The minister attached to the PM’s office, Ormsin Chivapruck welcomed delegates on behalf of the Thai Prime Minister at the opening ceremony of Radio Asia in Bangkok.

“It is a privilege for Thailand to host this conference… Radio remains an important form of media because it is dynamic and highly interactive,” he said.

Broadcasters need to adapt themselves to the new media environment, he said.

“Radio is being challenged by social media, and audience consumption habits have changed. Radio needs to seek a new strategy of creating content with its audience.”

The minister said he was pleased to see that ABU members have come together in this conference to work out ways to strengthen radio.

“The Thai government places great importance on access to information for the people of Thailand. There is an opportunity to achieve social equality…”

He said the Thai government expects the media to “play their part” in promoting good governance and creating a successful society.

“Thailand is also embracing digital technology as the country is moving toward… It will promote equality and competitiveness,” he said.

ABU secretary general Javad Mottaghi said Thailand has a large radio industry with many FM stations in Bangkok.

“With a history of more than 100 years, radio has served the world with information, entertainment and education. A huge amount of information is now available… The opportunity for radio is to contiunue to deliver engaging content in a more competitive environment.

“The key to success is to win the trust of the public. Radio must adopt multi media approaches and be on new platforms, as well as continuing to produce quality reliable programs on existing channels.”