Bhutan King Forms New Team to Lead Development of Gelephu Mindfulness City

Rajesh Sharma, KalimNews, Jaigaon, October 2, 2024 :  The King of Bhutan, Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, has announced the appointment of a new leadership team to oversee the development of the Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), an ambitious project aimed at fostering sustainable, transformative growth while embracing Bhutanese values.

Mun Leong Liew has been appointed as the CEO of GMC, with Joichi "Joi" Ito serving as the Chairman of the Gelephu Investment Development Corporation (GIDC). The GMC Board of Directors will include notable figures such as Yee Ean Pang, Seow Hiang Lee, Arun Kapur, and Lauren Chung. Each of these leaders brings a wealth of experience and expertise, which will be critical in shaping the future of GMC, a global economic hub grounded in mindful development principles.

Announced by the King in December 2023, Gelephu Mindfulness City is envisioned as a model city that integrates cutting-edge infrastructure with Bhutanese traditions, aiming to redefine sustainable urban living. Speaking on his appointment, Mun Leong Liew, who played a key role in the development of Singapore's Changi International Airport, stated, "This project will redefine sustainable urban living, and I look forward to collaborating with a diverse team of professionals to realize His Majesty's vision."

Joichi Ito also expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its pioneering focus on environmentally responsible development. "Gelephu Mindfulness City and Bhutan are leading the way in mindful development, leveraging abundant green energy sources. I am thrilled to be part of this initiative," said Ito.

The development team’s mission is to establish GMC as a beacon of sustainable growth, blending modern technology with Bhutan's cultural values. With Ito concurrently serving as Chairman of the GIDC, the corporation will focus on attracting investments and fostering economic growth in Gelephu and across Bhutan. Key initiatives will include enhancing digital connectivity and promoting investments in green energy sources like hydropower and solar power. GIDC will also facilitate the establishment of technology-driven industries such as data centers and artificial intelligence (AI) companies powered by carbon-free energy.

Ito brings extensive experience in technology and innovation, having held prominent roles as President of the Chiba Institute of Technology and Director of the Media Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). His leadership is expected to enhance GMC’s capacity to harness green energy and implement advanced technologies such as web3 and blockchain.

Other key appointees include Seow Hiang Lee, former CEO of Changi Airport Group, who brings insights into urban development and international connectivity. Arun Kapur, founder of the Druk Gyalpo’s Institute in Bhutan, will focus on upskilling Bhutanese talent for leadership roles in GMC. Lauren Chung, Asia Pacific CEO of Teneo, will contribute her expertise in international relations and communication strategies, essential for GMC’s engagement with global stakeholders.

The new appointees attended the Bhutan Innovation Forum in Paro, where Bjarke Ingels, founding partner and creative director of Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), presented the master plan for GMC. The project aims to create a city centered around mindfulness, sustainability, and innovation, blending traditional Bhutanese values with modern design and technology. Powered by Bhutan’s abundant green energy, GMC will serve as a global model for holistic development.

Gelephu Mindfulness City will function as a Special Administrative Region (SAR), endowed with executive, legislative, and judicial powers, enabling it to operate independently and drive innovation in governance and development.

The appointment of this diverse, experienced leadership team marks a significant step forward in realizing His Majesty's vision of a sustainable, globally connected Bhutan.