King of Thailand receives WIPO's first Global Leaders Award

Manufacturing News, Source : The Manufacturer US
Zone : Design and innovation
Published : 29 Jan 2007 20:11

The King of Thailand, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, will be the recipient of the World Intellectual Property Organization’s (WIPO) Global Leaders Award, in recognition of his remarkable contribution to intellectual property both as an inventor and as an active proponent of intellectual property as a tool for development.

The WIPO Global Leaders Award is the Organization’s most prestigious recognition of outstanding contributions by world leaders to the cause of intellectual property to promote development.

As an inventor and an artist, His Majesty is a strong advocate of intellectual property, owning over 20 patents and 19 trademarks. Many of his inventions have generated concrete benefits for Thai communities, having been put to practical use in a range of rural development projects in Thailand. His Majesty was granted his first patent in 1993 for a system to resolve water shortage problem in the dry season, making him the first member of the royal family to obtain a patent. His Majesty is also a recognized and prolific artist, having created over 1,000 works, including paintings, photos, musical and literary works such as songs and novels.

The WIPO Global Leaders Award, which comprises a citation and a medal honoring the recipient, recognizes leadership and personal engagement in promoting intellectual property at the national, regional and international levels. It also rewards exceptional personal creative and innovative activities and use of the intellectual property system to protect these works.

The importance of intellectual property as a policy tool to promote development has been a key feature of Dr. Idris’ vision as Director General of the Organization since 1997. Dr. Idris has campaigned extensively to enhance awareness and understanding among global leaders of intellectual property and its strategic importance in promoting economic, social and cultural development. The new WIPO Global Leaders Award would contribute to the realization of the Director General’s vision.

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