Ex-Senator: Data center debate needs rules, not political war

Thai society frequently falls into the trap of taking sides before examining facts whenever a novel issue emerges. One faction embraces everything associated with the trend, while the opposing group rejects it outright without listening to valid arguments. Consequently, matters that should be resolved through rational discourse devolve into emotional conflicts and political disputes.

Data centers are rapidly entering this very cycle of division. Critics immediately label them as massive energy burdens, whereas proponents argue that raising questions equates to opposing national technological progress. Both reactions occur prematurely before stakeholders evaluate what data centers truly entail and how they should be regulated.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Industry experts in architecture and building design argue that data centers are far from being villains. Instead, they constitute foundational infrastructure for the modern world. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and the digital economy all require robust digital foundations. Transitioning Thailand from a labor-intensive economy toward knowledge-based industries is impossible without accommodating data centers.

Promoting investments does not mean abandoning all rules, just as regulation does not mean prohibiting investments altogether. Rather than hastily enacting new laws, policymakers should ensure existing building control laws and urban regulations are strictly and properly enforced.

Inspecting data center projects requires placing factual documents and legal records directly on the table. Four fundamental questions must be answered transparently for every facility:

• What specific building category was requested in the initial permit?
• What type of construction was officially authorized?
• What was actually constructed on the site?
• What operational purpose is the building serving after completion?

If all documentation aligns with reality and complies with regulations, investors must be protected and supported. Conversely, if discrepancies arise, authorities must take legal action without dragging the issue into unnecessary political warfare.

A major systemic flaw within Thai administration is that regulations governing data centers remain scattered across various ministries and agencies, covering urban planning, energy, environment, and telecommunications. This fragmentation creates excessive bureaucratic discretion, potential loopholes, and operational delays.

Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event

Rather than flooding the country with entirely new legislation, the government should reorganize existing rules into a unified framework. Investors must clearly understand application procedures, officials must know their inspection responsibilities, and the public must be able to audit every phase of development from designers to final approvers.

Source: Matichon Politics