President's Message For October 2025

As we enter the month of October, a time when Rotary International continues to inspire service and fellowship around the world, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the remarkable journey that has brought Rotary to where it is today in Thailand.

Two decades after Rotary was founded in Chicago, USA, on February 23, 1905, the movement began its expansion into Southeast Asia. The first Rotary club in the region was established in Kuala Lumpur in 1928 by Rotarian James W. Davidson, a member of the Rotary Club of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Appointed by Rotary International as a General Commissioner, Davidson traveled extensively throughout the region, guiding the establishment of new clubs and founding seven Rotary clubs in the Federated Malay States within just two years.

Davidson’s journey eventually brought him to Siam, modern-day Thailand. He was granted a royal audience with His Royal Highness Prince Kamphaeng Phet Akkarayothin, to whom he presented the history and principles of Rotary and respectfully requested royal approval to establish a club in Bangkok. His Royal Highness embraced the ideals of Rotary, leading to the creation of the Rotary Club of Bangkok on September 17, 1930. The club began with 69 charter members representing 15 nationalities, reflecting the spirit of international fellowship that remains central to Rotary today.

The inaugural meeting was held at Phaya Thai Palace, now the site of the Royal Thai Army’s Phramongkutklao Hospital on Ratchawithi Road. In a historic moment, His Royal Highness served as the charter president, and His Majesty King Prajadhipok (King Rama VII) personally attended the founding meeting — a gracious act of royal patronage that continues to inspire Rotarians to this day.

As we celebrate the enduring legacy of Rotary in Thailand, let us remember the vision, dedication, and collaboration that have shaped our organization. From humble beginnings in a palace meeting room to the vibrant community of service we are today, Rotary continues to unite people across cultures and generations, working together to make a meaningful difference.

In service and friendship,

Owen Hodgson

President, Chiang Mai International Rotary Club