Thailand Takes Center Stage in Asia-Pacific Media Leadership - Faith & Freedom News

PRD Director-General Elected AIBD President as Nation Hosts Major Broadcasting Conference

PHUKET, Thailand – Thailand has achieved a significant milestone in regional media diplomacy as the Government Public Relations Department (PRD) secured the prestigious presidency of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development General Conference (AIBD GC) for the next two years.

The landmark election took place during the 23rd Annual General Conference of the AIBD, held from August 19-21, 2025, in the scenic province of Phuket. Director-General Sudruetai Lertkesom emerged victorious in the leadership vote, earning the trust of member nations across the Asia-Pacific region to guide the organization’s highest governing body.

International Recognition Highlights Thailand’s Media Influence

Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai, attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, delivered a virtual address to the gathering of over 87 media representatives and broadcasting networks from across the region. Speaking with evident pride, the Minister emphasized the significance of Thailand’s selection as host nation for this crucial conference.

“I am deeply pleased that AIBD has chosen Thailand as the host for this momentous conference,” Minister Jiraporn stated during her remarks. She highlighted Phuket’s unique position as a culturally diverse tourism hub, noting Thailand’s tradition of warm hospitality in welcoming international partners.

The conference’s central theme, “Media for People, Peace and Prosperity,” resonated strongly with Thailand’s vision for responsible media practices. Minister Jiraporn explained how this philosophy reflects the media’s fundamental role in empowering citizens, fostering peace, and driving shared economic growth across the region.

Strategic Leadership Role Brings Regional Responsibilities

The AIBD presidency represents far more than ceremonial recognition. The position carries substantial responsibilities, including chairing future conferences and establishing strategic communication frameworks among Asia-Pacific member countries. This leadership role positions Thailand at the forefront of regional media policy development and international broadcasting cooperation.

“It is truly gratifying to see international media recognizing the important role of Thai media,” Minister Jiraporn observed, reflecting on the broader implications of this achievement for Thailand’s soft power projection in the region.

Addressing Contemporary Media Challenges

During the conference proceedings, Director-General Sudruetai emphasized Thailand’s commitment to leveraging media capabilities during crisis situations. She cited recent examples of earthquake and flood response efforts, demonstrating how effective public communication serves humanitarian purposes and strengthens community resilience.

The gathering focused extensively on developing AIBD’s strategic framework for 2025-2029, with particular attention to emerging technology integration and expanded international cooperation. Participants engaged in comprehensive discussions about operational reports, training programs, and strategic partnerships designed to enhance broadcasting capabilities across member nations.

Technology and Information Integrity at the Forefront

Minister Jiraporn’s concluding remarks underscored the urgent need for contemporary media practices in an era of rapid technological transformation. She specifically called upon the PRD to champion responsible journalism standards, particularly regarding artificial intelligence integration, factual information presentation, and the global fight against misinformation.

“Thailand must promote responsible, contemporary media practices, particularly regarding advancing technology, artificial intelligence, factual information presentation, and combating fake news that affects people worldwide,” the Minister declared.

Regional Media Discourse Transformation

The successful conference and Thailand’s election to the AIBD presidency represent both national achievement and international acknowledgment of the country’s expanding influence in regional media discourse. This development positions Thailand as a key player in shaping broadcasting standards and communication policies across the Asia-Pacific region.

The three-day conference brought together media professionals, government representatives, and broadcasting industry leaders to address the challenges and opportunities facing mass communications in an increasingly connected world. Discussions ranged from traditional broadcasting methods to cutting-edge digital platforms and artificial intelligence applications in media production.

Looking Forward: Two-Year Leadership Term

As Director-General Sudruetai begins her two-year term leading the AIBD General Conference, Thailand faces the opportunity to significantly influence regional media development strategies. The presidency provides a platform for promoting Thai media expertise while fostering stronger international partnerships in broadcasting and communications.

The conference’s success in Phuket demonstrates Thailand’s capacity to host major international gatherings while showcasing the country’s commitment to advancing media literacy, technological innovation, and cross-cultural communication throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

This achievement marks a new chapter in Thailand’s media diplomacy, positioning the nation as a trusted leader in regional broadcasting development and international communications cooperation.