On 17 November 2023, Mrs. Arunee Hiam, the Deputy Director-General of Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) attended the first day of the celebratory event of International Volunteer Day 2023 at the Asia-Pacific Development Center on Disability (APCD). Hosted by the UN Volunteers, the activity was under the theme “Ripple of Kindness” and aimed to commemorate impacts of volunteerism in achieving Sustainable Development Goals, ignite new volunteer initiatives as well as strengthen networking capacity between different sectors.

The Deputy Director-General participated in baking activity for the “Bridge of Merit” campaign, directing to help not only those who were affected by the COVID-19 pandemic but also other vulnerable groups. The baked goods were distributed to the homeless, hospitals, schools and non-profit foundations. Moreover, the Deputy Director-General gave an interview, which she addressed the significance of volunteers in accelerating Sustainable Development Goals. Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) has undertaken the leadership role in the matter through Friends from Thailand (FFT) initiative by dispatching Thai volunteers to contribute development work in Thailand’s partner countries. In addition, she emphasized on how this event helped foster inclusive development.