Bangkok: Representatives of the Digital Television Association (Thailand) have expressed gratitude to Clinical Professor Dr. Saran Boonbaichaipruk, Chairman of the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), for urging consideration of the digital TV agenda before the licenses end in 2029.

According to Thai News Agency, the Digital Television Association submitted a letter of thanks to Dr. Saran after the NBTC held a Focus Group meeting on May 26 to gather opinions for the drafting of a Roadmap for Television and Broadcasting in Thailand. The meeting was chaired by Emeritus Professor Dr. Pirongrong Ramasut, an NBTC Commissioner, and included representatives from television operators and networks. It was announced that digital TV would be an urgent agenda item at the NBTC board meeting on May 28. Gen. Sitthichai Makkunjar, spokesman for the NBTC chairman, received the thank-you letter on behalf of Dr. Saran.

Mr. Adisak Limprungpatanakit, Vice President of the Digital Television Association, highlighted two critical agendas up for consideration: guidelines for operations based on a study of the future broadcasting scenario in Thailand and appropriate guidelines for providing access to terrestrial television on digital platforms. These agendas are crucial for guiding the transition of digital terrestrial television before the license expires in April 2029. The need for systematic preparation and a clear policy is emphasized to ensure that the digital TV industry can adapt to technological changes and evolving consumer behavior.

Mr. Adisak noted the declining reliance on terrestrial systems, with only 15% of people currently using them, as most viewers have shifted to streaming platforms. He expressed optimism that by considering the demands and comments of digital TV operators, they could better plan their businesses before the licenses expire. Network operators, whose licenses expire a year earlier, would also benefit from this planning.

However, Mr. Adisak expressed concern over the lack of clear communication from the NBTC in the past, which has hindered operators’ ability to plan for the future amidst rapidly changing technology and challenging economic conditions. He pointed out that external factors like the US tariff wall could impact advertising revenue, leading to salary reductions and layoffs, which in turn affect the quality of news and drama production.

Despite his concerns, Mr. Adisak remains hopeful that the digital TV agenda will be considered promptly. He stressed the importance of following up with the NBTC to ensure progress, warning that the future of digital TV could be at risk if the agenda is not addressed.