The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is helping to turn high-profile corruption cases into the subjects of books, movies and soap opera (lakorn) series, an NACC spokesman revealed Tuesday.
The NACC is paying production houses to create 10 fictional works based on 10 infamous cases — including the Yingluck government's rice scheme and the 1995 Democrat-led Khlong Dan project — said spokesman Vicha Mahakul during an address on the importance of the media in creating a transparent society.
Mr Vicha did not reveal the source of the funds being used.
Actors have been cast, and shooting is underway, though it's unclear how closely the stories will mirror actual events.
The first of these series will air starting from the middle of next year on the True Thai Scene channel.
"We want citizens to understand exactly what corruption is and for them to ask themselves what ways there are to solve the problem and, importantly, how they can contribute to this fight," Mr Vicha said.
He said Hong Kong's success in battling fraudulent practices followed a popular upsurge after the release of movies based on real-life graft scandals.
Official logo of the Office of the National Anti-Corruption Commission
The work is part of a change of strategy for the NACC, which is pledging to open up its activities more.
"In the past, details of graft investigations and corruption cases were kept from the public eye. But we need to make these known to give citizens accurate information regarding these cases. We cannot let people misunderstand our role and start disseminating false beliefs," he said.
"Citizens need access to facts regarding corruption and fraudulent practices at all levels, from the local administration to national graft cases."
He said the news media can play a greater role in battling corruption and the NACC would enlist its help.
He said the NACC is willing to pass on more details about the progress of cases, but sensitive details about proceedings and witnesses will remain confidential for security reasons.