing AI to streamline the application process and make it more efficient for investors.

Google expressed interest in the proposed one-stop service, stating it was open to similar AI-driven projects in Thailand. The meeting also covered broader AI skills training for community members, farmers, workers, school pupils, and university students to enable them to utilize AI and digital technology in their work and daily lives.