Abdul, Thai generative AI, distinguishes itself from other AI platforms through its localised insights into Thai culture, soft power, regulations and much more.
The name “Abdul”, in the Thai context, refers to a person who knows everything. That is why the name has been used for this Thai generative AI.
Prachya Boonkwan, research team leader of Language and Semantic Technology Research at the National Electronics and Computer Technology Centre (NECTEC) said that under development NECTEC since 2007, Abdul is a customised chatbot, a type of generative AI similar to Chat GPT. It is uniquely adjusted to the context of Thai society.
He added that Abdul works by automatically generating content in response to queries, meaning the users can type questions and it will provide prompt answers using learnt data from sources that date back to 2022.
The users do not have to be afraid of data leakage, because Abdul’s system ensures data privacy and security for users. It protects the users’ personal data.
“The safeguard system is one of Abdul’s key features,” said Prachya.
Economic value
Fortunately, targeting government agencies and the economic sectors in Thailand, Abdul will save cost for the country, instead of spending money to import technology from foreign companies, Prachya emphasised.
Usually, he said, a major organisation has to spend approximately US$200,000 per year on AI technology, adding, “Imagine the cumulative economic impact if 10,000 corporations in Thailand were to use Abdul’s services instead.”
Abdul’s limitations
“Abdul is still in its initial stage,” said Prachya.
The project faces some limitations, such as workforce shortages, data availability and funding. Although the project involves 60 people, Prachya said this is not enough.
Also, Abdul still needs much more data in the system, he added.
It is apparent that ongoing support from and collaboration with the government and private sectors are still needed, said Prachya.
Ultimate goal
Abdul has a long-term ambition. “Our goal goes beyond chatbot capabilities,” Prachya said.
He explained that Abdul aims for multimodality, which is the ability to use and understand different modes of communication or expression, enabling Abdul to speak, listen and understand videos and 3D models.
Potentially, the more intelligent AI becomes, the scarier it will be. People may wonder whether it will overtake us as humans, as depicted in Sci-Fi movies.
Prachya reassured that there is no need to be concerned at this moment. He emphasised that AI currently serves as a tool for mundane and routine tasks, assisting us rather than overtaking us.
Abdul is scheduled for public release by the end of this year.
