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THNIC Participates in “Data Resilience” Panel Discussion on Responding to Submarine Cable Crises

on April 9, 2026 by Administrator

The Thai Network Information Center Foundation (THNIC) participated in a panel discussion, “Data Resilience: Responding to Submarine Cable Crises and Thailand’s Internet Security Strategy”, on April 9, 2026. The event was organized by the Thai Internet Service Provider and Cloud Service Provider Association. Dr. Pensri Arunwatanamongkol, Executive Director of THNIC Foundation, joined as a speaker, exchanging perspectives with experts from service provider sectors to reflect approaches for strengthening Thailand’s readiness in digital infrastructure.

The discussion emphasized the importance of cooperation between government agencies, network providers, and internet-related organizations in enhancing system resilience (Data Resilience) to handle potential crisis situations and to strengthen national digital security.

Regarding domestic infrastructure, Dr. Pensri explained the functioning of internet systems, noting that communication devices interact via IP addresses, while users are familiar with domain names. The Domain Name System (DNS) connects these two components automatically, serving as a core mechanism for accessing online information.

THNIC also continues to drive the Bangkok Neutral Internet Exchange (BKNIX) project, which has been operating continuously for over 11 years. The initiative has deployed root servers and instances of important global domains, including Thailand’s .th and .ไทย domains, within the country to improve performance and internet stability. In addition, various domestic cloud service providers and other services have established systems in Thailand.

“Having these infrastructures located within the country helps ensure that even when some international connection routes experience problems, access to websites and online information remains fast and stable because data can be exchanged directly within the country, reducing dependence on international connectivity,” Dr. Pensri said.

Toward the end of the discussion, attention shifted to a challenge considered even more significant than submarine cable disruptions: the energy crisis. Dr. Pensri noted that energy-related risks are more concerning because data centers require large amounts of electricity to keep systems and servers operating continuously. In situations involving power shortages, electrical outages, or depleted backup fuel supplies, widespread internet service disruptions could occur as a cascading effect.

Furthermore, attacks on critical infrastructure or restrictions on energy transportation routes could significantly increase energy costs and lead to broader crises. Dr. Pensri cited Bangladesh as an example, where measures to limit electricity usage periods have begun to emerge. This highlights an important question: when energy resources are limited, how can they be managed and allocated most effectively?

Khun Morragot Kulatumyotin, President of the Thai Internet Service Provider and Cloud Service Provider Association, added that because data centers are critical national infrastructure, the association sees the need to work closely with energy-related agencies to establish prioritization strategies for resource allocation. Essential infrastructure sectors should be among the last to be affected in the event of a crisis. He emphasized that addressing this issue requires cooperation from all sectors to develop concrete long-term response plans and strategic policies.

THNIC remains committed to strengthening Thailand’s role in the global internet community while continuing to develop digital infrastructure that is secure, resilient, and capable of supporting future changes in the digital world sustainably.