Bangkok: Pachara counters Ice Rakchanok, denying that the TH-AI PASSPORT forum was used to whitewash the project, and asserts that it is "cheaper" compared to the market. The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society dismissed Ice Rakchanok's view that the public hearing was a whitewashing move for the "TH-AI PASSPORT project," pointing out that the price was cheaper than the market rate and that once the contract was signed, the terms of reference could not be changed.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Pachara Anantasilsin, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society, stated that the public hearing and exchange of ideas for the TH-AI PASSPORT project was held in accordance with the policy of Mr. Chaichanok Chidchob, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, regarding the project. Mr. Chaichanok will personally receive the feedback on that day, and the private sector contractor will also be invited to attend.
Regarding the discussions held at the forum, Mr. Pachara stated that they would likely negotiate with the client, as they are the contracting party, to determine if the terms of reference (TOR) are acceptable, whether they fall within the scope of the project, and how they can proceed to ensure its success.
Regarding whether the feedback received can be used to change the Terms of Reference (TOR), Mr. Pachara stated that it is not possible because the contract has already been signed. Concerning Ms. Rakchanok Srinok, a list MP from the People's Party, who said that this public hearing would be a whitewashing platform for the project, Mr. Pachara said that it depends on one's perspective, but he views it as being for the benefit of the government and to achieve the project's objectives. Overall, they want as many people as possible to participate. The project's costs are clearly defined; compared to existing market offerings or even those done by the private sector, it is significantly cheaper.