Dr Martin Seeger has received a 'Friends of Thailand' award for his outstanding contributions to Thai studies. This prestigious Thai government award recognises individuals, groups of individuals, organisations, and agencies worldwide who have played a significant role in promoting Thailand abroad and contributed to the wider publicity of the destination in the international community. The award was presented by H.E. CHUMPOL SILAPA-ARCHA, Minister of Tourism and Sports, at a reception organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) on 27 September 2010 in Bangkok.

Dr Seeger is highly respected for his academic contributions to creating awareness of Thailand. Having lived in Thailand from 1997 to 2000 in the Buddhist monkhood, he has maintained a deep relationship with the kingdom. Dr Seeger established the Thai studies programme at the Department of East Asian Studies in 2004. The programme, with scholarships supported by the Royal Thai Embassy in London, has taught students in the UK a more profound understanding of Thai language, culture, history and Buddhism.

Related Links