Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) has captured global attention as a unique development philosophy, emphasizing holistic wellbeing over mere economic metrics. Yet, as Mr. Namgay Tshering, Former Finance Minister of Bhutan and alumnus of Chulalongkorn University’s Master of Public Health program, points out, the concept often raises questions: “People tend to ask whether every Bhutanese is happy. GNH is not about individual happiness alone—it’s about collective wellbeing, sustainability, and inclusivity.”

Chula ARi, an integrated interdisciplinary project for an urban aging society, uses research to return data to communities and co-develop a comprehensive elderly care model covering economics, society, health, environment, and innovation. The project also encourages pre-senior citizens to prepare early for the challenges of a rapidly aging population.