Our Beloved King in His Mission

The Third Pillar — Pelsung: Guardians of Prosperity in Bhutan

Image: HM's Official FB Page

Image: HM's Official FB Page

Image: HM's Official FB Page

Image: HM's Official FB Page

October 8, 2025: 

As the third group of volunteers begin their work in Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) His Majesty The King announced the launch of Pelsung.

Pelsung, meaning Guardians of Prosperity, is a new national initiative to engage Bhutanese youth in developing creative and practical solutions for the GMC.

His Majesty announced Pelsung as the third pillar of nation-building alongside Desuung and Gyalsung, instituted to help build strong foundations for the country’s future.

“For a small population, every single person matters, and these programmes are intended to empower our people, to build harmony and the capacity to work together. As His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo said in the 1974 Coronation Address, our collective efforts will have far greater impact than the concerted efforts of a few,” His Majesty said.

His Majesty said that the Gelephu Mindfulness City represents the aspirations of the nation taking shape, and that the sacred responsibility to protect Bhutan’s unity, harmony, and unique identity for all time falls on the youth.

“Everything we are doing today is for our youth – so that they will be better versions of us, better prepared, smarter, and more hard-working. It falls on us to build that future, and on them to protect it and take it to greater heights,” His Majesty said. “That is the reason Pelsung has been created. I invite larger and larger numbers — the brightest and strongest amongst us — to join. We begin with 300–400 Pelsups, but expect to have thousands in the coming years. While today we bring in experts to help build the GMC, it is imperative that Bhutanese are able to take over the responsibility and become its custodians.”

“My father entrusted the responsibility of Kingship to me when I was only 26, with enormous confidence and even greater expectations. I would like to learn from past precedent, and His Majesty’s immense wisdom, and recognize the potential of our youth. We certainly value experience, age, and education. But we must also rely on our youth to take the nation forward,” His Majesty said. “My father took a leap of faith in me, and I have always endeavoured to not disappoint him, my people, and above all, our choechang sungma.”

“It is not how you fit into a role that matters, but how you adapt — how quickly you can learn, absorb information, exercise good judgement, and reinvent yourself,” His Majesty said. “Success requires adaptability, humility, resilience, and a constant appetite to learn. Every moment of your life, you are growing, becoming stronger, and your conviction solidifies. Only when you know what is worth fighting for do you learn how to succeed.”

His Majesty added that the journey ahead will not be easy. “There will be heartaches and disappointments. If it were easy, every country in the world would be better off and do exactly what we are doing. We have to be resilient in the face of challenges to do what others cannot.”

The first cohort of Pelsung participants includes about 300 youth, selected from thousands of applicants from within and outside Bhutan. They represent a diverse mix of civil servants, private employees, students, and recent university graduates.

The programme includes a Youth Integration Training, developed with the support of Desuung, to build teamwork and community spirit. Participants will attend GMC Talks with experts from the Gelephu Mindfulness City Authority, and later form groups to develop ideas under four themes — Social and Cultural, Business and Commercial, Governance and Planning, and Architecture and Urban Design.

His Majesty expressed deep appreciation for the people’s overwhelming interest in joining the volunteer work, saying that people from across the country had shown remarkable enthusiasm to be part of the national effort.

“This is the true spirit of Bhutan, our unity, and the manner in which Bhutanese come together with the noble intent of benefiting all sentient beings,” His Majesty said. “That is what makes Bhutan special, and sets us apart.”

His Majesty especially acknowledged the presence of Lopen Basokarp, the 98-year-old former Yangbi Lopen and Druk Thugsey recipient, who had requested to come to Gelephu to take part in the voluntary work.

The ceremony was attended by Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen, Members of the Royal Family, international guests, officials, and the public of Gelephu.

His Majesty’s Address to the Nation on National Day 2024

His Majesty Addressing the Nation on 117th National Day
at Changlimithang, Thimphu

National Day  is a sacred occasion for Bhutanese – a time to pay tribute to our visionary Monarchs and forefathers for their sacrifices in building this precious nation, and to collectively reaffirm our unwavering commitment to strengthening the unity, peace, security, and sovereignty of our country.

This past year, our country was blessed with peace and stability, free from the turmoil seen in many parts of the world. The elections for both houses of Parliament were conducted smoothly, and the new government has successfully launched the 13th Five-Year-Plan. I extend my Tashi Delek to the Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and all Members of Parliament as they take on these important responsibilities.

Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting Australia, where we were warmly welcomed by thousands of Bhutanese in Sydney, Canberra, and Perth. It was a bittersweet experience, as on one hand, it was heartening to see how our people, after many years away from home, are thriving, working hard to support themselves and their families, and upholding our traditions and values with pride. On the other hand, their deeply emotional welcome showed how much they miss their home and loved ones, and the difficulty of being apart. This is why I am determined to create the conditions that will allow Bhutanese all over the world to return home and enjoy the same opportunities they have sought abroad.

I visited India several times this year. During these visits, I always had fruitful interactions with the Indian leadership. I thank Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for the continued support and friendship extended to Bhutan, including full support for the GMC. 

I am immensely proud of our Desuups and Gyalsups. The Desuung fraternity, which comprises of our youth, has grown to over 50,000 members.

Trained in various skilling programmes, they are exemplary and smart volunteers, who have been tirelessly serving our people across all dzongkhags and gewogs, making a significant impact on communities throughout the country. The launch of Gyalsung—National Service—marks a significant milestone in our nation’s history. Thousands of Bhutanese youth have answered the call of duty with great enthusiasm, embracing their training with dedication and commitment. The pride with which Gyalsups and their families celebrated their graduation has already established a wonderful tradition. National Service is a rite of passage, a social equalizer, and a common experience that builds character, grit, discipline, and coordination. With this sense of purpose, unity, and intelligence, we can achieve all our aspirations. Gyalsung will lay a strong foundation for our national unity, peace, and security, helping build a just and harmonious society. I thank the armed forces for their invaluable support in making this vision a reality. I am extremely proud of National Service and the legacy it is creating.

Before starting any important national endeavour, I always ask a few key questions: Is this the right time? Is there opportunity? Have we planned it well? And most importantly, can our people shoulder this responsibility? 

Over the years, our duties, ambitions, and responsibilities have grown larger and more complex. This is a testament to how much stronger we have become, especially with our capable and determined youth. Every accomplishment has been possible because of the unwavering support of our people, including the youth, who embody intelligence, grit, and fearless resolve. 

Our greatest strength lies in the loyalty and unity of our people, which gives me the confidence to pursue ambitious endeavours like the GMC.

This is why, on last year’s National Day, I announced the establishment of GMC—a bold vision that can only be realised with the people’s commitment. When the announcement was made, the overwhelming response from the people at Changlimithang deeply impressed the international guests present, a sentiment that continues to resonate to this day.

The establishment of a Special Administrative Region (SAR) under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems” is a bold and groundbreaking initiative, admired globally. While the concept is sound and carefully thought out, the risk lies in inadequate execution, which could undermine its success. To prevent this, I have personally taken the lead and brought together a team of the most talented and capable individuals to ensure it is implemented effectively.

In all our endeavours, our primary goal is to ensure that the blessings and legacy of Guru Rinpoche and Zhabdrung Nawang Namgyal, which have shaped our precious and blessed nation, endure for thousands of years. The blessing lies in our people continuing to enjoy prosperous, happy, and secure lives for generations to come. Similarly, the goal of the GMC is aligned with this vision: to pave the way for a brighter future, particularly for our youth.

I feel a deep sense of urgency when I see that children born when I became King 18 years ago are already young adults undergoing Gyalsung training. Those who were 10 in 2006 are now 28, with families and responsibilities. It is distressing to encounter youth still struggling to make ends meet on salaries of just Nu 8,000, a situation that hasn’t changed for many. I cannot, in good conscience, ask our youth—Desuups, Gyalsups, and students—to carry on without a clear promise of a brighter future. We must urgently create meaningful job opportunities, with clear learning pathways and attractive career prospects, to help our youth lead prosperous lives. They must be ready to embrace the opportunities offered by the rapid advancements in AI, quantum technology, robotics, and supercomputing.

We are blessed that the launch of the GMC fortuitously coincides with the dawn of the Asian century. The world is watching as South Asia grows, representing vast economic prospects for the two billion people who are young and ambitious. The GMC is strategically positioned as a business and financial centre, economic and technology hub, aviation and transit gateway for the region, just as Singapore is for Southeast Asia and Dubai for the Middle East. 

Drawing on Bhutan’s unique values as a Buddhist nation, I have asked our Buddhist community—the dratshang, lams, and trulkus—to help establish the spiritual identity of the GMC through monasteries, institutions, and their communities. I am deeply appreciative of their efforts, and this year, they are set to begin more than 21 projects, supported by the funding and dedication of their patrons and devotees. This is a promising step towards creating a strong spiritual foundation for the GMC.

For potential investors, the question will inevitably be: What does the GMC have to offer? 

The GMC will provide world-class infrastructure, including residential homes, offices, recreational facilities, educational institutions, healthcare services, and hospitality services—basic features found in many advanced urban centres. But the true focus will be on the “software”—the essential, often more difficult, but critical components that will set us apart. This means a robust governance framework, with business-friendly laws, enabling regulations, and supportive institutions. We will also ensure access to top-tier professional and financial services, creating an environment that attracts global business.

Our goal is to establish a business hub that not only competes with but surpasses existing centres like Singapore, London, Dubai, New York, and Tokyo. To achieve this, I am committed to working tirelessly and engaging the best Bhutanese and global talent to help build the GMC’s success. Guided by core Bhutanese values like loyalty and integrity, we will create a city that is free of corruption, drugs, and crime—one that offers both the infrastructure and the governance needed for long-term prosperity.

I have met many people who are increasingly concerned about the state of the world and are seeking new ideas, better options, and inspiring examples. The world is looking for new ideas, better options, good examples, a sense of direction. Everyone is looking for hope. Often, some of the largest problems can be solved with a single, good idea- and sometimes that idea can come from a small country. Bhutan, as a small nation, has a unique opportunity to shine by achieving something extraordinary. The success of the GMC will not only elevate our global standing but also enable us to fully realise the potential of Gross National Happiness (GNH) in the 21st century for the benefit of our nation and its people. This is why we must succeed: to take Bhutan’s philosophy of GNH—our inherited legacy—into the future and demonstrate that small countries can lead the way.

The Diamond Strategy

An important thing for the people to understand is that we are pursuing “One Country, Two Systems” by establishing the GMC as a Special Administrative Region. However, we do not intend to maintain the “two systems” forever. Ultimately, they must converge into “One Country, One System.” The innovations emerging from the GMC must be mirrored across the rest of Bhutan for the nation to succeed as a whole. But this convergence will only succeed if we implement parallel reforms throughout the country—strengthening democracy, aligning the bureaucracy with future needs, improving laws, and reforming the education system to empower our people.

Democracy with 

Meritocracy

I want to share a story from my time as the Trongsa Penlop, leading up to the introduction of democracy in Bhutan. His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo once said it was too risky for the fate of our nation to rest solely on the King, as there is no guarantee future Kings will be competent or benevolent. For the country’s future security, democracy and enduring institutions were essential. 

His Majesty set high standards for our nation, refusing to simply copy foreign political systems. Our Constitution was designed with safeguards, including a two-step electoral process to avoid the pitfalls of coalition politics. We also adopted five-year terms for elected leaders to ensure continuity in development. Public campaign financing was introduced to level the playing field and reduce the influence of money, while a Bachelor’s degree requirement for parliament candidates was set to uphold meritocratic principles. 

I recall foreign visitors criticising the education requirement, to which I responded that in their countries, even school bus drivers undergo rigorous checks. Thus, it is only fitting that elected leaders, who govern the country, meet high standards. 

The introduction of the Constitution and electoral process in 2008 was just the beginning, not the realisation of His Majesty’s vision. For instance, in the first election, Gasa dzongkhag struggled to find enough college graduates to run for Parliament, and in 2013, a political party was disqualified for the same reason. If we had waited for perfect conditions, we would not have been able to introduce democracy in 2008.

It is crucial that we continue to strengthen our democratic system to ensure our institutions can uphold our security and sovereignty. This will enable us to address the challenges and opportunities arising from the GMC and facilitate smooth convergence. Our ultimate goal is a democracy rooted in meritocracy, where the most capable and experienced individuals lead the nation.

Enlightened Entrepreneurial Bureaucracy

The bureaucracy plays a crucial role in implementing laws, policies, and delivering public services, and I am grateful for the contributions of our civil servants. However, to align with our future goals, we must ensure the bureaucracy evolves to meet the changing demands of the nation.

While the private sector is often seen as more agile and efficient, bureaucracies are sometimes constrained by complex legal and procedural norms. With over 30,000 civil servants, reform may seem challenging. But when we look at multinational corporations, such as Unilever with 128,000 employees or the Tata Group with over a million, we see that large organisations can be managed effectively. This shows that there’s no reason we cannot improve our bureaucracy as well.

The bureaucracy must be agile enough to keep up with the rapid changes and innovations arising from the GMC. Our goal is to create an Enlightened Entrepreneurial Bureaucracy within the next 10 years to ensure successful convergence. If we fail to do this, comparisons will inevitably be made between the success of GMC and the lack of progress elsewhere in Bhutan—and if there is no convergence, I will have failed.

I am giving 10 years for this transformation to take place.

Laws

Laws are the foundation of order, security, prosperity, and social harmony. However, many countries face challenges due to an overabundance of laws, poor public understanding, and weak enforcement. This burdens the people and stifles innovation and enterprise.

In Bhutan, we must ensure that laws, particularly those affecting the economy, are enacted swiftly and amended when necessary to create an agile, responsive legal system that fosters progress rather than impedes it. Such a system will be essential to ensure the smooth convergence of the GMC with the rest of Bhutan. Our goal is to establish one of the best legal systems in the world within the next 10 years.

Laws should serve the nation, its people, and the economy.

Empower people 

Our aspirations to build a strong country can only be realised with a capable citizenry. To support a dynamic economy, we must either boost our fertility rates, improve productivity, or, ideally, achieve both. For a small country of just 700,000 people, enhancing education and skills is crucial. If every Bhutanese improves their productivity tenfold, we could function like a country with seven million people. This productivity boost is essential to achieving higher incomes and improving living standards.

A well-educated and skilled population will be key to preparing our people for the opportunities arising from the GMC and ensuring successful convergence in the years ahead. Skilled and educated citizens will eventually take over responsibilities from foreign workers. Our future success depends on our education system and strategy to enhance human capacity.

What we lack in numbers, we must make up for with discipline, devotion, hard work, loyalty, and intelligence.

Finally, I want to share some updates on the timeline for GMC. Our immediate priority over the next five years is the construction of a large international airport in Gelephu, which will establish the GMC as a key aviation hub. This airport is essential for the success of the GMC as a business hub, and it is also a critical lifeline for Bhutan’s national security, especially for a landlocked country. We will begin construction next year and aim to complete the airport by the end of 2029.

This project is not just an infrastructure development—it is a People’s Project—a nation-building effort, a lifeline for Bhutan, for our economy, security, sovereignty, and ultimately, our future.

I am deeply encouraged by the support from Bhutanese living abroad, particularly from those in Australia, the US, and Canada who have pledged nearly USD 140 million to the airport project. This amount will only grow with contributions from Bhutanese in other countries.

Our people are ready to contribute to this effort in any way necessary—whether by carrying soil or laying bricks with their own hands. I will even bring my own children to the airport work site, so they too can work alongside fellow citizens and help complete this important undertaking for our times.

My love for Bhutan and the extraordinary character of our people inspires me every day. Together, we share a vision of a bright future, carrying our legacy into the 21st century. Because of this, I will never tire, never lose hope, and never hesitate. I am confident in our nation, its people, and our collective ability to succeed. 

As you watch the Gyalsups march today, you will see for yourselves why I am so confident. They reassure me that Bhutan’s future will be bright.

Article link

https://kuenselonline.com/his-majestys-address-to-the-nation-on-national-day-2024/

Disclaimer

This article has been copied from Kuenselonline solely for my personal reference. It is intended to help me guide as I continue to serve my nation with unwavering loyalty and dedication. Every line stands as a testament to the collective effort required to build a great nation.

Our King On His Feet

 

Photo: HM's FB Page

In a nation where leadership is not merely a title but a sacred duty, our king stands high above all, embodying the very essence of strength, wisdom, and devotion for his nation. With every step he takes, he carries the weight of our hopes, dreams, and aspirations upon his shoulders, unwavering in his commitment to serve and protect his people. 

As the embodiment of our collective identity and pride, our king symbolizes unity in diversity, fostering harmony among all citizens. Through his tireless efforts, he inspires us to strive for excellence, reminding us that true greatness lies not in individual achievements, but in our ability to uplift one another. 

With unwavering resolve, he leads us through challenges, instilling in us the courage to persevere and the faith to believe in a tomorrow filled with promise and prosperity. 

More so, his vision coupled with His handsomeness is unparalleled for any ordinary comparison. 

He is our ultimate hope!

Pelden Drukpa Gyalo...!

Our King at the Pinnacle of Discipline

Photo: HM's Official FB Page

I have randomly collected a few quotes of His Majesty to describe the humbleness of our king. Showcasing true examples not just for Drukpas, but also for the world. Lived by His words, he is a true Servant Leader in the world. 

Every time I get to see our king, I always feel safe and humbled by His Disposition. I feel so proud to see His Majesty becoming brand ambassador of the beauty of our National dress and discipline. 

Every time I get to see my king so grounded in every aspect (dress and discipline and vision), I feel delighted, and I say to myself, "What more can a King do for His nation?"

                       -------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Rule of law brings about discipline in people and order in society. If there is order in society there will be peace and trust amongst the people.”

His Majesty the King
Druk Gyalpo Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck

                                                      

                                                   ****************

"We are also the custodians of national identity. Differences in our ethnicity, religious beliefs, regional and economic backgrounds must never be allowed to divide us– we must be able to always have a common Bhutanese identity that transcends all differences. There is no other country in the world exactly like Bhutan– we are unique in the world, we have a unique identity, and we have to ensure that we look after it".

His Majesty the King 
NGOP, 2018

                                                    ****************

“We must be a nation of honest, reliable and trustworthy people.”

HM the King JKNW (24 May 2019)

                                                  ****************

"The wise and timely decisions of the past have strengthened our security and sovereignty and enabled us to build a peaceful and unified nation where our people, despite religious, ethnic and linguistic diversity, live harmoniously like members of one family."

HM the King JKNW (24 May 2019)

                                                        ****************

“We will only be stronger as a team if we work together. We are unlike any other country, we are small, and only IN OUR UNITY WILL WE FIND STRENGTH.”

HM the King JKNW (18 Aug 2018)

                                                                     ****************

Precious Gem-The Future of Bhutan

 

The Precious Gem of the Thunder Dragon, 

the Future of the Country. 

With such gracefulness, there is no deny of his leadership

to stir our beloved nation to greatness.

Our beloved Gyalsey, the loved prince of Bhutan.

Photo: Facebook Page

HRH Gyalsey: Our Own North Star

THE EXAMPLE IS HERE, OUR HRH GYALSEY. 

Seeing HRH Gyalsey leading our nation gives off a good vibe. I wish every one of us had this discipline to serve and become a part of the country. It is the face of the nation and the future of Bhutan. There is nothing more humbling than seeing our HRH Gyalsey show the best of what eight-year-old kids can do. 

This is a great example we must take forward to develop our minds and mentalities to serve our nation and make our country great. We have our own North Star. The time is now! 

It is always nice to see our young prince already leading the nation. As much as he is humble and charming, he is so disciplined. I don't doubt the future of our nation, but we need a collective oneness, a nation-building mentality, an eye for perfection, toughness, and rigor to move the nation.

 

 (Foot note: This is my honest morning feeling seeing this updates on facebook page)

Photo: His Majesty's Official FB Page

10 February 2024: 

In a special ceremony befitting the profound significance of the occasion, His Royal Highness Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck received the Royal Charter for the Establishment of Gelephu Mindfulness City Special Administrative Region from the sacred Machen Lhakhang in Punakha Dzong.

His Royal Highness The Gyalsey offered Marchhang - libation offerings made to all deities and dharma protectors of the land - to invoke their blessings and protection for the successful launch and realization of His Majesty The King’s vision for the future of Bhutan. The Marchhang offerings were made before the Zhabdrung Khamsum Zilnon.

 

His Royal Highness The Gyalsey received the Royal Charter placed at the sacred Machen Lhakhang of Punakha Dzong. This is in keeping with the tradition of receiving blessings from the Machen Lhakhang for matters of the greatest national importance.

 

In recognition that the Gelephu Mindfulness City is established for the future of Bhutan, about 400 children from the region were invited to participate in the ceremony.

Her Majesty The Gyaltsuen graced the ceremony, which was attended by the Prime Minister, ministers, and senior government officials, and presided over by the His Eminence the Dorji Lopen. 

 

The Royal Charter, granted on the 1st day of the 1st month of the Male Wood Dragon Year, is a significant milestone in the establishment of the Special Administrative Region which will be known as Gelephu Mindfulness City, as announced by His Majesty The King on the 116th National Day. 

Declaimer : Copied from His Majesty's Official Facebook Page for future reference, archive.

To Our HRH Gyalsey Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck

 

Photo: His Majesty's Official Facebook Page

To our beloved HRH, Jigme Namgyel Wangchuck, the heart son, the future of us and Bhutan. 

I join the nation in offering our heartfelt prayers and good wishes for the good health, peace and prosperity of our Beloved Gyalsey on his 8th Birth Anniversary. 

May you remain humble for the nation. 

May you bring peace to our country.

May you shine like a diamond.  

May you be happy all the time.

Extraordinary Moments

 

Our Monarch Live by an Example

 

Source: Tiktok, pic 1/4

Source: Facebook, pic 2/4

The Royal Kupar 1/4 and 2/4 are on top of my list of beautiful photographs. In the picture frame our beloved king and Indian PM Modi was seen sharing some top vision for the two nations. It caught my attention for the fact that our beloved king was with his diary and a pen, ready to embark on Bhutan vision to PM Modi Je and vice-versa. What a rare moment!

It shows our beloved king one humble human being down to earth ruling monarch in the world. As much as it looks humble, it unveils his concern and love for his nation. It's truly unparalleled to compare with anything, anytime. We must learn as a nation what it means to be a king, and live life by example. It is absolutely rare to see any past and present kings of the world seen with pen and paper in high-level discussion. 

Source: Facebook, pic 3/4

Source: Facebook, pic 4/4