NBTC eyes policy change to meet evolving broadcast tech

Tanakorn Sangiam

BANGKOK (NNT) - The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) is evaluating its performance as a regulator, in order to update its policies to meet the digital disruption of the media landscape, allowing broadcasters to implement new technology that best benefits their businesses.

The NBTC’s operations evaluation committee has hired consultants to track and evaluate the work of the NBTC as a broadcast regulator, in order to provide insights to NBTC’s planned policy update, to meet the technological disruption in the media industry.

Sitting as a member of the consultant panel, Sukhothai Thammathirat Open University’s Communication Arts lecturer Monwipa Wongrujira said radio broadcasters in Thailand have started shifting to online broadcasting instead, which is something with which the NBTC, as a regulator, must catch up.

From her focus group interviews, Ms. Monwipa said most radio broadcasters are aware of their roles to help reduce broadcast offenses, such as running illegal advertisements for medicines and supplements. However, their shift to online platforms has caused more issues related to licenses, as these broadcasters don’t have an in-depth knowledge of computer-related laws.

The NBTC’s evaluation committee chair Napat Winitchaikul said modern technology has enabled a single radio frequency to be used for multiple services, which is significant for the broadcasting industry.

He said the NBTC’s policy as a regulator in the future will mimic those of foreign countries, while adapting to the needs of broadcast operators and the customs, traditions and behavior of Thai audiences.

The suggestions on policy changes made by this evaluation committee will be used to create an action plan for the new NBTC members.