Welcome to HVWSHE

Human Values-Based Water and Sanitation Education Experiences in Thailand

by Dr Art Ong Jumsai

His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand

is a supreme example of Human Values. His entire life is dedicated to the welfare of his subjects. His adherence to Truth and Righteousness makes him a model for the Thai people to follow. His demeanour of peace, his unconditional love and compassion earn him the revered title of “ Father of the Nation”

His Majesty King Bhumibol

is known as the working monarch of the world. He visits remote areas all over the country to listen to the villager’s problems and tries to improve their livelihood through various methods implemented by the Royal Projects.

For His Majesty, the people and their well-being come first.

On March 17, 1986 His Majesty King Bhumibol declared the following in a speech delivered at Chitralada Palace

“ …. we must realize the importance of water. We need it to drink, for daily use and for agriculture. Where there is water, there is life. If there is water, we can survive. If there is no electricity, we can still survive. However, if there is no water but there is electricity, we will perish…”

Based on this concept, a large proportion of the Royal Projects are concerned with water issues.

The development of water sources for cultivation or irrigation is essential for the majority of the country’s population as it enables them to produce crops all the year round. At present, most of the cultivated land nationwide, is outside irrigated areas. His Majesty the King gives priority to all projects concerning the development of water resources as he considers water to be “life” .

His Majesty the King walks on the dyke
at Mae Hong Son province

The projects on the development of water sources under His Majesty’s initiatives can be divided into five categories as follows:

For cultivation and consumption such as reservoirs and dykes.
For preserving water sources and streams.
For electricity generation.
For water drainage from low lying areas.
For relief of flooding.

His Majesty takes a personal interest in every detail in the process of water development.

Many of the water development projects supply water for agriculture as well as for daily consumption. They help rectify the problem of acidicity which is presently an obstacle in crop cultivation.

His Majesty is meticulous in every detail when making plans for water development. The benefit of the Thai people is always foremost in his mind.
“…His Majesty will seek to find more water supply when there is water shortage; to reduce water when there is flooding and to find treatment methods when the water is polluted. His Majesty is aware of the problems in details… ”
October 5, 1995 ~ Prachachart Turakij weekly newspaper

Part of the Pa Sak Jolosid Dam

Royal Rain

The Royal Rain Project began in 1971. His Majesty the King instigated research and development to induce artificial rain to fall in parched areas where crops are being threatened.

Airplanes release chemicals into the clouds to induce rain.

The Royal Rain Project brings water to the people in drought stricken areas

and replenishes the reservoirs.

At 19, he became King. After 50 years of devoting himself to help his people cope with modern challenges and political turmoil, as well as improving the lives of his subjects through His Royal Projects. His Majesty the King has become Thailand’s “Guiding Light”.
He is truly living the Human Values and is an example for the entire world.

Education Policy
of Thailand