Comparing ICT and e-government policy implementation in Thailand and Indonesia: success or failure?

Abstract

This chapter seeks to evaluate e-government and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) actor-centered policy implementation in Thailand and Indonesia. It reviews existing literature, analyzing the interaction of government and citizens. It seeks to answer the following questions. Who are the key actors in driving the implementation of ICT and e-government policies in Thailand and Indonesia? How do local citizens perceive e-government and ICT implementation efforts across both nations? What are major risk factors embedded in e-government initiatives? Some scholars emphasize the role of governments in driving ICT implementation toward E-government 4.0. However, the often-omitted role of the public in driving implementation and digital divide remains crucial in the developing world, including Thailand and Indonesia. Other issues, e.g., concentration of political power at the central government level versus local governments and a range of other actors, should be taken into account. Remaining issues include high-level political corruption, the digital divide, the need to improve e-government implementation in remote peripheries, and the importance of providing good services to citizens.