Thailand marks 95 years of radio broadcasting

Radio broadcasting in the country began in 1928 when an experimental station was initiated in Bangkok. This station, under the Post and Telegraph Department, was located at the mouth of the Ong Ang Canal, one of the canal rings around the old city. The experimental radio station was later moved to Sala Daeng.

Thailand’s first radio station – “Radio Bangkok of Phaya Thai”– commenced its services on February 25, 1930, when Prince Purachatra launched the first transmission from Bangkok Radio Station, Phaya Thai, using a 2.5-kilowatt transmitter. The broadcast coincided with the Coronation Day of King Rama VII and featured a royal address from King Prajadhipok, laying the foundation for radio as a tool for education, trade, and public engagement.

Following its introduction, the Thai government established the Publicity Division, later renamed the Public Relations Department (PRD). It took over the management of radio stations, and today, NBT serves as the country’s primary state broadcaster, responsible for communicating government policies, delivering news, and ensuring nationwide radio access. Over the decades, Thai radio has played a crucial role in public awareness, education, and cultural preservation.

Radio Thailand has been adjusting and developing in light of global advances and has been at work to make its content interesting to the audience.

The station now has six FM national channels, 65 FM provincial channels, three AM national channels, 46 AM provincial channels and World Service. Some Radio Thailand provincial radio stations can be received in neighbouring countries of Thailand like Malaysia, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar.

Sudruetai Lertkasem, Director-General of the Public Relations Department, chaired an event marking the 95th National Radio Day at the Radio Thailand headquarters in Bangkok.

The event saw participation from Chanisa Chomsilp, Executive Director of Radio Thailand, and representatives from various agencies. The gathering recognized radio’s enduring role in Thailand’s media landscape. While broadcasting has evolved with new technology, radio remains a trusted source of news and public service content for audiences across the country.

Sources: www.radioinfo.asia