Bangkok: The government held a merit-making ceremony on the seventh day of the lunar month to honor Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Mr. Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn, presided over the laity’s ceremony, while Somdej Phra Buddhacarya, a member of the Sangha Supreme Council and abbot of Wat Traimit Witthayaram, led the monastic ceremony. The event was attended by the Cabinet, heads of departments under the Office of the Prime Minister, civil servants, and officials from Government House, all gathered to express their loyalty and gratitude for Her Majesty’s service.
According to Thai News Agency, following the religious ceremony, Mr. Pipat delivered a speech of condolence in front of the royal portrait. He emphasized the significance of the merit-making ceremony and the mourning, stating that he, along with the Cabinet, civil servants, and Thai citizens, joined together to honor Her Majesty’s legacy and remember her dedication to the nation.
Over the past seven decades, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit has been recognized for her diligence and wisdom in carrying out numerous royal duties, benefiting both the people and the nation. Her initiatives have led to significant developments across the country, particularly in natural resource conservation and environmental restoration, fostering sustainable support for all living things in Thailand.
Her Majesty has also championed the arts, promoting the accumulated wisdom of Thai ancestors. The Support for the Arts and Crafts Project, one of her notable legacies, has produced valuable works of art known internationally, continuing to benefit the Thai nation and its people.
Viewed as the “Mother of the Land,” Her Majesty’s influence and encouragement have been a constant source of inspiration for her subjects. The government, along with the citizens of Thailand, pledged to uphold her aspirations with loyalty and continue performing good deeds for the nation’s benefit.
The ceremony concluded with a moment of silence as attendees reflected on the immeasurable grace of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, pledging to hold her in the highest regard forever.