True Corporation Plc., a pioneer in Thailand’s telecom-tech landscape, has teamed up with heavy hitters like the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC), the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), and Phuket Province to crank up the safety dial in one of the world’s most enticing vacation spots—Phuket. On November 19, 2024, they conducted a live simulation of the much-anticipated “LIVE – Cell Broadcast Service” (CBS). This ambitious project aims to redefine safety norms and infuse a fresh wave of confidence among tourists flooding into Thailand’s sunny shores.
Taking the helm as the Cell Broadcast Center (CBC), True Corporation effortlessly navigated the choppy waters of system integration testing alongside the DDPM, the stalwart Cell Broadcast Entity (CBE). This dynamic duo orchestrated an all-encompassing, real-time simulation that whipped through networks with the precision of a digital maestro. As the team fine-tunes the system to pitch-perfect standards, the CBS is gearing up for a grand debut, promising swift, pinpoint, and all-inclusive emergency alerts when they’re needed most.
Phuket: A Perfect Lab for CBS Trials
Phuket isn’t just another picturesque island; it’s an economic powerhouse right behind Bangkok, attracting 11.3 million tourists, including a substantial 8.4 million international visitors just last year. This flurry of globetrotters poured a staggering 388 billion baht into the local economy, and the island snagged the “The Best Island Destination” accolade from Bounce. Phuket’s tantalizing allure makes it the perfect testbed for CBS, especially given its susceptibility to maritime calamities. The island’s significance in propelling Thailand’s tourism forward makes it an optimal choice for rolling out such pivotal safety measures.
Collaboration: The Key to Advanced Safety
At the heart of this initiative is Mr. Chakkrit Urairat, True Corporation’s Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, who echoed the pride and zeal of his cohorts, noting, “True Corporation is elated to join forces with NBTC, DE, and DDPM for this CBS simulation test in Phuket. This marks a monumental stride in crafting a lifesaving alert system primed to safeguard both Thai nationals and our cherished guests. Today’s test isn’t just a milestone; it showcases the synergetic strength of collaboration, following on the heels of our successful run in Bangkok last July.”
During the thrilling simulation, the system showcased its prowess, dispatching alerts to every mobile device within the danger zone sans the hurdle of pre-registration. It’s a linguist’s dream, supporting myriad languages and delivering alerts through pop-up messages, audio notifications, and a Text-to-Speech feature for visually impaired users, ensuring no one is left adrift in a sea of uncertainty.
Standout Features of True’s Cell Broadcast System
- Speed: Real-time alerts to ensure rapid response in emergencies.
- Accuracy: Laser-focused targeting of impacted regions.
- Coverage: Inclusive messaging to everyone in the area of risk without prior registration.
- International Standards: Aligns with global norms, setting a reliable standard.
- Multi-language Support: Offers alerts in various languages for broad accessibility.
In tandem with rolling out the CBS, True has inaugurated the Business and Network Intelligence Center (BNIC), a round-the-clock emergency command center, dedicated to the vigilant oversight of the system’s operational flow.
Fortifying Safety for a Secure Tomorrow
The “LIVE – Cell Broadcast Service” venture unfurled in Phuket is a spectacular leap toward fortifying Thailand’s safety infrastructure, aspiring to soar to international heights. Fusing advanced technology with stalwart cross-sector partnerships, True Corporation and allies are on a mission to uplift everyday life quality for Thais and assure a safe haven for global visitors.
As True and DDPM proceed with the intricate ballet of system integration, the CBS stands poised to become an influential force in emergency response. It’s not just about protecting fleeting tourists; it solidifies Thailand’s status as a safe and warm-hearted sanctuary, open to all who wander.
I’m skeptical about whether technological solutions like these truly improve safety or just give us a false sense of security.
I think it’s better to have some safety system in place rather than nothing at all. It’s a step in the right direction!
I agree there’s potential, but I’d like to see data proving its effectiveness before fully supporting it.
It’s remarkable that CBS can function across multiple languages. True must be an industry leader to facilitate such an inclusive safety measure!
Absolutely, Dr. Thompson! Language inclusivity in safety systems is a game-changer for international tourists.
Not just tourists, but non-native residents too! It makes everyone feel safer and more secure.
But what if the tech fails? We shouldn’t rely solely on technology for safety measures.
This is a brilliant example of technology being used for public good. Hope more countries adopt similar systems!
While it’s great innovation, I’m concerned about privacy and data security. Who controls the information flow?
True! Transparency on who controls data is crucial. Hope True Corporation addresses such concerns.
Implementing CBS is like adding another layer of security for Phuket. Can’t believe it wasn’t done earlier!
What makes you think this system won’t encounter any glitches? No tech is foolproof.
Interviewed tech teams in my job; they run extensive tests to minimize glitches. It’s all about efficiency and quick improvements.
Devices receiving alerts without pre-registration sound promising, but more education campaigns are needed to make people aware.
I hope the initiative also considers ecological impacts and promotes sustainability.
CBS is about immediate safety, but integrating it with environmental strategies would be brilliant!
Go True Corporation! Leading the way in merging tech and safety. Other telecoms should take a leaf out of their book.
Have similar systems elsewhere proven effective? Would love to see comparative studies.
Yes, they have! Japan has a CBS system for earthquake alerts and it’s quite successful.
Didn’t know that, Sarah! Sounds reassuring for Thailand’s new system’s potential success.
How will this affect local businesses? Tourists may expect quicker responses to incidents but businesses also need to adapt.
Integrating a Text-to-Speech feature is spot on. Truly inclusive tech!
Definitely, imagine the lives this functionality could save if more places adopted it!
Will this be free of cost for users, or are there hidden charges?
Typically, public safety alerts are considered a public service and should be free. However, transparency here is key.
True, while it should be free, government backing would likely ensure it remains so.