Thailand's Tourism Chief Honors Queen Sirikit at Candlelight Ceremony

Surasak Panjaroenvorakul, Thailand's Minister of Tourism and Sports, spearheaded a ceremony featuring candlelight tributes to celebrate Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. This significant event marked the Queen’s fourth-cycle birthday and drew senior officials and agency representatives.

Held at Sanam Luang, a key ceremonial venue in Thailand, the gathering included members of the Cabinet and state institutions who participated in traditional royal tribute practices as a show of loyalty and respect.

As the ceremony unfolded, attendees congregated before taking part in official events led by Anutin Charnvirakul. The proceedings included floral tributes presented before the royal portrait, a candle-lighting segment, and the singing of the Royal Anthem.

In his speech, Minister Surasak underscored Queen Sirikit's profound impact on Thailand's cultural evolution. He highlighted her efforts in safeguarding and promoting traditional Thai textiles and handicrafts, which are essential to the nation's identity.

The minister outlined how these royal initiatives have bolstered Thailand’s cultural profile internationally, forming a vital part of the country’s soft power. Local crafts, community products, and traditional wisdom are increasingly represented on global platforms through tourism and cultural exchanges.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports continues to weave royal development ideals into its strategies, promoting community-centered and cultural tourism projects to support local economies and preserve traditions, enhancing Thailand's status as a premier cultural tourism hub.

Earlier in the day, Seksan Ngaosuwan participated in a floral tribute, demonstrating national gratitude for Queen Sirikit’s enduring commitment to cultural preservation and social advancement on a worldwide scale.