Microsoft promotes artificial intelligence for every Thai
Microsoft Thailand has announced a bold new initiative dubbed “AI for All Thais”, emphasising the company’s commitment to harnessing the transformative power of Generative AI for the benefit of all Thai individuals and organisations.
During a media briefing on Thursday, managing director Dhanawat Suthumpun said that one of the initiative’s goals is to train one million Thais in AI literacy within one fiscal year, which ends in June 2025. The figure corresponds to an earlier statement by its CEO, Satya Nadella, who announced plans to train over two million AI workers in Southeast Asia each year.
Building upon the success of Nadella’s visit last year, the vision is underpinned by three core strategies: Skills, Scale, and Secure, which aim to accelerate Thailand’s digital economy and foster inclusive growth.
“Microsoft recognises the immense potential of AI and cloud computing to drive positive change in Thailand. Our ‘AI for All Thais’ vision is to empower every citizen with the transformative power of AI through skills development, scalable adoption and a secure and trusted digital ecosystem,” he stated.
It also reinforces Microsoft’s dedication to Thailand’s AI and cloud revolution. The company has made significant investments in digital infrastructure, including a new data centre region.
Dhanawat Suthumpun
This expansion will enhance the availability of Microsoft’s hyperscale cloud services, ensuring enterprise-grade reliability, performance, and compliance with local data residency and privacy standards.
Dhanawat outlined three key pillars of the “AI for All Thais” initiative.
- Building essential AI skills: Microsoft plans to train one million Thais in essential AI skills by next year through the AI National Skill Initiative. This initiative will offer a diverse range of training programs, accessible to all levels of learners, to equip individuals with the confidence to leverage AI for everyday tasks and drive innovation.
- Enhancing capabilities at scale: Microsoft is dedicated to empowering individuals and organisations to harness the full potential of AI. For individuals, this includes providing access to AI-powered tools like Copilot on Windows and Edge, Microsoft Designer and GitHub Copilot. For organisations, Microsoft offers innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, creativity, and agility.
- Fostering security: Microsoft believes that security is paramount for building trust in technology. The company is committed to strengthening Thailand’s cybersecurity posture, promoting responsible AI usage, and fostering essential AI skills for cybersecurity.
Recognising that Microsoft cannot do it alone, Dhanawat stated that the company is committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to move the nation’s digital future forward.
Microsoft aims to ensure that every Thai citizen benefits from AI’s transformative power by focusing on skill development, increasing access to critical technology, and ensuring a secure and trusted digital ecosystem.
In terms of the data centre project, he stated that Microsoft expects to complete its discussions with all partners by the end of the year.
“This initiative supports individuals and organisations in achieving their goals and thriving in a rapidly evolving digital landscape, ultimately contributing to Thailand’s position on the global stage,” he noted.
