Thailand is taking a major step toward the future of energy, and safety is leading the way. Dr.Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI), has launched a forward-looking strategy under the "Frontier Innovation" and "Green Energy Innovation Thailand" frameworks, preparing the country to harness Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology — compact, next-generation nuclear power designed with advanced safety standards.

● Building International Trust 

To turn this vision into action, Dr. Rungruang Kitphati, Secretary-General of Thailand's Office of Atoms for Peace (OAP), recently led a delegation to Beijing for bilateral talks with China's National Nuclear Safety Administration (NNSA), one of the world's leading nuclear safety regulators.

● What's at stake 

The collaboration aims to fast-track Thailand's readiness for SMR technology by developing robust laws, licensing systems, and inspection standards well ahead of deployment. Beyond energy, this nuclear expertise will also support precision medicine, high-tech industry, agriculture, and food security — all under Thailand's Frontier Innovation framework.

Public safety remains central to the plan, with strengthened monitoring systems, emergency preparedness, careful radioactive waste management, and transparent communication to build public trust.

● Looking ahead

Talks are underway for a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with NNSA, covering expert exchange, workforce training, and joint research on global regulatory standards, positioning Thailand to compete globally while tackling climate change through safe, secure, and sustainable energy innovation.