Bangkok, Thailand – Thailand Post is taking on a pivotal role in the upcoming 2025 Population and Housing Census, collaborating with the National Statistical Office (NSO) and the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE). This groundbreaking project aims to collect comprehensive data across the nation, employing over 25,000 postal workers to conduct face-to-face interviews, thereby ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the information gathered.
Dr. Danan Suphattharaphun, CEO of Thailand Post Company Limited, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, emphasizing the postal service's strengths in reaching remote areas and building trust with local communities. The field operations will initiate on March 20, 2025, following a preliminary online registration phase which is already complete.
Dr. Danan remarked, “We believe this initiative is not just about numbers but about enhancing the nation’s developmental policies. Our extensive network allows us to access every corner of the country, making us the sole agency responsible for this important field data survey.”
The Census will be conducted through various methods, including online and face-to-face surveys. The deployment of postal workers for ground operations will primarily target households unable to access digital channels, ensuring inclusivity and accuracy.
Prasert Chantharathong, Minister of Digital Economy and Society, reiterated the government's commitment to enhancing the population data's precision through multiple innovative collection techniques. “The 2025 survey will leverage digital methods and SMS notifications alongside our collaboration with Thailand Post. This partnership is instrumental for reaching demographics less likely to participate through digital means,” he stated.
The project targets 11 provinces, including Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket, with the ultimate aim of surveying approximately 4 million households. The data collected will assist policymakers across various domains—economic, social, and infrastructural—in crafting comprehensive developmental strategies for the future.
Dr. Danan expressed optimism about citizens' cooperation during the process, citing the established rapport between postal workers and the communities they serve. “The approach we’re adopting this year enables us to gather not just data but encourages conversations. Each household interview averages about ten minutes, allowing us to focus on key areas rather than achieving 100% data completeness,” he explained.
This collaboration is expected to significantly improve the accuracy of population statistics, as the integration of the 'Postman Cloud' technology enhances logistics and data collection efficiency. Dr. Danan added, “Using our digital capabilities will benefit the public sector, making it easier to acquire detailed insights necessary to inform national policy.”
Alongside the census responsibilities, Thailand Post has been developing other services, aiming to maximize its existing workforce to extend its offerings beyond traditional mail and parcel delivery. The 'Postman Cloud' initiative will also provide skill-building opportunities for postal workers, enhancing their analytical capabilities, enriching their professional experience, and aiding future initiatives.
“Our postal workers are equipped to gather data with sensitivity and accuracy. This project also bolsters our trustworthiness as we prepare for future expansions,” Dr. Danan emphasized. The efforts tied to this census are not merely logistic but integral to fostering responsible governance and community engagement.
Participants in the census will have the opportunity to respond via various digital platforms, including the state government website and dedicated applications. This multi-channel approach aims to facilitate easier participation for every demographic segment, ensuring comprehensive data representation.
With expectations for increased engagement, the census will also allow Thailand Post to reaffirm its position as more than just a postal service but as an enabler of national advancement. The data collected is expected to inform key governmental decisions for the coming years, illustrating the collaboration’s impact on the country’s demographic insights.
To conclude, the cross-sector partnership between Thailand Post, the DE, and the NSO epitomizes the innovative spirit necessary for effective governance and societal progress. Each stakeholder recognizes the value of accurate data collection, confident it will lead to enhanced public services and informed policy-making.
