The Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency (Public Organization) or GISTDA, under the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation (MHESI), has partnered with the Office of the Auditor General of Thailand (OAG) to enhance the efficiency of state auditing and asset management through space technology and geo-informatics. The collaboration was formalized with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Damri Isaranuwat Meeting Room, Building 2, 2nd Floor, Office of the Auditor General of Thailand, Bangkok. The event was attended by Dr. Pakorn Aphapant, Director of GISTDA, and Mr. Montien Charoenphol, Auditor General of Thailand.
Dr. Pakorn Aphapant expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the pivotal role of space technology and geo-informatics in the country’s development across various sectors. He emphasized that integrating GISTDA’s advanced spatial, map, and satellite data with the auditing expertise of the OAG will streamline the monitoring and evaluation of government projects. Traditionally, auditing large-scale government projects, such as canal dredging, pipeline construction, road building, afforestation, and dam construction, required extensive manpower, time, and resources. With satellite and geo-informatics data, audits can now be conducted more efficiently, providing real-time spatial data that enhances project monitoring and compliance verification.
“This collaboration will significantly support the OAG’s e-Audit mission by leveraging up-to-date spatial data and geo-informatics expertise to design robust data systems, ensuring comprehensive data collection and effective area management. This integration will deliver valuable insights and maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of government audits,” said Dr. Pakorn.
Mr. Montien Charoenphol, Auditor General of Thailand, underscored the strategic benefits of this collaboration, aligning with the government’s digital transformation policy. He noted that GISTDA’s technological capabilities would provide the OAG with deeper insights and broader coverage, enhancing the accuracy of risk assessments for government projects. “This partnership marks a significant milestone for the Thai State Audit Office, enabling the use of space technology and geographic information to monitor and analyze government operations, ensuring transparent, cost-effective budget management,” Mr. Montien stated.
This joint initiative represents a crucial step toward modernizing Thailand’s government auditing processes, reinforcing accountability, and optimizing the use of state resources through cutting-edge space technology and geo-informatics.
