The permanent secretary of the ministry of transport, Chayathan Phromsorn recently presided over the signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for strategic cooperation at the headquarters of Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd in early July 2023.
The MoU aims to promote human resources development and ICT technology transfer for the rail transportation system in Thailand. The Rail Technology Research and Development Agency (public organisation) and Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd. are the signatories of this agreement.
Chayathan Phromsorn, stated that Thailand has been undergoing significant upgrades to its rail transport infrastructure in recent decades.
These upgrades, including the expansion of the double-track rail network, the development of a high-speed rail network, and the improvement of systems, equipment, and rail transport infrastructure, are essential for the country’s future economic, social, and environmental development.
To promote self-reliance in rail technology, it is crucial to develop key components of the rail industry ecosystem, such as strategic technology development, research and development, standardisation, testing, and a skilled workforce.
The government has established the Rail Technology Research and Development Agency (RTRDA) under the ministry of transport as the primary institute for railway technology research and development.
The RTRDA will facilitate the integration of expertise and resources across sectors to enhance technological capabilities and strengthen the country’s rail industry.
Additionally, the RTRDA will strive to fulfil strategic missions, including promoting innovation and technology R&D, developing a skilled workforce, and becoming a national and regional hub for rail system technology transfer.
Chayathan emphasised that Huawei possesses the remarkable potential to support Thailand’s rail industry. The company will provide support through training, career skill development, and technology advancement.
Additionally, Huawei can contribute to improving knowledge, experience, and infrastructure within the industry. The signing of the MOU signifies a significant milestone in the development of highly skilled professionals and the transfer of advanced information and communication technology to Thailand’s rail industry.
This collaboration will stimulate research and development, foster innovation, and facilitate the implementation of artificial intelligence in rail infrastructure and transportation management to achieve greater efficiency.
Huawei Technologies (Thailand) Co., Ltd. is a leading manufacturer of network and telecommunications equipment, as well as a provider of information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure and smart devices.
With its knowledge, industry expertise, infrastructure, and strong commitment to empowering the industry through talent cultivation, Huawei has the potential to drive Thailand’s rail transportation system through technology transfer and ICT talent development.
Huawei aims to provide reskilling training for the railway workforce and advanced ICT technical training for talented individuals seeking new rail job opportunities in the future. Furthermore, Huawei will collaborate on automation and robotics research and development to enhance goods loading and distribution in rail systems.
The Memorandum of Understanding between RTRDA and Huawei marks an important collaboration to cultivate a skilled workforce in advanced ICT for the rail industry.
This strategic alliance will also promote research and development, innovation, and the implementation of various smart systems to enhance Thailand’s infrastructure development and elevate rail transportation management competency.
The ultimate goal is to drive Thailand towards the 20-year Transport System Development Strategy (2018-2037). – The Bangkok Post
