Imagine a sunlit Thursday afternoon when the intellectual giants of Chulalongkorn University gather to ponder the mysteries and mishaps of communication during crises. At the helm of this insightful dialogue, aptly titled “Knowledge Forum: After the Quake,” stands Assoc Prof Alongkorn Parivudhiphongs, the ever-astute Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Communication Arts. With a stride both authoritative and measured, he brings to light the fragile art of crisis communication in an era where information often moves faster than a tempest.
The subject at hand? A jarring seismic event—the reverberations of which were felt far beyond its epicenter in Myanmar’s Mandalay, shaking life (and a few buildings) in as many as 57 Thai provinces. This recent quake underscored an ever-pressing issue: the government’s faltering communication strategies during emergencies, a scenario that frequently breeds public panic akin to bees without their queen. As Prof Alongkorn passionately notes, the chaos following a quake is echoed by a cacophony of misinformation readily distributed via social media, a realm where fact and fiction sometimes dance too closely.
“It’s not just about sending out a warning,” he asserts with a professor’s fervor. “It’s crucial that the recipients understand these alerts and know exactly what to do next.” Imagine, if you will, an emergency alert blaring through the city streets, only to be met with collective shrugs. Such was the challenge unveiled when the earthquake came uninvited, rattling not only buildings but the very confidence of the city’s residents.
Interestingly, our savvy Japanese comrades—students of Prof Alongkorn who happened to be residing in Thailand—demonstrated commendable nous. They quickly assessed the tremor’s unwelcome jig and whisked themselves to safety with the kind of precision you’d expect from a practiced drill. Meanwhile, the local students, caught in a momentary limbo, sought cues from their environment, embodying a need for more robust educational frameworks in natural disaster response.
Mainstream media, with a juggler’s finesse, must harmonize with social platforms to ensure the dissemination of nothing short of the truth. Here, Prof Alongkorn calls upon the titans of tech and traditional media alike to curate content that’s as reliable as a compass in a sailor’s hand, thus sheltering the public from the storm of misinformation.
As echoes of the earthquake still subsist in the minds of many, Prof Alongkorn sends a clarion call: the development of a comprehensive crisis communication strategy. This isn’t just a scribbled note in a suggestion box but a blueprint for preparedness—embracing not just earthquakes, but potentially any natural disaster that might stumble across the land unexpectedly.
Emergency plans need more than mere architecture—they demand responsive public health systems, ready to spring into action like a well-oiled machine. Understandably, this is no small task. Yet, as Prof Alongkorn eloquently advocates, foresight in these endeavors is akin to a safety net, offering solace and assurance before the ground even thinks of quaking.
As the forum attendees filtered out of their intellectual oasis, minds rich with new insights and challenges, the proactive seeds of change were sown. In the dance of disaster, communication isn’t just a tool—it’s the maestro orchestrating the symphony of preparedness.
This article hits right on the importance of crisis communication. We need better information flow during disasters.
Absolutely! The government’s response often seems slow and uncoordinated. They should learn from countries like Japan.
To be fair, Japan has had more practice with earthquakes. It’s unrealistic to expect the same level of preparedness overnight.
True, but it’s not just about practice. It’s about having a strategic plan and technology that supports timely and accurate communication.
Why does it matter so much? It’s just a tremor.
Even minor earthquakes can cause significant panic and misinformation. Communication can lessen fear.
Sarah, tremors can be precursors to bigger quakes. Always be prepared for the unexpected!
Are social media really part of the problem? Isn’t it the responsibility of official channels to debunk false information?
Social media spreads info way faster than traditional news. It can fuel panic if not managed.
This is just another excuse for the govt to increase surveillance, mark my words.
Conspiracy theories aside, clear communication is vital for public safety.
Sammy, distrust in the government is understandable, but greater communication transparency isn’t synonymous with surveillance.
I was in Thailand when the earthquake happened, and there was confusion everywhere. We definitely need better systems in place.
A first-hand experience carries weight. What’s your take on how it should be handled?
More partnerships with tech companies could really help streamline the communication process.
Mainstream media and social platforms need to align. They often contradict each other in crises.
Unfortunately, drama and panic sell more than calm, verified news.
Prof Alongkorn’s initiative is admirable, but will the government listen? They’re known for burying their heads in the sand.
I don’t trust any communication that doesn’t come directly from the scientific community.
That’s a good point. Experts should definitely be at the forefront of these efforts.
Earthquakes have been around forever. Why is there still so much panic?
It’s human nature to fear things beyond our control. Better communication can ease that fear.
Why was there no mention of how communication can help after the disaster? The relief phase needs focus too.
Hope this communication strategy also accounts for people with disabilities who might need special alerts.
Great point, Sue. Accessibility is often overlooked in these discussions.