UNICEF Blue Star Gala Rallies Leaders and Chefs to Tackle Child Malnutrition

BANGKOK, 9 March 2026 – Business leaders, public figures, celebrities and philanthropists gathered last Friday for the UNICEF Blue Star Gala 2026. The evening was co-hosted by four of Thailand’s most influential women - Nualphan Lamsam, UNICEF Thailand National Ambassador; Busadee Chearavanont; Marisa Chearavanont; and Thapanee Techachareonvikul - while eight Michelin-starred chefs lent their talent to the cause, creating dishes that celebrated the importance of healthy, nutritious food for every child.

The gala was created to tackle child malnutrition in Thailand and overseas, an urgent problem affecting millions of vulnerable children. In Thailand, one in eight children is stunted due to poor nutrition. Globally, an estimated 150 million children are stunted, and nearly five million children die each year from malnutrition-related causes.

An inspiring opening address was made by Anand Panyarachun, who has served as UNICEF Thailand Goodwill Ambassador for more than 30 years and continues to champion the rights and well-being of children. UNICEF Thailand National Ambassador Nualphan Lamsam spoke powerfully about malnutrition and its devastating impact both on children and Thailand’s development.

The eight chefs boast a combined 12 Michelin stars between them. From Thailand came Chudaree Debhakam of Baan Tepa, Chumpol Jangprai of R-Haan, Napol Jantraget and Saki Hoshino of Kwann and Nawa Thai Cuisine, Prin Polsuk of Samrub Samrub Thai, and Sachin Poojary of INDDEE. They were joined by internationally acclaimed chefs Shinobu Namae of L’Effervescence in Japan and Cho Hee-sook of Hansikgonggan in South Korea, who travelled to Bangkok in an exceptional display of commitment. The chefs haven't just donated their time to this gala, they’ve also participated in UNICEF’s Kin Rai Dee campaign to raise awareness of healthy eating and provide practical tips to parents.

UNICEF’s KinRaiDee #HungryForHope campaign aims to promote better nutrition, provide support to parents on preparing healthy meals, and secure funds for children facing malnutrition in Thailand and in emergency situations around the world. UNICEF is working with the Royal Thai Government to improve nutrition policy and is currently prioritising stronger regulations on the marketing of unhealthy food to children.

UNICEF Thailand Representative Ken Legins extended his sincere appreciation to all guests and partners who generously contributed their time, talent, resources and financial support to the cause.

Originally published by UNICEF