Pathum thani: The Association of Parents of Intellectually Disabled Persons of Thailand, in partnership with the Department of Empowerment and Development of the Quality of Life for Persons with Disabilities (DEP), hosted the 'Sports Day for Building Relationships Among the Network of Intellectually Disabled Persons of Thailand' from August 10-12, 2026. The event took place at the Asia Airport Hotel and Dream World Amusement Park in Pathum Thani Province and was funded by the Fund for the Promotion and Development of the Quality of Life for Persons with Disabilities.
According to Thai News Agency, the event brought together over 1,000 participants, including individuals with intellectual disabilities, their families, caregivers, and representatives from various partner networks nationwide. Ms. Benjamas Kaenmuang, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Empowerment and Development of Quality of Life for People with Disabilities, led the opening ceremony on August 11, 2026.
The event emphasized active participation over competition, aiming to harness sports and recreational activities to enhance both physical and mental well-being. It offered a platform for individuals with intellectual disabilities to showcase their potential, learn teamwork, and foster unity without focusing solely on winning.
Ms. Sonthaya Bunyaphoosit, Director-General of the Department, tasked Ms. Benjamas with presiding over the ceremony. The initiative was organized by the Association of Parents of Persons with Intellectual Disabilities of Thailand, with backing from the Fund for the Promotion and Development of Quality of Life for Persons with Disabilities.
The event's goal was to promote health and happiness, allowing participants to express their abilities, learn about teamwork and sportsmanship, and build unity and mutual assistance.
Ms. Benjamas expressed her pleasure in leading the opening ceremony, highlighting the importance of sports as a tool for health promotion and inclusion. The gathering provided a significant opportunity for building relationships, sharing experiences, and strengthening collaboration within the network, contributing to the sustainable development of quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities.
"Sports aren't really just about winning or losing, but about taking action, helping each other, and learning that we can all be a full part of society," Ms. Benjamas remarked.
The Deputy Director-General believes the event will foster happiness, confidence, and pride among participants, strengthening cooperation among families, caregivers, and networks, ultimately promoting dignity and equality for people with intellectual disabilities.
Mr. Suchart Ovathawannasakun, President of the Association, noted that the project aimed to provide a shared space for intellectually disabled persons to engage in activities together through sports and recreation.
The participation of over 1,000 members from various regions demonstrates the strength and cooperation within the association's network, united in the goal of improving quality of life for people with intellectual disabilities.
The association views "sports" as an opportunity for everyone to exercise, showcase abilities, and build friendships, rather than just a competition.
Mr. Suchart emphasized the importance of smiles, self-expression, and unity over competition, as these elements help people with intellectual disabilities gain confidence and recognize their societal value.
"I sincerely hope that this event will be a time when everyone gains better health, new friends, and wonderful memories. Most importantly, it shows us that no matter how different we may be, everyone has potential, value, and can contribute to building a better society together."
The "Sports Day for Building Relationships Among the Intellectually Disabled Network of Thailand" served as a platform for uniting over 1,000 individuals, fostering friendships, confidence, and societal acceptance, while showcasing the potential and value of people with intellectual disabilities. The event highlighted the strength of the network in advocating for a society of equality and inclusion.