11 June 2026

The current Council has now been in office for one year since July 2025. Throughout the past year, The Siam Society continued to carry forward its longstanding mission through a wide range of scholarly, cultural, and public initiatives, while further strengthening its role as an important platform for heritage preservation, intellectual exchange, and international cooperation.

At the same time, the year was also marked by profound national sorrow following the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, esteemed Vice-Patron of The Siam Society. Throughout her lifetime, Her Majesty demonstrated unwavering dedication towards the preservation and promotion of Thai arts, traditional craftsmanship, textiles, and cultural heritage, values which have long remained deeply aligned with the mission of the Society itself. In this regard, the Society joined the nation in mourning and remembrance, and many of our activities during the period were conducted in a more subdued and reflective manner out of the deepest respect for Her Majesty’s immeasurable contributions to the cultural life of Thailand.

Despite these solemn circumstances, the Society continued to advance a number of important institutional and international initiatives over the course of the year. Among the highlights was the highly successful presentation of “Mozart’s Requiem: Concert in Memoriam 1925–2025”, held within the opulence of the Devaraja Sabharamaya Hall at Phya Thai Palace. Conceived to mark the centenary of the passing of His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI), the Society’s first Patron, as well as the birth centenary of Her Royal Highness Princess Bejaratana Rajasuda, the concert served as a fitting tribute to two royal figures whose enduring commitment to arts, culture, and intellectual life continues to resonate deeply with the mission of the Society. Under the musical direction of Mr Voraprach Wongsathapornpat, the performance brought together distinguished vocal soloists, choir members, established artists, and emerging talents in an evening of remembrance, artistic excellence, and cultural continuity. At the same time, the Devaraja Sabharamaya Hall itself also stands as an architectural testament to His Majesty’s vision of harmonising Western artistic traditions with Thai cultural expression. The overwhelming success of this event is also made possible with the support provided by Mr Bangkok Chowkwanyun, on behalf of The Education and Public Welfare Foundation.

Another notable milestone was the signing of an Executive Programme between The Siam Society and the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (DARAH) of Saudi Arabia. This important cooperation framework is expected to facilitate future collaboration in the areas of scholarly exchange, publications, exhibitions, academic programmes, and research activities, while further strengthening cultural understanding and institutional ties between Thailand and Saudi Arabia.

On a similar front, the Society also achieved another important milestone through the formalisation of its relationship with the École française d’Extrême-Orient (EFEO). Although the Society and EFEO have maintained close scholarly relations for more than a century, this year marked the first formal agreement between the two institutions. I strongly believe that this development reflects the continued international recognition of The Siam Society as an important institution for Southeast Asian studies, heritage scholarship, and cultural exchange.

As we reflect upon the Society’s many undertakings over the past year, I believe it is also important to recognise that none of these achievements would have been possible without the continued generosity, goodwill, and spirit of volunteerism shown by our donors, patrons, members, and friends of the Society. For more than a century, The Siam Society has endured and evolved through the collective belief that knowledge, culture, heritage, and scholarship are worthy of preservation and support. Equally, the Society has long depended upon the dedication of those who generously contribute their time, expertise, and energy in service of its mission. I would therefore like to express my heartfelt gratitude to our lecturers, performers, study trip leaders, Council Members, Committee Members, advisors, volunteers, and all those who have contributed to the Society’s activities throughout the year. Whether through lectures, publications, heritage conservation, study trips, public programmes, or the ongoing restoration of the Kamthieng House Museum, the Society’s work continues to rely greatly upon the commitment and encouragement of individuals who believe in the importance of intellectual exchange, cultural stewardship, and public service.

In this regard, I would also like to encourage our members and friends not only to support the Society through donations, sponsorships, and participation in our activities, but also to consider contributing their knowledge, experience, and time as volunteers in the Society’s various programmes and committees. Every contribution, regardless of scale, remains deeply meaningful to the continued work and long-term sustainability of the Society. It is through this enduring spirit of generosity, volunteerism, and cultural stewardship that The Siam Society has been able to serve Thailand as a hub of knowledge for more than a century, and it is my sincere hope that this tradition of support and active participation will continue in the decades to come.

The Natural History Section, under the guidance of Dr Weerachai Nanakorn, continued to serve as an important platform for scientific discourse, environmental awareness, and the appreciation of Thailand’s rich ecological heritage.

Among the highlights of the year was the whale-watching trip in the Upper Gulf of Thailand, which was very well received by participants. The group had the opportunity to observe more than 50 whale sightings, with some whales coming within close proximity of the boat. The positive response from participants reflected a strong interest in natural history activities that are accessible and capable of engaging a wider body of audiences. It is also worth noting that participants expressed appreciation for the reduction in the use of plastic bottles during the trip, which I believe is a reflection of the Society’s broader commitment to environmental responsibility.

At the same time, the Natural History Section also placed strong emphasis on field-based learning, where a half-day birdwatching trip to parks in and around Bangkok, as well as a two-day birdwatching trip to Laem Phak Bia District in Phetchaburi Province, took place earlier this year. The trips were led by Mr Philip Round, a leading ornithologist, together with the Bird Conservation Society of Thailand. I believe that these activities are important not only in connecting our members with Thailand’s natural environment, but also towards the appreciation and understanding of Thailand’s biodiversity.

On the conservation front, the Natural History Section also responded to the environmental concern regarding the wetland at Wiang Nong Long in Chiang Saen District, Chiang Rai Province, which was brought to the attention of the Society. The site was noted as an important habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife along the Mekong River. In response, the Natural History Section proposed the organisation of public forums under the umbrella of The Siam Society, bringing together academics, scientists, civil society representatives, community leaders, relevant government agencies, and members of the public to discuss the ecological and social significance of the wetland. This initiative strongly reflects the Society’s important role as a platform for informed dialogue on matters of natural heritage and environmental stewardship.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to Dr Weerachai Nanakorn, Mr James Stent, Dr Pramote Triboun, and all those who have contributed to the revitalisation and continued development of the Natural History Section.

The Asian Plus Connectivity Committee, under the leadership of Mrs Chulamanee Chartsuwan, continued to expand the Society’s regional and international engagement through collaborative initiatives spanning cultural heritage, sustainability, academic exchange, and public diplomacy. Throughout the year, the Committee positioned The Siam Society within regional conversations on heritage preservation, climate action, and cross-cultural cooperation.

Among the Committee’s key achievements was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the École française d’Extrême-Orient (EFEO) — the first formal agreement between the two institutions after more than a century of close cooperation — and the signing of an Executive Programme with Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), further extending the Society’s network of structured international partnerships. Both agreements are expected to facilitate future collaboration in research, academic exchange, exhibitions, and cooperative programming.

The Committee joined hands with other Committees in the Society’s participation in Bangkok Climate Action Week 2025 (BKKCAW), for which The Siam Society served as one of the central venues. A highlight was the exhibition “Wastheritage: The Ephemeral Value” by Asst Prof Eggarat Wongcharit — an installation crafted from discarded packaging and foam, placed in dialogue with the Society’s historical artefacts to invite reflection on value, waste, and the transformative potential of upcycling (1–8 October 2025). The programme further encompassed seminars on Thailand’s Clean Air Act, international cooperation for clean air, sustainable finance for Asia, and regional practices among World Heritage Sites in responding to climate change.

The youth dimension during BKKCAW was anchored by the Southeast Asian Cultural Heritage Alliance (SEACHA) Youth Panel, “Weaving the Future: Youth, Heritage, and the Climate Cost of What We Wear.” This panel convened young representatives from Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines, Vietnam, and Singapore in a dialogue on fashion, heritage, and ecological responsibility. This event exemplified the committee’s commitment to engaging the next generation in regional heritage discourse.

The Committee would also like to express its sincere gratitude to Mr James Stent for his generous financial support of The Siam Society’s participation in Bangkok Climate Action Week 2025. His contribution played an important role in enabling the Society to host a diverse programme of exhibitions, seminars, and youth engagement activities, further strengthening our efforts to promote dialogue on cultural heritage, sustainability, and climate action.

Cultural diplomacy remained a key dimension of the committee’s work. The Society hosted the debut performance in Thailand of Mariachi Bonitas de Dinorah Klingler (September 2025), marking the 50^th anniversary of Mexico–Thailand Diplomatic Relations.  Cooperation with the Embassy of Denmark led to a highly successful lecture by Prof Henrik Balslev on “Thailand’s Flora From Past to Present — at the Crossroad Between Tropical and Himalayan Biota” (4 November 2025).  Additionally, cooperation with the Embassy of Russia resulted in two photo exhibitions — Cultural Heritage of Russia and Kizhi: The Revived Masterpiece of Russia — held in December 2025. The Society is also designated as a Bangkok venue for the European Union Film Festival 2026 (18–28 June 2026).

On the broader institutional front, the Committee continued to develop various projects with SEACHA, including SEACHA’s online talk series Cha-Time #41 with Dr Wimonrart Issarathumnoon of Chulalongkorn University on the governance complexities of privately owned heritage buildings.  It also advanced discussions with the International National Trusts Organisation (INTO) on the adoption of an INTO Southeast Asia identity and the strengthening of collaborative regional networks. It also explored expanded engagement involving Timor-Leste, Brunei, and Cambodia.

I would like to express my sincere appreciation to Mrs Chulamanee Chartsuwan, the committee members, SEACHA partners, collaborating institutions, embassies, youth participants, and all those whose active contributions made the year’s activities possible. I strongly believe that the committee is well-positioned to deepen the Society’s regional and international partnerships while advancing its role as a platform for heritage dialogue and cultural understanding across Southeast Asia.

Along similar lines, Siamese Heritage Trust (SHT), under the leadership of Mr Visanu Euarchukiati, continued to strengthen its role as one of the Society’s leading platforms for heritage advocacy, conservation awareness, and public engagement. Throughout the past year, the committee undertook a wide range of initiatives relating to cultural heritage preservation, environmental stewardship, public communication, and youth engagement.

During Bangkok Climate Action Week, SHT organised two panel discussions under the series “Shifts by Degrees: Culture and Climate Change,” which explored the intersection between climate change, cultural heritage, and environmental sustainability. The sessions were well attended and reflected SHT’s continued efforts to position cultural heritage within broader contemporary discussions concerning climate resilience and sustainable development.

At the same time, SHT also continued to expand the reach and practical use of the SHT Knowledge Hub through educational outreach and public engagement activities. During the year, the Knowledge Hub was introduced to students through engagements with the Cultural Management Programme at Chulalongkorn University and the College of Innovation at Thammasat University, where discussions focused on the importance of heritage documentation, public participation, and the role of younger generations in heritage conservation. Alongside these activities, SHT continued to respond to heritage concerns submitted through its “Heritage Alert” function, including cases concerning Wat Chaeng Ron, Wat Khian, the former Netherlands (Dutch) Embassy, and Wat Bang Krai Nai in Nonthaburi Province. These efforts included investigation, coordination with relevant authorities, including the Fine Arts Department, public communication through SHT’s media channels, and continued consultation on heritage-related matters.

At the same time, SHT also organised the study trip “Drifting Along an Ancient Canal: Water, Plants and Ayutthaya’s Biocultural Heritage,” which brought participants on an exploration of the Bang Phra Khru Canal and its surrounding ecological and cultural landscape. The programme was particularly well received for its thoughtful integration of canal-side ecology, riparian vegetation, local heritage interpretation, and discussions concerning the long-standing relationship between waterways, communities, and cultural landscapes.

Building upon SHT’s growing role as a collaborative platform for heritage professionals and institutions, preparations also continued for the upcoming Heritage Partners Network Day under the theme “Our Heritage” and Disaster Risk Management. Conceived as a forum bringing together conservation practitioners, cultural institutions, government agencies, and heritage professionals, the programme is expected to include a discussion, heritage clinics, a disaster risk management workshop for collections, and film screenings addressing the preservation of cultural heritage in times of conflict and environmental uncertainty.

On a more recent note, members of SHT, including myself, had the opportunity to visit the Khuang Luang Wiang Kaew Development Project in Chiang Mai, where The Siam Society has served in an advisory capacity since 2021. Located on the former site of the Women’s Correctional Institution in the heart of Chiang Mai’s old city, the project represents an important effort to reveal and interpret the area’s layered cultural heritage through archaeological excavation, conservation, landscape design, and public engagement. The visit also provided a valuable opportunity to follow up on the progress of the project and exchange views with representatives from the Chiang Mai Provincial Office and the Fine Arts Department. In many respects, I believe that the project stands as an encouraging example of collaboration between provincial authorities, archaeologists, conservation specialists, and civil society in safeguarding and communicating the historical layers of Chiang Mai’s urban heritage in a manner that remains relevant and accessible to the public today.

Looking ahead, it is my hope that SHT will continue to expand its work in the areas of heritage advocacy, conservation awareness, public communication, and regional collaboration. I am confident that these undertakings will strengthen the Society’s role as an important platform for dialogue, education, and public participation in matters relating to heritage conservation.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to Mr Visanu Euarchukiati, together with the members of the Siamese Heritage Trust Committee, scholars, partner organisations, volunteers, youth participants, and all those who have contributed so actively towards the committee’s activities throughout the year. Their collective dedication continues to play an important role in advancing the Society’s mission to preserve and promote the cultural and natural heritage of Thailand for future generations.

The Library Committee, under the guidance of Mr Jumbhot Chuasai, Honorary Librarian, continued to play an important role in advancing the Society’s mission of scholarship, knowledge preservation, and public engagement. Throughout the past year, the committee worked actively towards strengthening the Library not only as a repository of books and archival materials, but also as a dynamic and cultural space within the Society.

One of the committee’s important ongoing initiatives is “The Siam Society Literary Lounge”, which has now, in its third year, become a well-established platform for thoughtful discussion and exchange on topics relating to history, arts, culture, literature, and society. During the past year, the programme featured several distinguished speakers and engaging sessions in both Thai and English languages, encouraging meaningful dialogue between scholars, writers, practitioners, and members of the public in an intimate and welcoming setting. The programme featured a remarkably wide range of topics spanning history, literature, archaeology, architecture, diplomacy, craftsmanship, natural history, and global cultural exchange. Discussions explored subjects as diverse as post-war experiences, culinary heritage, Southeast Asian internationalism, maritime exploration, royal correspondence, early Thai legal publications, colonial-era literature, royal fashion diplomacy, and the emergence of the architectural profession in modern Thailand.

A particular highlight was the interactive workshop “Make Your Own Cuneiform Inscription” led by Dr Peerapat Ouysook, which offered participants a rare hands-on experience with ancient writing systems. Together with discussions on traditional bronze casting and other specialised subjects, the programme continued to position the Society’s library and collections as dynamic spaces for scholarship, dialogue, and public learning.

At the same time, the committee also took part in the “Human Library: One on One Live Lab” initiative, organised in collaboration with Museum Siam Library, TK Park, the libraries of Thammasat University and Silpakorn University, and other participating institutions. The initiative replaces traditional reading with structured one-on-one conversations, allowing members of the public to engage directly with selected “human books” from diverse professional and cultural backgrounds. Sessions were held at Museum Siam Library, Silpakorn University, Wang Tha Phra Campus, and The Siam Society. I strongly believe that this programme reflects the Society’s broader commitment towards fostering dialogue, self-discovery, and the sharing of knowledge in formats that remain accessible and meaningful to younger audiences.

Alongside its other activities, the committee also continued to manage improvements to the Library’s facilities and member services. This included the cataloguing of newly acquired books, the receipt of numerous valuable book donations, and the continued presentation of monthly thematic book displays designed to encourage greater public engagement with the Library’s collections. Through these various undertakings, it is hoped that the Library will continue to evolve as an increasingly active platform for learning, cultural reflection, and intellectual exchange.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to Mr Jumbhot Chuasai, together with the Library Committee, staff members, volunteers, and all those who have contributed so generously to the continued development of the Library and its programmes throughout the year.

The Lectures Committee, under the guidance of Dr Navamintr Vitayakul, continued to organise a wide range of lectures and public programmes covering topics relating to history, archaeology, religion, heritage, literature, contemporary society, and regional cultural studies. Throughout the past year, the committee continued to strengthen the Society’s role as an important platform for intellectual exchange and thoughtful dialogue by bringing distinguished scholars, writers, diplomats, curators, and cultural practitioners from Thailand and abroad to explore a wide range of subjects.

During the past year, The Siam Society organised a total of 39 lectures in both Thai and English, presenting an exceptionally diverse programme that ranged from Thailand’s earliest civilisations at Si Thep and the Japanese community in Ayutthaya, to Indo-Persian Muslim communities in Siam, sacred landscapes of Sri Lanka, wartime Southeast Asia, and contemporary interpretations of Isan folk performance traditions.

A recurring strength of the programme was its ability to connect Thailand’s history and culture with broader regional and global contexts. Lectures examined themes such as Thailand–UK diplomatic relations, Ho Chi Minh’s covert activities in Siam, French Indochina, festivals across Southeast Asia, and the role of Thai visas in saving Jewish refugees during the Second World War. The programme also fostered dialogue on contemporary issues surrounding cultural heritage and museum ethics, including discussions on displaced cultural objects.

Religion and Buddhist studies formed a particularly strong focus throughout the year. In October 2025, The Siam Society launched the Buddhism: Expectation and Reality Lecture Series. The series began with a special programme that combined three lectures with the photo exhibition In the Footsteps of Lord Buddha, in collaboration with the Oriental Cultural Heritage Sites Protection Alliance. The wider series also featured lectures that explored Buddhist material culture, meditation, sustainability, and contemporary spiritual practice.

The programme also benefited from several important institutional collaborations. In partnership with the Embassy of Denmark in Thailand, The Siam Society hosted Thailand’s Flora From Past to Present — at the Crossroad Between Tropical and Himalayan Biota by Dr Henrik Balslev, which explored the ecological and botanical diversity of Thailand. Another highlight was The Universal Museum in a Globalized World, featuring Max Hollein, Director of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, whose visit underscored the Society’s role as a platform for international dialogue on museums and cultural heritage.

Moreover, the Society remains committed to making knowledge accessible to the widest possible audience through its programme of free public lectures in Thai, which continue to attract strong public interest. A recent highlight was “Moors” of Siam: The Indo-Persian Muslim Community in Ayutthaya by Dr Julispong Chularatana in May 2026. The talk combined historical scholarship with AI-generated visual reconstructions to explore the architecture, communities, and cultural influences of Indo-Persian Muslims in Ayutthaya. The lecture’s enthusiastic reception reflected the public’s growing interest in accessible, high-quality Thai-language scholarship and reaffirmed the Society’s role as a bridge between academic research and the wider community.

I am especially grateful to Dr Navamintr for his thoughtful guidance and contribution in shaping another successful and stimulating year of the lecture programme that demonstrated The Siam Society’s continued role as a leading centre for public intellectual exchange. My sincere thanks are also extended to the members of the Lecture Committee for their continued support and collaboration, as well as to all the speakers whose generosity in sharing their knowledge and expertise made the programme both enriching and inspiring.

The Music and Special Events Committee, under the guidance of Mrs Eileen Deeley, continued to present a distinguished programme of performances that further strengthened The Siam Society’s role as a prominent venue for cultural appreciation and artistic exchange. During the past year, the committee organised eight musical events, featuring our resident musicians together with guest artists from Switzerland, Mexico, and Germany. Through these performances, the Society continued to provide members and the wider public with opportunities to experience a rich diversity of musical traditions in an intimate and congenial setting.

Among the highlights of the year was the performance by the Mariachi Bonitas Band, organised in celebration of the 50^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mexico and Thailand. The programme also included “Mozart’s Requiem: Concert in Memoriam 1925–2025”, as I have mentioned earlier in my report. Another memorable event was “Celebration of Nations: Let All People Sing”, which featured 32 songs from around the world in celebration of harmony, friendship, and the collective spirit that connects people across cultures and nations.

Looking ahead, the Committee intends to further broaden its repertoire through the presentation of traditional Thai music and musical traditions from various parts of the world, while continuing its successful programme of classical chamber and vocal music.

I would also like to take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation to Mrs Eileen Deeley for her unwavering dedication, thoughtful leadership, and tireless efforts in ensuring the continued success of the Society’s music programme over the years. My gratitude also extends to our generous sponsors, performers, volunteers, and members of staff whose collective support and hard work have been instrumental in the successful organisation of each and every musical programme.

The Study Trips Committee, of which I am the Chairperson, continued to organise a wide range of intellectually enriching journeys designed to deepen participants’ understanding of history, culture, heritage, nature, and local communities both within Thailand and abroad. During the past year, the committee organised numerous overseas and domestic study trips, many of which attracted very positive responses from participants.

Among the notable overseas trips organised during the year were programmes to Oman and Zanzibar, Bangladesh, Guizhou in China, and a trip to Southern Laos in Champasak Province. These journeys explored a broad range of themes, including heritage, trade routes, religious and architectural history, minority cultures, and regional cultural exchange. In particular, the “Oman & Zanzibar: Two Shores, One Heritage” programme further benefited from contributions by Mr Hoshil H. Dhanji, an architectural conservation engineer with extensive experience in the preservation of the World Heritage Site of Stone Town in Zanzibar, who shared valuable perspectives on traditional building crafts and climate-resilient heritage management. Participants also had the rare privilege of meeting and dining with Mr Riadh Abdalla Said Al Busaidi, author of “Pictorial History of Zanzibar 1800–1964”. Born and raised in Zanzibar and brought up within the royal household of Beit Serkal during the reign of Sultan Khalifa bin Harub, Mr Al Busaidi possesses a unique personal connection to the island’s royal and cultural history. Through firsthand experiences and family associations with members of the royal household, he offered participants valuable insights into Zanzibar’s past, making the occasion a particularly memorable and enriching component of the programme.

At the same time, the domestic trips continue to provide members with thoughtfully curated opportunities to engage directly with Thailand’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage. Under the leadership of Dr Rungsima Kullapat, the trip to Ranong explored the province’s tin-mining legacy, Baba-Nyonya heritage, Chinese and European influences, mangrove conservation, hot springs, local foodways, and traditional craftsmanship, including visits to the Governor’s Residence, Tian Sue House, the Siam Tin Heritage Centre, Ranong’s mangrove forest, old charcoal kilns, and a hands-on experience in traditional tin panning. At the same time, Mr Graham Jefcoate led members on a trip to Chiang Mai to discover the architectural and social history of the Western presence in northern Siam. The trip saw visits to the former French and British consular compounds, The Prince Royal’s College, McCormick Hospital, the Foreign Cemetery, and McKean Senior Centre. Another highlight worth mentioning was a special visit to Ayutthaya, led by Mrs Somlak Charoenpot, focusing on royal craftsmanship and heritage conservation through visits to the Science Center for Conservation, the Central Storage of National Museums, Chao Sam Phraya National Museum, and the Conservation House of Kwanjit Lertsiri. On this trip, members also had the opportunity to learn about the preservation of national artefacts and traditional conservation techniques.

I have always believed that one of the most meaningful aspects of the Society’s study trips lies in the opportunity they provide for genuine cultural immersion and shared discovery. Beyond simply visiting places of historical and cultural significance, these journeys allow participants to engage more deeply with local communities, traditions, landscapes, and histories in ways that are both intellectually enriching and personally memorable. In this regard, I remain deeply grateful to our dedicated trip leaders and scholars whose knowledge, generosity, and careful planning continue to make these experiences so rewarding for our members.

The Journal of the Siam Society (JSS) continued to make significant progress under the leadership of Dr ML Pattaratorn Chirapravati, Honorary Editor, together with the editorial team and advisory board. During the 2025–2026 period, two issues—Volume 113, Parts 1 and 2—were published and distributed to members. Volume 114, Part 1, has recently been made available online, with printed copies currently being mailed to members.

The December 2025 issue was conceived as a special issue partially dedicated to George Cœdès, former President of The Siam Society, bringing together contributions on his life, scholarship, and enduring legacy. This issue also extended discussions from the Prince Damrong and George Cœdès Symposium, held in Paris in May 2025 and in Bangkok in June 2026, and co-organised by our Associate Editor, Dr Gregory Kourilsky. In this regard, the journal continues to serve not only as a platform for academic publication but also as an important bridge between the Society’s intellectual heritage and contemporary scholarship.

At the same time, the JSS has continued to develop the expanded editorial model initiated in 2024, combining peer-reviewed research articles and research notes with curated sections on epigraphy and manuscripts, archaeology reports, museum spotlights, literary excursions, as well as events and exhibitions. This broader format has allowed the journal to maintain its rigorous academic standards while widening its appeal to both specialist scholars and general readers with an interest in the history, arts, cultures, and heritage of Thailand and the wider region.

The growth of the journal has also been reflected in the marked increase in submissions over the past two years. Accepted articles are now scheduled up to three years in advance, with each issue averaging around 300 pages, or approximately 600 pages annually, excluding supplementary online materials. To manage production costs, the number of colour images in the printed edition has been significantly reduced, while the online version continues to remain fully in colour.

Most importantly, I am delighted to report that the JSS has made a significant advancement in its international standing. According to the latest SCImago Journal Rank, the journal is now ranked Q1 in Cultural Studies and Q2 in Anthropology and Arts and Humanities for 2025, marking an important improvement from its previous Q3 rankings. This achievement reflects the collective efforts of the Honorary Editor, Managing Editor, editorial team, advisory board, contributors, reviewers, and all those who have worked diligently to strengthen the journal’s academic profile. The journal’s inclusion in Scopus since 2019 has also greatly enhanced its visibility and international appeal, and it is hoped that this recognition will continue to attract leading scholars in the field.

Looking ahead, the June 2026 issue will be partly devoted to Gavampati, widely known as “the Fat Monk”, while several guest-edited issues are currently in preparation. Furthermore, our Honorary Editor, Dr ML Pattaratorn Chirapravati, will represent the JSS at a roundtable in Singapore in July 2026 on current challenges and indexing in academic publishing in Southeast Asian studies.

On a personal note, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the editorial team, contributors, reviewers, and readers for their continued support of the JSS. Their dedication has ensured that the journal remains one of the Society’s most important scholarly pillars and continues to uphold its longstanding role in advancing knowledge of Thailand and Southeast Asia.

The Natural History Bulletin of The Siam Society (NHBSS), under the guidance of Dr Prachya Musikasinthorn, Honorary Editor, continued to strengthen its role as an important scholarly publication in the field of natural history and environmental studies. During the past year, the editorial team continued to work towards broadening the journal’s academic reach while also making its contents more accessible and engaging to wider audiences with an interest in Thailand’s ecological and natural heritage.

Building upon the journal’s inclusion in the Scopus indexing database, the committee continued to place emphasis on maintaining high academic standards while exploring new editorial directions for future development. In this regard, discussions were undertaken on the expansion of content formats beyond conventional scientific articles, including the introduction of conservation news, commentary pieces, meeting summaries, scientific reviews, and non-scientific summaries intended to encourage greater public engagement with natural history and environmental issues.

At the same time, the NHBSS editorial team also began to work more closely with the Natural History Section in support of the Society’s broader mission to promote scientific discourse and environmental awareness. Through this collaboration, the journal sought to serve not only as an academic publication but also as a platform connecting researchers, conservationists, naturalists, and members of the public who share a common interest in the stewardship of Thailand’s biodiversity and ecological future.

In parallel to the above, the editorial team is also continuing to explore ways to attract a wider readership, particularly among younger audiences and emerging scholars. This reflects a growing recognition of the importance of communicating scientific knowledge in formats that remain academically rigorous while also approachable to non-scientific readers.

The Communications Committee, under the guidance of Mr Thweep Rittinaphakorn, continued to play an increasingly important role in strengthening the public visibility and academic presence of The Siam Society through strategic communications, digital outreach, and collaborative engagement.

At the same time, the committee continued to enhance the Society’s digital presence through the regular dissemination of news, activities, lectures, study trips, library initiatives, publications, and heritage-related content across the Society’s social media channels. These efforts have contributed significantly towards broadening public awareness of the Society’s mission and activities, while also helping to engage a younger and more diverse group of audiences.

One of the committee’s major undertakings during the year was the continued production and development of several important media projects, including the Society’s corporate presentation video, the commemorative video marking the Society’s 120^th anniversary, and the documentary project relating to the restoration of the Kamthieng House Museum. These initiatives not only serve as valuable archival and communication materials but also reflect the Society’s broader commitment to presenting its work in formats that remain accessible and meaningful to contemporary audiences.

As part of its broader efforts to foster collaboration, the committee also worked closely with various committees, cultural organisations, embassies, academic institutions, and media platforms in support of the Society’s wider institutional objectives. In particular, efforts were made to strengthen relationships with various media organisations and cultural platforms, including “The Cloud”, “Sarakadee Lite”, and “National Geographic Thailand”. Through these collaborations, the Society was able to further broaden public awareness of its programmes, publications, lectures, and heritage-related initiatives among audiences with strong interests in history, arts, culture, and sustainability.

The committee also supported a number of group visits to The Siam Society, welcoming students, academics, and international guests to learn more about the Society’s mission and activities. During the year, the Society hosted visitors from Thammasat University, Silpakorn University, Assumption University of Thailand, and the National University of Singapore. These visits included tours of the Library, Rare Book Collection, Auditorium, and Kamthieng House Museum, offering insights into the Society’s work in heritage preservation, cultural exchange, and public education.

I extend my sincere gratitude to Mr Thweep for his dedicated leadership and guidance throughout the year. His continued support, thoughtful direction, and commitment to strengthening the Society’s public engagement and communications initiatives have been instrumental in advancing the Society’s mission and outreach activities.

The House Administration Committee, under the leadership of Mrs Somlak Charoenpot, continued to play an important role in overseeing the care, improvement, and long-term development of the Society’s premises and administrative foundations.

The core focus of the committee’s work was the Kamthieng House Museum Restoration Project. Although the project experienced delays due to challenges in the production and quality testing of the traditional roof tiles, the committee took the prudent decision to change to a new production company, with the commitment that the new supplier would be able to deliver roof tiles of exceptional quality. At the same time, the committee continued to ensure that all restoration works are carried out with respect to the historical authenticity and traditional craftsmanship of the Kamthieng House Museum.

On a similar front, the committee also made significant progress towards the planning for the improvement of the Society’s landscape and external grounds. This work includes the area in front of the Kamthieng House Museum and the surroundings of the Saeng Aroon House. The intention of the committee is for the landscape improvement works to proceed in harmony with the restoration of the Kamthieng House Museum, so that the Society’s premises may be presented in a manner befitting its historical significance and public role.

At the same time, the committee also commenced important preliminary discussions on the future renovation of the Auditorium. This included consideration of structural integrity, mechanical and electrical systems, architectural restoration, and the possibility of a new building to support the Society’s future needs. While the scale of the project will require careful study, fundraising, and expert guidance, it is clear that the restoration of the Auditorium represents an important investment in the sustainable future of the Society.

The many accomplishments and activities undertaken by The Siam Society over the past year would not have been possible without the generosity, goodwill, and steadfast support of our donors, patrons, and friends, whose contributions continue to sustain and strengthen the work of the Society in so many meaningful ways. In this regard, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the James H.W. Thompson Foundation for its long-standing and unwavering support of the Society’s Lecture Series, which has for many years remained one of our most important platforms for scholarship, intellectual exchange, and public learning.

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 so generously devoted their time, expertise, and energy towards the work of the Society throughout the past year. I am equally grateful to our dedicated volunteers, inspiring speakers, expert study trip leaders, gifted performing artists, scholars, and contributors whose passion and commitment continue to bring life, knowledge, and meaning to the Society’s many programmes and activities.

A very special word of thanks must also go to our devoted members of staff, whose professionalism, patience, and tireless efforts behind the scenes have been instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation and continued success of the Society throughout the year. Their dedication often goes unseen, yet it remains absolutely essential to everything that we do.

Above all, I would like to offer my deepest appreciation to our members. Your continued patronage, encouragement, thoughtful feedback, and enduring belief in the mission of The Siam Society remain the very foundation upon which the Society continues to stand. For more than a century, it is this collective spirit of generosity, friendship, scholarship, and shared cultural stewardship that has enabled the Society not only to endure but to continue evolving meaningfully with each passing generation. It is my sincere hope that, together, we will continue to preserve and carry forward this invaluable legacy for many years to come.