Chaophraya Yommarat (Pan Sukhum)

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Chaophraya Yommarat, born Pan Sukhum (1862–1938), was a Thai noble and government official who helped modernize Siam (Thailand). He started as a Buddhist monk, then joined the government at about 21, teaching at the royal palace school and later tutoring King Chulalongkorn’s children in England. He also served 11 years as a diplomat in London. Returning to Siam, he became commissioner of Monthon Nakhon Si Thammarat and then held several ministries, including Public Works, Metropolitan Affairs, and Interior. He helped bring electricity and waterworks to Bangkok, established a modern police force, and oversaw Siam’s first cement factory. In 1908 he was elevated to the highest noble rank, Chaophraya Yommarat. He served as Interior Minister from 1922 to 1926. In 1935 he was named regent for King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII), a post he held until his death in 1938. Chao Phraya Yommarat Hospital in Suphan Buri is named after him. He had four wives, including Thanphuying Talab Yommarat.