Bangkok: The State Enterprise Policy Office (SEPO) has confirmed that there will be no merger between MCOT Public Company Limited and the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS), while also preparing to submit a rehabilitation plan for eight state enterprises to the Cabinet. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Ekniti Nitithanprapas, acknowledged awareness of the merger speculation through media channels but clarified that no official proposal has been presented by any agency.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Thibdee Watanakul, Director of SEPO, disclosed that the State Enterprise Policy Committee had recently approved a rehabilitation and efficiency improvement plan for eight state enterprises, including MCOT. The plan is aimed at enhancing the operational efficiency of these entities, though specific details about the measures concerning MCOT remain undisclosed due to its status as a publicly listed company.
The National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) reiterated that no proposal exists to merge MCOT with Thai PBS. The NBTC highlighted structural, cultural, and legal differences between the organizations as significant factors preventing a merger. It emphasized that Thai PBS will continue to operate independently, fulfilling its mission as a flexible public broadcaster.
Previously, Ms. Supamas Isarabhakdi, Minister attached to the Prime Minister's Office, overseeing MCOT, confirmed that no directives regarding a merger had been issued. She noted MCOT's collaboration with SEPO to address financial performance and organizational restructuring to boost competitiveness.
In the coming week, SEPO plans to present its revitalization and efficiency improvement plan for MCOT and the other state enterprises to the Cabinet. A press conference will follow the Cabinet meeting to elaborate on the proposed plan and its anticipated benefits for MCOT.