Bangkok: The Por Tek Tung Foundation has disclosed that it spent over 511 million baht on various social welfare projects in 2024.
According to Thai News Agency, the foundation's efforts focused on life-saving, life-preserving, and life-building initiatives, which included assistance for flood victims, the establishment of a medical assistance unit, and support for educational endeavors.
Mr. Wichian Techapaiboon, Chairman of the Por Tek Tung Foundation, alongside other executives, reported that the foundation's 2024 expenditure surpassed the previous year's budget of approximately 501 million baht. The disbursement was categorized into three primary areas: 'Life-saving', which involved over 166 million baht to aid 491,905 individuals affected by floods and other emergencies; 'Life-preserving', with a budget of over 38.4 million baht, focused on providing medical treatment and equipment to people in Bangkok and remote areas; and 'Life-building', which allocated over 278 million baht to more than 10 projects aimed at education, employment, and livelihood, benefiting 956,645 individuals.
Mrs. Sirikul highlighted new initiatives for 2025, including a scholarship program targeting underprivileged students from remote regions to pursue public health education. This initiative aims to address the shortage of healthcare personnel by encouraging students to work in their communities. Additionally, the foundation plans to distribute white canes to the visually impaired.
In response to the recent earthquake that led to the collapse of the Office of the Auditor General's building, the Por Tek Tung Foundation played a significant role in relief efforts. They organized disaster relief teams and coordinated with hospitals in Bangkok to provide necessary aid, including lighting equipment and oxygen tanks, to victims and patients. The foundation also offered support to those trapped in the collapsed building and provided essential supplies to affected personnel and families.
Regarding the Tai Hong Kong White Jade Shrine construction on Charoen Rat Road, the project is over 96.25 percent complete, with the building structure finalized and interior decorations nearing completion. The landscaping within the 80th Anniversary Chalermprakiat Park is over 76 percent complete and is expected to be open to the public within 2025.