His Majesty the King of Bhutan Confers the Druk Thuksey Medal on MQDC and T&B Media Global Executives
21 February 2026, Gelephu, Kingdom of Bhutan – On the auspicious occasion of the 46th Birth Anniversary of His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, this year’s official celebrations were graciously held in Gelephu, the site of the transformative Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) project. GMC is envisioned as a pioneering model city that harmoniously integrates spirituality, nature, and technology into a new form of special economic zone designed to foster prosperity alongside holistic well-being.
During the ceremony, His Majesty delivered a Royal Address emphasizing the significance of the GMC project to the future of the Bhutanese. In his remarks, His Majesty expressed his appreciation and commendation to Dr. Nathawat Ahriyavraromp, Founder and CEO of T&B Media Global (Thailand) and Mrs. Thippaporn Ahriyavraromp, Founder and Co-Chairman of MQDC Executive Committee, for their steadfast belief in His Majesty’s vision and their unwavering support of the GMC project since its inception.
His Majesty subsequently invited Dr. Nathawat and Mrs. Thippaporn onto the stage and graciously conferred upon them the Druk Thuksey Medal (Heart Son of Bhutan), one of the distinguished Royal Decorations of the Kingdom of Bhutan bestowed by the King. The medal signifies one who is “deeply beloved of the Thunder Dragon,” the national symbol of Bhutan. The conferment took place before more than 20,000 Bhutanese citizens gathered as witnesses to the historic occasion.
The Druk Thuksey Medal is awarded in recognition of individuals who have rendered exceptional service and contributions to the nation. This marked the first time the decoration has been conferred upon two individuals simultaneously, drawing significant attention from Bhutanese media.
Later that evening, a Tashi Khadar ceremony was hosted in their honor by Tshering Tobgay, Prime Minister of Bhutan, together with Dr. Lotay Tshering, GMC Governorr, and senior government officials, to extend their congratulations to Dr. Nathawat and Mrs. Thippaporn on this distinguished recognition.
Dr. Nathawat said, “It is an immeasurable royal grace to have been given the opportunity to be part of the Gelephu Mindfulness City project, and I will cherish this distinguished moment forever.”
Mrs. Thippaporn added, “Receiving this royal decoration is an immeasurable royal grace and a profound honor. This decoration does not belong to me alone, but to all of us. I would like everyone to share in the pride of this distinguished recognition.”
