The award was presented during the ‘To be Number One Member Gathering 2025’, held at the IMPACT Forum Convention Center in Muang Thong Thani, outside Bangkok, on Tuesday evening (July 15).
The event was graciously presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, who has long championed the ‘To be Number One’ initiative.
Top officials from multiple ministries supporting the project were in attendance, including representatives from the Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Social Development and Human Security, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration and the Office of the Narcotics Control Board/
Governor Sophon joined the audience to receive his award in recognition of his effective efforts to drive the ‘To be Number One’ programme across Phuket Province, said an official report of the event.
The initiative, which promotes youth development as a means to prevent drug abuse, has been active for over two decades under the royal patronage of Princess Ubolratana.
In a show of solidarity and support for young people, Governor Sophon later joined performers on stage during a special concert segment of the gathering. His participation was seen as a symbolic gesture reflecting the role of provincial leaders as advocates for youth empowerment and drug prevention.
The evening also saw the presentation of four ‘Diamond Role Model’ awards to agencies with outstanding national-level performance, further highlighting the impact of the programme in providing positive alternatives and guidance for young people across Thailand.
The ‘To be Number One’ project, founded in 2002, continues to serve as a key national strategy in tackling drug abuse through youth engagement, life skills development and the creation of safe, drug-free communities.