Chiang rai: The Department of Religious Affairs organized the ASEAN Vesak Day event to strengthen Thai-Myanmar relations and enhance Buddhist faith in both countries. The event, held in collaboration with Chiang Rai Province, was themed "Northernmost Siam: The Power of Buddhist Faith Across Two Lands" and was presided over by Phra Kru Prayut.
According to Thai News Agency, the event aimed to foster good relations within the ASEAN region through religious dimensions, positively impacting the local tourism economy. The Venerable Phra Chetiyanukarn, Abbot of Wat Phra That Doi Wao, led the religious ceremony, while Mr. Chuchip Pongchai, Governor of Chiang Rai Province, oversaw the lay ceremony. Mr. Pojanat Panyasilp, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, also attended.
Mr. Phisan Chansilp, Cultural Provincial Officer of Chiang Rai, along with representatives from government agencies, the private sector, and the local community, participated in the event at Wat Phra That Doi Wao in Chiang Rai Province and religious sites in Tachilek Province, Myanmar. Mr. Pojanat Panyasilp highlighted the significance of Visakha Bucha Day, which commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha, and is recognized by the United Nations.
The event, titled "ASEAN Visakha Bucha: Strengthening Thai-Myanmar Relations," will occur on May 29-30, 2026, at Wat Phra That Doi Wao and Wat Phra That Sai Mueang. Activities will include a seminar on "The Pilgrimage Route: The Northernmost Point of Siam, the Power of Faith in Buddhism Across Two Lands," cultural exchange performances, merit-making ceremonies, chanting of Buddhist scriptures, lighting of 1,000 lanterns, and a candlelit procession.
The Deputy Director-General further stated that on May 30, 2026, participants would cross into Myanmar to engage in an alms-giving ceremony, offer necessities to monks and novices, and pay homage to the Mahamuni Buddha and other significant sites. The event underscores the importance of Visakha Puja Day for promoting Buddhist teachings and strengthening Thai-Myanmar relations.