The Cabinet on 6 June 2023 approved the proposal by the Ministry of Education to nominate His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great (Rama IX) for the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)’s list of Eminent Personalities of the World, to mark the 100th birthday anniversary of His Majesty in 2027.

It was told that a committee had been formed to collect and compile relevant information regarding His Majesty King Bhumibol’s life and work, in accordance with the UNESCO criteria. The Ministry of Education will submit the name of His Majesty to UNESCO by 2024, prior to preparations for the centenary celebration of the birth of the late King in 2027.

Born on 5 December 1927, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great earned great distinction as the longest-reigning monarch in Thai history. He passed away on 13 October 2016 at the age of 89, in the 70th year of his reign. His Majesty’s numerous activities and development projects throughout his reign reflected his gracious benevolence, wide-ranging talents, and determination to reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of his people. 

He tirelessly devoted himself to improving the standard of living of the Thai people for sustainable development. His life-long dedication was recognized internationally and received worldwide acclaim. His Majesty bestowed the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy on his subjects. This philosophy is a fundamental principle of Thai values, which has also been internationally acknowledged, and it has guided Thailand toward the goal of sustainable development. It emphasizes a balanced use of material resources, social capital, environmental reserves, and cultural wealth.

Previously, in the 41st session of UNESCO’s General Conference, held in Paris between 9 and 24 November 2021, the names of two Thais, Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana Krom Luang Naradhiwas Rajanagarindra and Phraya Srisundaravohara (Noi Achâryânkura), were added to UNESCO's list of Eminent Personalities of the World, whose anniversaries were set to be celebrated in 2022-2023.