Politics
Minister Denies Merger Plans Between MCOT and Thai PBS
Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi has dismissed rumors regarding a potential merger between MCOT and Thai PBS, confirming that efforts are instead focused on stabilizing MCOT's financial performance.
According to a report by Matichon Online on September 15, 2026, Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Supamas Isarabhakdi has officially addressed public speculation concerning a structural merger between MCOT Public Company Limited and the Thai Public Broadcasting Service (Thai PBS).
Minister Supamas clarified that the reports of a merger are merely rumors and do not reflect current government policy. She emphasized that the administration is currently prioritizing internal management strategies to address MCOT’s financial challenges and prevent further operational losses. The focus remains on restructuring the organization's fiscal health rather than consolidating it with another public media entity.
For residents and expatriates in Thailand, this clarification provides stability regarding the landscape of state-affiliated media. MCOT and Thai PBS serve as significant sources of information and cultural programming; maintaining their separate identities ensures a diversity of broadcasting perspectives.
While the Minister has firmly denied the merger, the specific details of the recovery plan for MCOT have not been fully disclosed. Observers and stakeholders are waiting for further updates on how the government intends to improve the financial viability of MCOT without altering its current operational status. As of now, the status quo for both media organizations remains unchanged.
