The current Council has been in office for one year since July 2024. As you may well be aware, the year 2024 marked an important milestone for The Siam Society as we celebrated our 120^th anniversary.

In this context, I am pleased to inform you that The Siam Society was deeply honoured to receive the Thailand’s Public Diplomacy Award 2024, conferred by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Thailand Foundation. This prestigious award recognises individuals and organisations that have significantly contributed to enhancing Thailand’s image and cultural presence on the international stage. The award ceremony took place on 6 December 2024 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where the Society was acknowledged alongside two other distinguished recipients for their unwavering commitment to cultural preservation and international outreach.

Further affirming its global standing, the Society was also recently presented with a Certificate of Honour from the President of the Russian Geographical Society, as part of the delegation’s visit to Bangkok this past February. I strongly believe that this recognition underscores our contributions to geographical and cultural knowledge exchange and our role in fostering international cooperation.

Demonstrating our commitment to international collaboration, I am also pleased to inform you that The Siam Society has actively participated in a prominent global forum. Last year, Mrs Somlak Charoenpot, our 2^nd Vice President and Honorary Secretary, and Ms Kanitha Kasina-Ubol, Managing Director, both represented the Society at the International Committee for Museology Asia-Pacific (ICOFOM ASPAC) Annual Symposium 2024 in Shanghai, China. Each had delivered a presentation on the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” emphasising the Society’s role in fostering community engagement in heritage preservation.

On the diplomatic relations front, the Society also had the privilege of welcoming several esteemed diplomats, including the Ambassadors of Guatemala, Portugal, and Bangladesh, over the past several months. These visits facilitated meaningful dialogues on cultural collaboration and strengthened bilateral relationships, reflecting the Society’s role as a hub for international cultural engagement.

In terms of our facilities, many of you may have noticed that the Kamthieng House Museum has been closed to the general public since early 2024. The museum is now in its final phase of restoration, which was undertaken to repair damages to the core structure as a result of age, water, climate damage, as well as the impact of nearby construction projects. In this regard, I would like to personally encourage all of you to join me in contributing to the Kamthieng House Museum Restoration Project.

In pursuit of our mission to conserve the cultural heritage of Thailand and neighbouring countries, The Siam Society also took part in a year-long project entitled “Ancient Lanna Clay Roof Tile: The Value of Kamthieng House Clay Roof Tile Conservation”. Initiated last October and led by Associate Professor Dr Thirayut Inthachak of Chiang Mai University, this scholarly endeavour aims to preserve and examine the architectural and historical significance of ancient Lanna clay roof tiles discovered during the restoration works on the Kamthieng House Museum. It is hoped that the outcome of this project will yield valuable insights into material composition, conservation strategies, and aesthetic integrity, contributing meaningfully to the Society’s ongoing efforts to preserve Lanna architectural heritage for future generations.

As mentioned in my previous report, The Natural History Section, under the guidance of Dr Weerachai, with close coordination by Ms Kanitha, recently reinitiated activities with a meeting in February this year. The core objectives of the Natural History Section are to serve as a platform for scientific discourse and the stewardship of Thailand’s ecological legacy.

In alignment with these goals, the Section is planning a series of activities to connect members with Thailand’s rich natural heritage. This includes an upcoming whale-watching day trip in the upper Gulf of Thailand, scheduled for July this year. The Section also aims to present a minimum of ten public lectures annually, with special attention given to engaging young scientific minds and broadening its reach to newer audiences. In contribution to the upcoming Bangkok Climate Action Week, the Section is also preparing to present lectures centred on pressing ecological themes. Among the proposed topics is a lecture by Dr Warren Brockelman on the impact of atmospheric carbon dioxide on forest regrowth, as well as a possible presentation by Dr Pramote Triboun on biodiversity loss due to climate change. At the same time, to attract a wider readership, the Section has begun collaborating closely with the editorial board of the Natural History Bulletin of The Siam Society (NHBSS) to introduce new article formats, including commentary pieces, conservation news, summaries of meetings, and scientific reviews that may be appealing to a wider audience.

The Asian Plus Connectivity Committee, under the leadership of Mrs Chulamanee Chartsuwan, Chairperson, continued to serve as a dynamic platform for cross-cultural dialogue and regional cooperation, advancing both institutional partnerships and people-to-people engagement. In the past year, a significant milestone was achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation with the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (DARAH) of Saudi Arabia. This landmark agreement marked the beginning of a promising era of collaboration and mutual understanding between the two institutions, paving the way for joint cultural initiatives and research exchanges.

At the same time, the secretariat role for SEACHA was smoothly transferred to the Heritage Conservation Society of the Philippines, in alignment with its current chairmanship. Five distinct workstreams were developed, encompassing themes such as vernacular architecture and climate change, heritage clinics, comparative heritage law, youth networks, and fundraising initiatives. SEACHA organised one international heritage clinic, a SEACHA Exchange Forum, and nine monthly online CHA-Time sessions, two of which focused on vernacular architecture in ASEAN countries. These sessions served as important platforms for knowledge exchange, capacity building, and regional solidarity. The SEACHA Youth Network is also preparing to play an active role in the upcoming Bangkok Climate Action Week in September 2025.

Furthermore, the Committee also cultivated new partnerships with leading institutions, including Asia House of Denmark, the China Centre for International Communications Development (CCICD), and the World Monuments Fund (WMF). Simultaneously, longstanding relationships were further nurtured with the Fraunhofer Center for International Management and Knowledge Economy (Germany), the Russian Geographical Society, and various embassies based in Bangkok. Through its network-building activities and focus on multilateral cooperation, the committee is working to position the Society at the forefront of regional heritage diplomacy, embracing a vision of shared responsibility for cultural preservation across Asia and beyond.

Along similar lines, Siamese Heritage Trust (SHT), under the leadership of Mr Visanu Euarchukiati, Chairperson, continued to serve as a vital platform for community-centred engagement with Thailand’s cultural and natural heritage. This year, the committee deepened its efforts to communicate contemporary heritage issues to broader audiences while cultivating meaningful partnerships and launching impactful initiatives.

A major step forward was the launch of the SHT Knowledge Hub in March this year. The knowledge hub is an online platform designed for real-time access to resources on cultural and natural heritage conservation. Of particular significance is the introduction of Thailand’s first Heritage Alert system, which empowers the public to report threats to heritage sites. The platform reflects the Society’s enduring mission and the spirit of collaboration among individuals who have contributed their expertise and time to this shared cause.

In terms of the public advocacy role, SHT issued an open letter to the Prime Minister expressing concern over the Cabinet resolution to revoke the status of Thap Lan National Park. The letter called for legal protection of individuals with recognised land tenure, while urging the safeguarding of the park from encroachment. The committee’s intervention prompted continued communication with key government agencies, underlining the growing recognition of its voice in matters of national heritage.

At the same time, the “Heritage Matters” column, published in both the Bangkok Post and The Standard, offered critical perspectives on heritage conservation through five articles, with authors ranging from an anthropologist to a Muay Thai boxer. Topics spanned Buddhist heritage, cultural legislation, and community identity, each article reaching thousands of readers across various platforms.

On a related note, I am pleased to inform you that one of the major activities undertaken by SHT this year was the public talk and site visit, “Heritage Journey: Wat Chaiwatthanaram – The Importance of Conservation”. The activity was held in September last year and brought together historians, artisans, and conservation experts in dialogue. Emphasising a “minimum intervention, maximum value” philosophy, the event showcased a collaborative model of heritage stewardship, generously supported by the Fine Arts Department, the World Monuments Fund, and the Ayutthaya Studies Institute.

Further advancing its field-based approach, SHT also organised a study trip under the theme “Unseen Heritage Sites of Phra Pradaeng.” This initiative highlighted the impact of climate change on cultural heritage, particularly issues such as salinity, humidity, and conservation mismanagement.

Lastly, the youth-centred project “Climate Justice in the Cultural Dimension of Urban Communities,” developed in collaboration with Srinakharinwirot University (SWU), Thai PBS, and other civic partners, is currently being carried out. Designed to raise student awareness of climate issues within urban heritage contexts, the project emphasised hands-on engagement and communication skills. The outcome of this project is scheduled for public presentation during Bangkok Climate Action Week this coming September.

The Library Committee, under the guidance of Mr Jumbhot Chuasai, Honorary Librarian, had been working on expanding network with other libraries, particularly those specialising in history, arts, and cultures in Southeast Asia for future collaboration and information exchange, with a mission to promote a greater awareness of the Library’s invaluable resources. In addition, the Library also played a major contributory role in the production of “In Search for Cio Cio San: King Rama V’s Opera of 1907”, a special talk marking the finale of the 120^th Anniversary Celebration.

At the same time, the advocacy and information dissemination program, “The Siam Society Literary Lounge”, which was initiated in 2024, continues to play an integral part in the Society’s 120^th anniversary celebration. A total of six sessions were organised in the past year, where the audience was invited to engage in discussions with distinguished speakers on topics ranging from the arts, history and cultures both in Thai and English languages. In this regard, I am pleased to inform you that the committee will continue to conduct this program as part of knowledge sharing throughout 2025 to 2026.

On the technical front, the Library has been continuously working to upgrade its facilities for the convenience of our members. This includes the installation of reading lights, additional working spaces, the offering of complimentary Wi-Fi, and more. A specific corner has also been set up to showcase books in the Library, according to the monthly theme. Most importantly, the committee is deeply honoured to acknowledge the receipt of more than 500 books that have been donated by members in the past year.

The Lectures Committee, under the guidance of Dr Navamintr Vitayakul, Chairperson, organised a total of 38 on-site lectures, most of which are now available online on The Siam Society’s YouTube Channel. Since its launch in 2023, the “Perspectives on China’s Cultural Heritage” series has continued to offer engaging talks on topics such as historical, aesthetic, and religious exchanges within the region. Several other lectures featured prominent international and Thai scholars discussing topics related to Southeast Asian studies, archaeology, and traditional arts, such as a talk on the reunification of artefacts at Prasat Phanom Rung, and a special lecture on Pali and Thai manuscripts, spanning regions from Japan to Ireland. Additionally, our lecture series has broadened to include contemporary subjects, such as discussions on new Chinese migrants in Thailand and the challenges faced by Thai migrant workers in Israeli agriculture. The Committee also co-organised several well-attended book talks with major publishers, including last year’s presentation that revisited Prince Damrong’s historic expedition to Angkor by Dr Peter Skilling and Dr Chris Baker, and Dr Edward Van Roy’s lecture that explored Portuguese accounts of Siam during times of political upheaval. Moreover, a highly appreciated series of four lectures titled “Enlightenment in This Lifetime: Liberation Through the Practice of the Buddha’s Teaching,” was delivered by former President, Mr Bangkok Chowkwanyun, in November last year. The series focused on the Buddha’s path to enlightenment, meditation practices, and the integration of Dhamma. Looking ahead, the Committee intends to continue organising lectures on a wide array of topics, blending themes of culture and nature to strengthen the Society as a dynamic platform for thoughtful dialogue and the exchange of ideas.

The 120^th Anniversary Committee, led by Dr Chirabodee Tejasen, meticulously designed and curated a special commemorative programme that drew upon the Society’s historical legacy and cultural leadership. A series of four distinguished lectures was organised, featuring eminent scholars and delivered in both Thai and English. Each lecture artfully integrated themes of history, archaeology, literature and natural history, and was curated to embody the Society’s core value, the pursuit of knowledge, as encapsulated in the 120^th anniversary special tagline, “Inspiring the Generations.” The lectures were met with widespread acclaim from both members and non-members. The heart of the celebrations was nothing other than the operatic production “1907: Rama V European Operatic Journey”, an original performance inspired by King Rama V’s cultural encounters during his European tour. The production, staged in October 2024, featured four sold-out performances. A special talk, held in collaboration with the Library, titled “In Search for Cio-Cio San: King Rama V’s Opera Visits of 1907”, complemented the performances, providing historical context and engaging wider audiences.

The Music and Special Events Committee, under the guidance of Mrs Eileen Deeley, organised 13 exceptional performances of classical chamber music. In addition, the concert organised the performances by resident musicians joined with guest artists hailing from Switzerland, the United States, Singapore, Japan, Egypt and Australia. The Thai-Japanese String Orchestra performed with guest members from the Tokyo Symphony Orchestra. Aside from Western classical music, there was an Anthology of Thai Classical Music by the Fine Arts Thai Music Division, and the Levant-Andalucia Trio performed music from the Middle East and Spain. Attendance rates have mostly been at full capacity, underscoring the popularity of our programme, which is now in its 16^th year.

I would also like to take this occasion to acknowledge Mrs Eileen Deeley for her extraordinary dedication and tireless efforts in orchestrating the operatic performance held in celebration of our 120^th anniversary. Her meticulous attention to detail, unwavering commitment, and deep passion for the arts were instrumental in bringing this ambitious production to life. We are profoundly grateful for her remarkable contribution.

The Study Trips Committee, of which I am the Chairperson, organised a total of 19 trips in the past 12 months. This included several overseas trips, including those to Georgia, Sardinia and Corsica, India, Pakistan, Uzbekistan, Bhutan, Turkey, and Indonesia, among others. These trips offered our participants unparalleled access to priceless cultural and historical insights. At the same time, many of our domestic trips placed strong emphasis on themed excursions, such as those highlighting the heritage of the Old Bangkok III and IV, the exploration of unique architectures in Bangkok, along with the discovery of heritage sites across Nan province, Lampang province and surrounding provinces in Central Thailand. In the months ahead, there are trips planned for a cultural expedition to Mongolia for the Naadam Festival, along with a trip to Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Cyprus, and Bangladesh. Looking ahead, the committee will continue to curate trips with a strong emphasis on visiting unexplored destinations of cultural and historical significance. We will also continue to work closely with our leaders to ensure that each journey is intellectually enriching and culturally immersive, while maintaining the highest standards of experience.

The Siam Society has two notable publications, namely, the Journal of the Siam Society (JSS) and the Natural History Bulletin of the Siam Society (NHBSS). For JSS, 2024 marked a significant transition with Dr ML Pattaratorn Chirapravati appointed as Honorary Editor, bringing on board a new editorial team. The 2024 edition of the journal also saw the introduction of a new professional layout, as part of the Society’s 120^th anniversary celebration. Furthermore, the journal also launched several editorial features aimed at broadening its scope and readership, including short archival notes, literary translations, and museum and collection highlights. These additions are designed to complement the journal’s traditional peer-reviewed articles and enhance engagement with both scholars and general audiences.

As mentioned in my report at the previous AGM, these changes follow the decade-long service of the previous editors, Dr Chris Baker and Mr Paul Bromberg, whose contributions are gratefully acknowledged by all of us.

Looking ahead, the journal will continue to focus on articles and book reviews across a range of disciplines, including history, archaeology, art history, anthropology, linguistics, and religious studies. At the same time, the editorial team is also looking into ways of improving the journal’s distribution, particularly to targeted institutions. This reflection should continue and lead to concrete actions in the year ahead.

The NHBSS, with Dr Prachya Musikasinthorn as Honorary Editor, published two issues in 2024, being Volume 66, Number 1 and Volume 66, Number 2. It is my pleasure to report that a refreshed cover design for the journal was also unveiled with Volume 66, Number 1. The journal’s inclusion in Scopus indexing from 2022 onwards also marked an important milestone for the editorial team. Building upon the many positive changes, I am pleased to inform you that the committee will now be focusing on the expansion of content with new formats such as conservation news, non-scientific summaries, and commentary articles in an effort to reach a broader audience.

The Communications Committee, under the guidance of Mr Thweep Rittinaphakorn, continues to play an increasingly vital role in enhancing the visibility of The Siam Society, both among members and broader audiences, by shaping the Society’s public image and advancing its digital communications. Through the active use of the Society’s social media platforms, the committee continues to highlight a wide range of content, including news and activities, publications, journals, library service, and rare book collections. In addition, the committee has overseen the production and filming of several major video projects, including the Society’s corporate presentation, a commemorative video celebrating its 120^th anniversary, and a short documentary on the Kamthieng House restoration, with final releases scheduled for the coming months.

Throughout the year, the Communications Committee has also actively collaborated with other committees to strengthen The Siam Society’s relationships with cultural partners and like-minded organisations. As part of these efforts, the Society has welcomed delegations from various embassies and academic institutions to explore opportunities for future collaboration. In parallel, the committee has worked to reinforce connections with key media outlets, including The Cloud, Sarakadee Lite, and National Geographic Thailand, to broaden public awareness of the Society’s programmes and activities. To underscore the Society’s ongoing commitment to heritage conservation, our representative participated in the “Dialogue on China-ASEAN Cultural Heritage” event to present the work of the Society and to deepen cooperation in the field of cultural heritage between China and ASEAN member states.

The House Administration Committee, led by Mrs Somlak Charoenpot, undertook several enhancements to ensure the successful completion of all projects initiated by each committee. A primary task was to preserve and improve the Society’s historic premises, which include overseeing the complete restoration of the Kamthieng House.

In support of sustainability and environmental responsibility, various regulations and practices were introduced. For example, waste separation bins were implemented on-site to promote better waste management among staff and visitors. Additionally, all units were encouraged to reduce paper usage. At the same time, ongoing attention was given to enhancing the presentation of the Society’s compound, including improvements to landscaping.

The accomplishment of the past year would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our donor. I would like to express my gratitude towards James H.W. Thompson Foundation for the unswerving support of the Society’s Lecture Series over the years. In addition, my sincere appreciation goes to Mr Jumpol Chutima, who has generously coordinated the grant toward the Lanna clay tiles research project from Anusarn Chiangmai Co., Ltd., Kamthieng Development Co., Ltd., and Chiangmai Panich Co., Ltd. I would also like to thank B.GRIMM for their continued support of our activities. The organisation of operatic performances in celebration of our 120^th anniversary would not have been possible without the support of Mrs Pikulkaew Krairiksh, Mr Chali Sophonpanich, and Mrs Kanchana Srifuengfung, along with the support received from The Education & Public Welfare Foundation by Mr Bangkok Chowkwanyun. A special thank you also goes towards Ms Arunee Srifeungfung, who generously contributed to support the works and mission of Siamese Heritage Trust.

At the same time, I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to our Senior Honorary Advisors, Honorary Advisors, Council Members, Committee Chairpersons, Committee Members, and all those who have contributed so generously of their time and expertise to the work of the Society. I am equally grateful to our dedicated volunteers, inspiring speakers, expert study trip leaders, gifted performing artists, and the many scholars who have shared their knowledge and passion with our community.

A special note of appreciation is also due to our devoted staff, whose professionalism, commitment, and tireless efforts have been instrumental in the operation of our programmes and activities.

Above all, I offer my deepest thanks to our members. Your steadfast patronage, thoughtful feedback, and words of encouragement continue to sustain and inspire us. It is through your enduring support that we are able to carry forward our mission to preserve, promote, and protect the rich cultural heritage of Thailand and the Southeast Asian region—now and for generations to come.

Bilaibhan Sampatisiri

President