Bangkok: The Ministry of Culture organized a 15-day merit-making ceremony, known as Pa±rasamvara, to dedicate merit to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. Cultural members gathered to record the royal address and advice of Her Majesty the Queen Mother, and prepared to print a book of her royal speeches and advice for distribution to the public. All agencies participated in the event to express their condolences and deepest gratitude for Her Majesty's immeasurable grace.
According to Thai News Agency, the ceremony was presided over by Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture, along with Mr. Prasop Riangngen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture. Senior executives, public organization officials, and civil servants attended the event at the Watanat Wisit Building in Bangkok's Huai Khwang District. This occasion marked the 15th day since the Queen Mother's passing, highlighting her significant contributions to Thai culture, particularly in the promotion of Thai fabrics, traditional handicrafts, music, and dance.
Ms. Sabida Thaiset emphasized that the ministry will follow Her Majesty's royal initiatives to preserve and promote Thai cultural heritage. The Ministry of Culture aims to conserve, restore, and extend Thai wisdom through various projects, ensuring the continued existence of local arts and culture. Efforts include spreading the value of Thai fabrics internationally on a solid cultural foundation.
The ministry is also working on preparations for the royal cremation ceremony, including the compilation of chronicles and commemorative books. A meeting was held to clarify the criteria for collecting regional data, documents, and photographs across 76 provincial cultural offices to ensure comprehensive data collection. A compilation committee will be appointed to expedite the process of publishing the royal speeches and advice for public distribution.
In terms of public relations, the Ministry of Culture has disseminated news and information regarding the royal cremation ceremony, the royal biography, duties, and the eight styles of royal Thai traditional clothing. The ministry has also provided religious and moral knowledge about the merit-making ceremonies in Buddhist and Thai royal traditions.
Additionally, the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Culture organized a blood donation event to honor the Queen Mother. The Department of Religious Affairs collaborated with religious networks and organizations to create ribbons symbolizing condolences, which will be distributed in public areas. Throughout the 100-day royal merit-making ceremony, officials will work with the Bureau of the Royal Household to perform the royal merit-making ceremony and related activities.
The Ministry of Culture expressed its deepest respect and gratitude, considering it a great honor to serve His Majesty on this significant occasion.