And Vichai Raksriaksorn, chairman of the King Power Foundation, which sponsors the production of the wristbands, has claimed it was because of him that the prince wore the band.

During a recent interview, Vichai revealed his devotion to His Majesty and said he was ready to flex his muscles to prove it.

His foundation was the first to initiate the wristband for the King project, with massive success. A huge number of people have bought them, knowing all the money collected would go to projects decided on by the King. Even former Miss Universe Natalie Glebova wore one while handing over the crown to her successor in Los Angeles.

Vichai claims the foundation has so far raised Bt800 million and expects to raise a further Bt200 million from the sale of commemorative wristwatches, which are to be manufactured by four companies, including Switzerland's Patek Philippe.

And now, through the foundation, Vichai is urging students across the nation to join a competition to submit blessings for the King, with the winners promised scholarships.

While he deserves a royal decoration for his services, Vichai has declined the offer, saying it is better to work behind the scenes, rather than be a public figure who could be too distracted by public interest to carry out his duties.

His view that decorations and honours are unimportant - as long as you are doing something with your heart and are happy with the results - should make certain other people feel ashamed.

Bhutan speaks

Before the arrival of its Prince Wangchuk, most Thais could not have cared less about Bhutan. But the more we know about the country, the more it interests us.

The latest news came from a website showing that there are increasing numbers of Bhutanese studying outside the country.

This has encouraged Webster University in Thailand to establish formal links with the Education Ministry in the capital Thimphu to attract Bhutanese students.

Director of admissions Stephen Beaver gave us another interesting piece of information: "Bhutanese students have a good command of English," he said.

It puzzles me how a country nestled high in the mountains achieves this. Maybe because there are as many tourists as citizens, there are lots of chances to practise speaking English.

But what about Thailand, with its 13 million foreign tourists? Why does nobody ever say that Thais have a good command of English?

achara_d@nationgroup.com.