Digital Minister Energizes Northeast's Soft Power, Opens 2026 Rocket Festival with Digital Strategy to Boost Tourism
Thailand's Digital Minister officially opened the 2026 Rocket Festival in Yasothon Province with plans to boost Northeast tourism through smart technology and cultural preservation initiatives.
On May 11, 2026, Digital Economy and Society Minister Chaiyachon Chidchob, accompanied by Deputy Minister Nan Buntida Somchai and their delegation, traveled to Yasothon Province to officially open the 2026 Bun Bang Fai Festival. The event was welcomed by Provincial Governor Chanchhai Srisrivichay, Yasothon City Mayor Nathapol Naksuk, and other government and private sector leaders, drawing large crowds of locals and tourists.
The minister's team visited the Wimarn Phaya Thaan landmark to assess its potential as a historical and cultural tourism site integrated with smart tourism data systems (Big Data), aimed at attracting more foreign visitors to the Northeast region. They also visited the festival coordination center to review community tourism promotion projects, including Yasothon farm stays and the Lab Yasothon local cuisine campaign.
The opening ceremony included paying respects to the royal portrait and a moment of silence honoring the late Queen Sirikit. Awards were presented to youth champions of the 2026 Runbike World Championship from Japan, and attendees witnessed the spectacular parade of 22 illuminated rockets.
Minister Chaiyachon noted that the Rocket Festival represents the spirit of Northeast Thais and highlighted this year's significant changes—moving the event to evening hours for heat safety and incorporating innovative light, color, and sound technology with the traditional rocket procession. He emphasized that the Digital Economy and Society Ministry is committed to supporting technology-driven initiatives that will enhance Yasothon's soft power, generate community income, and preserve cultural heritage for future generations.
