Bangkok: Lamyong Nong Hin Hao, a volunteer Morlam singer, was seen using a pestle to prepare and distribute papaya salad to people who came to pay respects at the royal urn of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother at Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in the Grand Palace.

According to Thai News Agency, Lamyong transported 200 kilograms of papaya and 30 kilograms of blue swimming crabs to Sanam Luang to prepare various kinds of papaya salad, including those with fermented fish, Thai sauce, and mixed vegetables. This effort was intended to serve the mourners paying tribute to the late Queen Mother.

Lamyong revealed that she was inspired to volunteer following an invitation from Boom Panadda, president of the Good Deeds Foundation. Less than a week before the event, she informed her close friends and fans about her plans and encouraged them to contribute ingredients for the som tam (papaya salad) dish. Her dedication to volunteering at Sanam Luang was evident in her desire to participate daily, contingent upon the availability of Boom Panadda’s support.

Despite preparing numerous batches of papaya salad, Lamyong felt energized by her mission to feed her fellow citizens. She expressed fulfillment in her volunteer work, which she dedicated to the late Queen Mother, whom she admired greatly. Lamyong shared fond memories of observing Her Majesty’s royal duties throughout her life and expressed gratitude for Her Majesty’s kindness and dedication to the people, which included promoting self-sufficiency and farming among the populace. The news of the Queen Mother’s passing, coupled with the earlier loss of His Majesty King Rama IX, deeply saddened Lamyong, likening it to a personal loss.