Bangkok: The Office of the Narcotics Control Board (ONCB) has partnered with the Department of Provincial Administration to integrate data into a centralized information system to combat drug-related issues effectively.

According to Thai News Agency, Pol. Lt. Gen. Panurat Lakboon, Secretary-General of the ONCB, and Mr. Nirat Phongsithipaworn, Director-General of the Department of Provincial Administration, have formalized this collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU). The agreement focuses on linking data from the central information system for drug problem resolution, known as MOI DRUGS GIS, between the two entities. This initiative is designed to facilitate information exchange and leverage survey results concerning individuals involved with drugs, managed by the Department of Provincial Administration’s Administrative Information Center.

The objectives of this collaboration are multifaceted. Firstly, it aims to develop and exchange data on village and community-level drug-related surveys within the Department’s jurisdiction, alongside other pertinent information in electronic format. Secondly, it seeks to enable swift and effective monitoring of individual performance in drug prevention and suppression, which will enhance operations within the legal and regulatory framework of both parties.

Furthermore, the agreement outlines the development of a system for reporting survey results and operations concerning individuals involved with drugs at the local level. This system will ensure that results are communicated to the government and relevant committees while also developing a secure database that complies with personal data protection laws. Lastly, the collaboration will involve monitoring, evaluating, and following up on the operations of both parties and associated agencies to maximize efficiency in preventing, suppressing, and resolving drug-related problems, with the overarching goal of safeguarding people and communities from drugs.