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Success! True and DDPM Complete All 3 Levels of Cell Broadcast Emergency Alert Testing as Planned. Final Large-Scale Test Completed in 5 Provinces, Reaching Over 11 Million People

13 May 2025


  • True and dtac customers received messages promptly and in the targeted areas
  • Ready to deliver timely alerts in the event of real disasters!

 

 

Bangkok, May 13, 2025 – True Corporation Plc in collaboration with the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), successfully completed all three levels of the Cell Broadcast emergency alert system tests. The most recent test, conducted on a large (provincial) scale, sent emergency messages to mobile phones in five major provinces: Chiang Mai, Ayutthaya, Udon Thani, Nakhon Si Thammarat and Bangkok. These provinces collectively have a population of over 11 million people. The test results demonstrated True’s readiness and capability to send timely, location-specific emergency alerts. This initiative marks a major step forward in the joint efforts between public and private sectors to develop a nationwide, accurate, and comprehensive emergency warning system, aimed at enhancing public safety in disaster-prone areas.

 

Mr. Paskorn Boonyalug, Director-General of the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation (DDPM), said that “the large-scale Cell Broadcast test in collaboration with True Corporation on May 13th, 2025 at 1:00 PM marks another milestone in preparing Thailand’s emergency alert system. This test covered five major provinces and achieved its objectives efficiently. After completing all three testing levels, DDPM is fully prepared to issue timely and effective disaster warnings, ensuring the safety of both Thai citizens and foreign tourists.”

Mr. Chakkrit Urairat, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer of True Corporation Plc. said that “successfully completing the Cell Broadcast alert tests at all three levels—local, regional, and provincial—represents a key milestone in elevating Thailand’s emergency alert system. True, in partnership with DDPM, is the first private operator to fully equip all 4G and 5G cell towers nationwide with Cell Broadcast Service (CBS). The system supports emergency message delivery in five languages across different geographic levels—from specific base stations to entire provinces, regions, or the whole country. Its key strength lies in the ability to instantly and accurately deliver alerts to specified areas without requiring users to install any apps, ensuring maximum effectiveness during emergencies.”

He also noted that “the test revealed some users did not receive messages, typically due to incompatible devices or outdated operating systems. We advise True and dtac customers to check their devices and update to Android 11 or above, or iOS 18 or above, to ensure they can receive emergency alerts in real situations.”

Mr. Chakkrit concluded that “the Cell Broadcast system not only raises Thailand’s alert standards to international levels but also enhances the public safety experience for both Thai citizens and tourists. True remains committed to working with government agencies and ensuring our customers receive the best support in emergency situations.”

 

 

According to the April 2025 population registration data from the Department of Provincial Administration, the five test provinces have a combined population of over 11 million:

  • Chiang Mai: 1,798,493
  • Ayutthaya: 822,688
  • Udon Thani: 1,550,212
  • Nakhon Si Thammarat: 1,533,104
  • Bangkok: 5,442,588