The tribute is scheduled for May 26, but the venue is yet to be finalised.

Deputy Prime Minister Surakiart Sathirathai unveiled plans for the tribute yesterday. He said it could be broadcast from the Foreign Ministry, or Impact Arena at Muang Thong Thani.

Surakiart said a working panel was discussing with the Office of His Majesty's Principal Private Secretary the possibility of inviting HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn to chair the show. She would also be asked to make the opening address.

Surakiart said United Nations secretary-general Kofi Annan would deliver an address explaining why His Majesty was granted the United Nations Development Programme's inaugural Human Development Lifetime Award this year. "The seminar will let the world know of His Majesty's great contribution to Thailand," Surakiart said.

The country is preparing for a major celebration next month of the 60th anniversary of His Majesty's accession to the throne. The King is the world's longest-reigning monarch.

Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam said the government was planning to compile an encyclopaedia detailing His Majesty's works. He said the encyclopaedia should be completed in time for His Majesty's 80th birthday next year.

Piyanart Srivalo

The Nation