Panipak Wongpattanakit, a two-time Olympic taekwondo champion, and Pleumjit Thinkaow, a revered volleyball star, were recently honored at the prestigious 5th Thailand Moral Awards ceremony in 2024. The event, held at the National Art Gallery, was a tribute to their exceptional contributions to sportsmanship and morality that have inspired countless individuals within Thai society.
Air Chief Marshal Chalit Pukbhasuk, alongside Privy Councilor Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul and Assoc Prof Dr Suriyadeo Tripathi from the Center for Morality Promotion, presented the awards to these esteemed athletes. Both Panipak and Pleumjit had retired from their respective national teams but continue to serve as role models for aspiring athletes and youth across the nation.
Panipak’s remarkable achievements include clinching gold medals in taekwondo at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympic Games, along with a bronze medal in Rio 2016. Her dedication to her sport and unwavering commitment to excellence have solidified her status as one of Thailand’s most celebrated sporting figures.
Pleumjit has left an indelible mark on Thai volleyball with her stellar performances as a long-serving national player. A two-time Asian champion, multiple SEA Games gold medalist, and recipient of silver and bronze medals at the Asian Games, Pleumjit’s illustrious career is a testament to her talent and hard work on the court.
The recognition extended beyond just Panipak and Pleumjit; wheelchair fencer Saysunee Jana and boxer Janjaem Suwannapeng were also named Moral Ambassadors for their extraordinary feats in their respective disciplines. Saysunee’s triumphant display at the 2024 Paralympic Games with three gold medals showcased her resilience and skill as an athlete. In parallel, Janjaem’s bronze medal win at the Paris 2024 Games underscored his tenacity and dedication to boxing.
The Thailand Moral Awards not only celebrate athletic prowess but also emphasize values such as perseverance, integrity, and moral character that transcend sports arenas. These honours serve as reminders of how sports can be a powerful force for inspiring positive change within communities by setting examples of excellence both on and off the field.
In essence, events like these not only recognize outstanding athletes but also reinforce the importance of ethics in sports—a crucial aspect often overshadowed by mere victories. As Air Chief Marshal Chalit Pukbhasuk aptly stated during the ceremony:
“These awards are not just about winning medals; they are about embodying virtues that uplift society.”
Such acknowledgments highlight that true champions are defined not only by their athletic achievements but also by their moral compasses that guide them towards greatness in all aspects of life.
