Thai King receives UN award for contribution to intellectual property and inventions

King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand has received an award from the United Nations for his commitment to promoting intellectual property rights and his contribution to society as a prolific inventor.

The UN World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) presented King Adulyadej, an acclaimed artist and accomplished inventor holding over 20 patents and 19 trademarks, with its Global Leader Award in a ceremony last Wednesday.

“In sharing the fruits of your creativity in the form of invention and musical and artistic works, Your Majesty has not only demonstrated the power of intellectual property to enrich and enhance the quality of daily life and work but has also encouraged people everywhere to create, respect and protect it,” said WIPO Director General, Francis Gurry.

Many of the King’s inventions, which include a water aerator and artificial rainmaking technology, have generated concrete and practical benefits for rural communities in Thailand.

The King was honoured at the Klai Kangwon Palace in Hua Hin, Thailand, with members of the Privy Council, ministers, senior officials and a high level WIPO delegation in attendance.