The 23rd AIBD General Conference (GC) will surely go down in history as one of the best to date. Credit goes to PRD/NBT Thailand’s first lady Director-General, Ms. Sudruetai Lertkasem, who went the extra mile as a gracious host. The GC was held in Phuket, one of the most idyllic and vibrant islands in Thailand. Beyond Kata, the venue hotel, mesmerised delegates with its picturesque view of the ocean.

With such a setting, success was inevitable. The event brought together at least 20 member countries and more than 100 delegates, including exhibitors at the Media Showcase held alongside the General Conference. The first day featured the Strategic Plan Team meeting, where members deliberated on AIBD’s future plans and election guidelines. This was followed by the Executive Board meeting, which reviewed AIBD’s activities and future roadmap.

On the second day, the official opening of the General Conference took place, with the President chairing the 23rd meeting and 50th annual gathering under the theme “Media for People, Peace and Prosperity.” The theme was indeed apt, reflecting on how media can play a proactive role in times of global challenges – requiring both careful strategy and a strong understanding of media’s role and responsibility.

The conference concluded with elections for new office bearers: Thailand assumed the Presidency, Maldives was elected Vice President, India became Chair of the EXBO, and Nepal took up the role of Vice Chair. The newly formed Election Committee, supported by guidelines prepared by the Legal Team, ensured smooth and transparent elections. This year’s process also required nominees to present their plans and commitments towards strengthening AIBD – an excellent, outcome-oriented step forward.

Our sincere thanks go to the new office bearers and to Thailand, the host of the 23rd General Conference, for an outstanding job.

With renewed enthusiasm and shared purpose, we now embark on a new journey to advance AIBD’s mission in creating a vibrant and resilient media landscape for the future.