Bangkok: The Department of Religious Affairs celebrated its 85th anniversary with the "Religious Patronage Day" event, aiming to promote religious and cultural capital to create value and generate sustainable income for communities.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, organized the "Religious Patronage Day" event for the year 2026 to commemorate this milestone anniversary. The event included a Buddhist chanting ceremony, presided over by Somdej Phra Maha Theeracharn, a member of the Supreme Sangha Council, Chief Abbot of the Northern Region, and Abbot of Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangkalaram. Mr. Chaiyapol Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, led the lay side of the ceremony. Also in attendance were executives from MCOT Public Company Limited, including Mr. Sommai Suwanwong, Deputy Managing Director, and Mr. Natthapong Phatarapong, Assistant Managing Director of Thai News Agency.
The Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs emphasized that as the department enters its 85th year, it will focus on 'Faith to Future,' driving 'Faith, Concentration, and Economy' to leverage religious and cultural capital. The goal is to create value and income for communities, positioning religion as a crucial element in building people, communities, and a sustainable future for the country.