On 16 June 2023, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted the Meeting of Sub-Committee on Public Relations of the Prince Mahidol Award Foundation (PMAF) 1/2023, chaired by Mrs. Kanchana Patarachoke, Director-General of the Department of Information/Spokesperson. Also in attendance were representatives from various relevant agencies, including PMAF, Public Relations Department, Medical Association of Thailand, Mahidol University, Ministry of Public Health, Bureau of the Royal Household, NECTEC, MCOT Public Company Limited, Royal Thai Army Radio and Television, Channel 7HD, National Broadcasting Services of Thailand, and Thai Airways International Public Company Limited.

The Meeting adopted the report on the Sub-Committee on Public Relations of the PMAF Meeting 2/2022 and reviewed the public relations policy regarding the 2022 PMA and PMA Youth Programme. The participants also exchanged views on the outreach strategy for the upcoming 2023 PMA Awards Presentation Ceremony. As of 31 May 2023, there were over 90 nominations from over 30 countries, and the number was considered highest in the past few years. In this connection, the increase in PMA applications reflected the increasing recognition of the PMA Awards.

In addition, the Meeting also discussed ways to expand connections, especially with the new media, so as to raise awareness and provide the public with essential knowledge on Medicine and Public Health. The aim was not only to promote good health and well-being but also to inspire the public and encourage more youth participation in the advancement of medicine and public health for the benefits of the humankind.

PMAF was established by the royal permission of the Late HM King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great in accordance with the proposal of Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, to commemorate the Centenary Birthday Anniversary of HRH Prince Mahidol of Songkla on 1 January 1992. PMAF aims to honor HRH Prince Mahidol of Songkla and recognize his exemplary contribution as “The Father of Modern Medicine and Public Health of Thailand.”