The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Thailand Foundation hosted the Presentation Ceremony for Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award 2024 (PDA2024) on December 6th, 2024 at the Vithes Samosorn ceremonial hall.
This year’s honorees include the Venerable Phra Phrompacharayanmuni (Ajahn Jayasaro), The Siam Society Under Royal Patronage, and renowned composer and author Somtow Sucharitkul.
Over 200 attendees, including diplomats, representatives from international organizations, government officials, and media personnel, participated in the event.
Recipients of the Public Diplomacy Award 2024
Venerable Phra Phrompacharayanmuni (Ajahn Jayasaro) was recognized for promoting Thai Theravada Buddhism internationally. The British-born Thai monk’s work has sparked global interest in Buddhist teachings and attracted learners to Thailand, enhancing the understanding of Thai identity, culture, and spirituality through the lens of Buddhism.
In an interview with Thailand NOW, Ajahn Jayasaro said he hoped the award will help people “wake up” to the practical teachings of Buddhism. “We have this incredible resource; there’s no country in the world that has this kind of resource,” he said, referring to Theravada Buddhism in Thailand.
The Siam Society Under Royal Patronage was celebrated for its 120-year commitment to preserving Thai cultural heritage. The Siam Society has fostered an international appreciation of Thai art, culture, and history, facilitating cultural exchanges and strengthening relationships between people and institutions globally.
President of the Siam Society Bilaibhan Sampatisiri accepted the award on behalf of the institution, saying “I think the award is for the work of so many people that dedicate themselves to the conservation, the history, and the preservation of cultural heritage of Thailand.” She added that it comes as great moral support to the Society’s motto: “Knowledge Gives Rise to Friendship.”
Somtow Sucharitkul (S. P. Somtow) was honored for showcasing Thai identity through his prolific career in music, film, and literature. His artistic contributions over the past five decades have brought international acclaim and highlighted Thailand’s rich cultural landscape.
S. P. Somtow took the opportunity to tease his ambitions for the future. “Little do they [the award body] know that I have a lot of huge plans,” he said, adding, “I want to make sure that the next generation is able to go on.”
Advancing people-to-people diplomacy
Established in 2022, Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award, bestowed by the Thailand Foundation, acknowledges individuals and organizations that enhance Thailand’s global recognition and foster a better international understanding of “Thainess.”
The award comprises a trophy, a place on the Award’s “Wall of Fame,” Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a certificate, and monetary support for the recipients’ ongoing work. Previous awardees include otolaryngologist Dr. Soontorn Antarasena in 2022 and golf champions Moriya and Ariya Jutanugarn in 2023.
Founded in 2007, the Thailand Foundation continues to promote goodwill and cultural exchanges between Thailand and the international community.
Teerin Julsawad 
Paul Rujopakarn