British-Thai monk and Thai national artist win diplomacy award

Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award named three remarkable figures as this year’s recipients, the Thailand Foundation revealed yesterday. A revered monk, an iconic composer, and a leading cultural institution will be honoured for their monumental contributions to promoting Thai culture and values across the globe.

The prestigious honour has gone to Phra Phrompacharayanmuni (Ajahn Jayasaro), a British-Thai Buddhist monk, whose dedication to spreading Thai Theravada Buddhism worldwide earned him his spot.

“Ajahn Jayasaro has played a significant and rigorous role in making the essence of Thai Buddhism known to the world while promoting an international appreciation of Thai identity, culture, and spiritual values.”

Joining him is Somtow Sucharitkul, Thailand’s national treasure and internationally celebrated composer and writer. His art has shaped the global view of Thai culture for decades.

“Somtow’s works have been globally admired and helped promote Thai characteristics for years.”

Rounding out the trio is The Siam Society, a cultural powerhouse in Thailand. Celebrated for its meticulous work documenting Thai art, culture, archaeology, and history, the Society has been a cultural bridge for over 120 years, fostering friendships between Thailand and diverse global communities.

The awards, established by the Foreign Ministry and Thailand Foundation, recognise individuals and groups who promote global goodwill and friendship through cultural diplomacy. The foundation confirmed that the official award ceremony will take place in December at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reported Thai PBS World.

Last year’s recipients were Thailand’s golfing prodigies, Moriya and Ariya Jutanugarn.

In related news, a research team from Chulalongkorn University clinched a United Nations Public Service Award (UNPSA) for Innovation in Public Institutions. This UN award was given for their work titled Academic Insight into Action for Pandemic Response during a recent ceremony in Seoul, South Korea.

In other news, K-pop group BLACKPINK’s Lisa (Lalisa Manoban) took home her second MTV Video Music Award in a jaw-dropping moment that had fans buzzing worldwide.