Sasikarn Wattanachan warns of AI governance and data risks in Thailand

Sasikarn Wattanachan, spokesperson for the United Thai Nation Party and former deputy spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, has raised concerns regarding the lack of governance in Thailand's growing AI and data center sectors.

Addressing the issue via social media, she highlighted several critical risks. First, she questioned the transparency of massive investments, asking for clarity on the origins of funds to ensure they are not linked to illicit activities or scam operations. She emphasized that AI businesses must practice strong corporate governance and disclose their project goals and beneficiaries.

Second, she expressed significant concern regarding data sovereignty. She noted that some domestic companies controlling vast amounts of Thai 'big data' may eventually allow foreign entities to acquire shares, potentially placing the nation's data in foreign hands.

Finally, she urged the government, specifically the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, to accelerate the development of legal frameworks to keep pace with private sector advancements. She noted that beyond environmental concerns like water and electricity usage, the lack of public disclosure regarding data center plans poses a risk to national security and economic stability.