The Order of Malta Thailand participated in the 13th Asia-Pacific Conference of the Order of Malta, held in Singapore from Nov. 5 to 7, 2025, where leaders from across the region met to strengthen cooperation and advance humanitarian priorities.
The Thai delegation was led by Chartsiri Sophonpanich, President of the Order of Malta Thailand and President of Bangkok Bank, accompanied by Dr. Virachai Techavijit, Vice President; Dr. Anjarat Suthat na Ayuthya, Acting Hospitaller; and five other delegates, including Chaplain Fr. Carlo Velardo.
Speaking to LiCAS News on November 21, Dr. Virachai said the event provided Thailand with renewed direction and stronger tools for collaboration.
“The conference concluded on a meaningful and positive note. Delegates addressed the challenges of upholding the Catholic faith and serving the sick, the poor, and those in need,” he said. “It opened expanded opportunities for humanitarian cooperation across the Asia-Pacific region.”
One of the most significant outcomes was the signing of a joint declaration establishing the Asia-Pacific branch of Malteser International, the Order’s global humanitarian agency.
Thailand joined Australia, South Korea, the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Singapore in endorsing the initiative, which is expected to strengthen regional coordination in disaster response, healthcare, and poverty reduction.
Regional and global priorities
The conference brought together national presidents, delegation heads, and ambassadors for sessions on national activities, fundraising, communications, and spiritual formation—areas where Thailand’s participation continues to grow.
In his opening remarks, Grand Chancellor Riccardo Paternò di Montecupo described the Order’s commitment to vulnerable regions such as Africa, Lebanon, Palestine, Timor-Leste, and crisis zones, including Gaza and Ukraine.
“Everywhere we are present in the world, we are close to those who suffer,” he said, highlighting the support provided through the Order of Malta Donors for Projects (OMDP).
Grand Hospitaller Josef Blotz praised the Order’s healthcare work, particularly the clinics in Dili, Timor-Leste, which serve thousands each year. He noted ongoing proposals through Malteser International Asia Pacific to expand services to remote communities.
The Order’s Prelate, Monsignor Luis Manuel Cuna Ramos, reminded participants of the spiritual foundation of the Order’s mission.
“We are called to be God’s help to our Lords the poor and the sick,” he said. “Our vocation brings God’s compassion and mercy to those most in need.”
Malta Thailand marks World Day of the Poor
Shortly after the delegation returned to Bangkok, the Order of Malta Thailand led the national observance of the World Day of the Poor, organizing the sixth annual “Day of the Sick and the Poor” on November 15, 2025, at St. Mark’s Church.
The event, guided by the Order’s mission Tuitio Fidei et Obsequium Pauperum, mobilized members, Catholic medical professionals, the Saint Louis Hospital ambulance team, and parish volunteers.
Participants provided Mass and the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick, medical screening, haircuts, nail trimming, home visits, meals, and distributed 200 sets of essential supplies.
Donations also included toys, snacks, footballs, dozens of pairs of shoes, and an adjustable wheelchair.
Spiritual care was led by Fr. Carlo Velardo, together with the pastor and other priests who offered prayers and encouragement to the sick and the poor, reminding them that they are held in the love of God and the care of the community.
