PM Orders Full Disclosure of Government Public Data

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has ordered all state agencies to fully disclose public information and remove unnecessary secrecy as part of a nationwide anti-corruption campaign with the private sector. He made the announcement at Government House, after chairing the first integrated public-private meeting on corruption prevention and suppression. He said transparency and accountability are essential to restoring public trust and strengthening Thailand’s international credibility.

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The meeting brought together senior ministers, anti-corruption campaigners, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries and the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry and Banking (JSCCIB), alongside delegates from 35 state agencies. Mr Anutin said the government convened the talks after receiving feedback from the private sector about concerns over transparency and corruption in public administration.

He instructed ministries and departments to review operations to ensure transparency, legal compliance and full auditability, and to adopt modern technology to reduce corruption risks and improve public access to information.

Mr Anutin said he had previously been on the side requesting information and often faced partial disclosure or exemptions. He said he had now instructed officials to disclose everything, adding that where legal barriers exist, laws should be amended. He warned that corruption cannot be addressed if agencies continue to selectively release information.

He also said evidence of wrongdoing involving civil servants or ministers should be submitted to investigative bodies, including the National Anti-Corruption Commission, the Public Sector Anti-Corruption Commission and anti-money laundering authorities. He added: “A thief always leaves traces.” He also criticised the methodology of the Corruption Perceptions Index, saying it relies too heavily on perception rather than verified legal findings.

Business leaders welcomed the government’s response, with Poj Aramwattananont, chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, praising the swift action and noting the focus was on structural reform rather than targeting individuals. The Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment ordered departments to identify corruption risks, particularly in procurement and licensing systems.

Bangkokpost reported that state agencies are expected to implement full disclosure requirements and review legal frameworks where necessary, while increasing use of technology to improve transparency. Investigations into alleged corruption cases, are expected to continue as authorities assess evidence and enforcement procedures across ministries.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 22 May 2026