Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay Debuts His First Book, Enlightened Leadership
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay has launched his new book, Enlightened Leadership: Inside Bhutan’s Inspiring Transition from Monarchy to Democracy, in Singapore and Malaysia.
Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay’s much-anticipated book, Enlightened Leadership: Inside Bhutan’s Inspiring Transition from Monarchy to Democracy, was officially launched yesterday in Singapore and Malaysia.
The book explores Bhutan’s extraordinary transformation from an absolute monarchy to a democratic nation, offering leadership insights drawn from this significant transition.
“It is a story about leadership that prioritises the well-being of our people, the importance of shared values, and the courage to adapt in the face of change. I hope it will resonate with readers everywhere, particularly those grappling with questions of leadership, governance, and national identity,” the prime minister shared on his social media page.
He revealed that the book was written during the Covid-19 pandemic, a period that offered a rare opportunity for reflection as the world came to a halt.
Published by Penguin Random House Southeast Asia, the book sheds light on the leadership and vision of Bhutan’s monarchs, particularly His Majesty the Fourth King and His Majesty the King, whose wisdom and selfless dedication guided the country through this pivotal change.
It also highlights Bhutan’s values, its deep-rooted commitment to Gross National Happiness, and the resilience of its people.
For readers worldwide, the e-book edition is available on Amazon, while physical copies can be purchased online through Amazon and Kinokuniya. The book is set to be launched in Bhutan next month.
“It will be available to Bhutanese readers by the end of March, with the physical edition set to release in April. Proceeds from the book will go to charitable causes within Bhutan,” the Prime Minister shared on his social media pages.
He further noted that the book provides insights into leadership within the Bhutanese context.
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Where to Buy Enlightened Leadership Book
Enlightened Leadership Synopsis
Discover the transformative power of wisdom, courage, and compassion in Enlightened Leadership by Tshering Tobgay, Bhutan’s esteemed Prime Minister and TED Talks sensation. Through Bhutan’s unique approach to climate change, its peaceful transition to democracy and its administration based on Gross National Happiness, you’ll learn from his firsthand experience how these traditional qualities unlock the potential for positive change, unity and powerful action.
This book offers invaluable insights into leadership that combines ancient wisdom and modern best practices, blending timeless guidance from the past with today’s principles for effective governance. By emphasising the role of selfless service, it vividly recounts how these qualities foster enlightened leadership, and how they have seen Bhutan through a tumultuous past and a present defined by the uncertainty of climate change—a process that continues to be selflessly led with wisdom, courage and compassion by its revered Kings.
As he takes you through his personal experiences growing up and entering the civil service and political arena, his clear and impassioned storytelling will open up the wondrous land of Bhutan to readers. You’ll witness a country deeply rooted in tradition yet boldly preparing for the future, offering profound lessons on leadership, change and resilience.
About Author Tshering Tobgay
Dasho Tshering Tobgay is a Bhutanese politician, environmentalist, and cultural advocate having served as Bhutan’s first leader of the opposition party from 2008 to 2013, and as Prime Minister from 2013 to 2018. He is currently the Prime Minister of Bhutan, after winning the elections in 2023.
Dasho Tshering was a civil servant before he joined active politics. He was the first official to resign from his work to take part in his country’s transition to a parliamentary democracy. He was responsible for establishing the People’s Democratic Party as the first registered political party in Bhutan and continues to serve as its president.
As an advocate of Gross National Happiness, he has spoken about conservation, climate change, poverty, democracy and happiness in various international conferences.
