H.M. King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden presents the
flag of honour to the scouts at Vajiravudh Scout Camp in Sri-Racha.
Thailand and the World Scout Foundation had the great honour of the presence of
His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden at the 37th Reception and
Presentation ceremony of The Baden-Powell World Fellowship Awards.
The Baden-Powell World Fellowship recognises individuals for their contributions
to the World Scouting Foundation. Today, there are nearly 1,000 fellows from 60
countries.
Fellowship receptions are held periodically around the world to inform members
about scouting and to present the insignia to new members. Awards are also given
to those who contribute funds to the World Scout Foundation. Most presentations
are made by the Honorary President of the World Scout Foundation, His Majesty
the King of Sweden.
His Majesty addresses the guests at the Baden-Powell
World Fellowship reception at the Royal Cliff Beach Resort
Sweden is a country which is known for close attention to her people and their
development. As one poet said, “Ah, beautiful Scandinavia, land of peace and
sane behavia.”
Sweden is a model of the northern European temperate climate. With stunning
mountains, alpine vistas and a sapphire sea it is many people’s dream of Utopia.
The Swedes are known for their high-precision technology, yet at the same time
are proud to keep their old traditions alive.
Sweden is also known in the field of the arts. She has produced world class
singers such as Birgit Nilsson, and Nicolai Gedda. Wilhelm Stenhammar, a
Beethoven-calibre composer, is just being rediscovered after years of neglect.
Sutham and Orawan Phanthusak are granted a royal
audience with His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden at the Woodlands
Resort.
Sweden is an environmentally conscious nation and so it is not unusual for
Scouting, which emphasises harmony with nature, to be a major movement there.
As in Thailand, the Chief Scout is the Head of State, King Carl XVI Gustaf. His
Majesty has always been an environmentalist and has been a scout since he was
young. His Majesty’s visit, to present the Baden-Powell Awards, was a great
honour for Thailand.
Upon arriving, His Majesty visited the Vajiravudh Scout Camp in Sri-Racha. After
the inspection, His Majesty and Mr. Sutham Phantusak had high tea and a relaxing
conversation at the Woodlands Resort.
The Phanthusak family presents a gift inscribed with
the Royal Insignia to His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf.
Next on Majesty’s itinerary was the Reception and Presentation Ceremony held at
the Royal Cliff Grand. Philanthropists and supporters of youth in Thailand and
the scouts were there to give the King a true Thai welcome.
The Grand Ballroom was arranged to give a feeling of open airy space. It was
obvious that people had been doing their homework and knew that the
Scandinavians are fond of open-air outdoor environments.
There was pleasant and tasteful music performed by a quartet and vocalists. The
service was truly Thai and the staff provided impeccable service.
The King was then respectfully petitioned to present the awards. His Majesty
presented the awards in His capacity as Honorary President of the World Scout
Foundation.
After the presentations, the King made a speech and thanked all supporters of
scouting. He then departed with his retinue.
Sutham and Orawan Phanthusak greet Kovit Vorapipata,
Chairman of the Scout move-ment in Thailand (centre), Prasert Sermsook (right)
and Komolwan Sai-ngarm (left)
Children from the Sinsamut School in Sattahip honour
His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf.
Dr. Kowit Vorapipatana Vice Chairman of the
Organising Committee gives the opening address
to His Majesty at the 37th Baden-Powell reception.
Jan Olav Aamlid is presented with the Baden-Powell
Fellowship by His Majesty King Carl XVI Gustaf.
Joachim Caula, Chancelier Chaine des Rotisseurs
Baillage de Pattaya presents an honourable medal
to His Majesty.
His Majesty confers with Anattachai Rattakul
