Bangkok: The Prime Minister visited Tha Wasukri Pier and Wat Arun to inspect the rehearsal of the royal barge procession, expressing confidence that it would be perfect. The Prime Minister monitored the rehearsal of the Royal Barge Procession in honor of the Royal Kathina Ceremony and the 4th Cycle Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. He affirmed the readiness of the procession, emphasizing that it is not only beautiful but also reflects pride in the nation's core institutions. He expressed confidence in security measures and the convenience provided for the public and tourists, and believed that riverside vendors would not take advantage of the situation.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul traveled to monitor the rehearsal of the Royal Barge Procession on the occasion of the Royal Kathina Ceremony and the 4th Cycle Birthday Anniversary of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on June 3, 2026, at Tha Wasukri Pier, Dusit District, and Wat Arun Ratchawararam, Bangkok Yai District, Bangkok. Upon arrival, the Prime Minister received a briefing from the Royal Thai Navy at the Royal Barge House, summarizing the preparations for the Royal Barge Procession and the readiness of the 2,000 oarsmen. The Prime Minister then inspected the readiness of the two royal barges: the Suphannahong Royal Barge, which will carry the Kathina robes, and the Narai Song Suban Royal Barge, which will carry the Kathina robes.
After boarding a Royal Thai Navy vessel that would accompany the fleet throughout the journey to monitor readiness and check the water currents, the Prime Minister disembarked at Wat Arun Ratchawararam. There, he paid respects at the monument of King Rama II (King Phutthaloetla Naphalai) and also offered prayers to Phra Phutthathamisarat Lokathat Dilok and Phra Phuttha Narumit at the main chapel of Wat Arun. The deputy abbot, Phra Ratchawachiraratana Bhon, presented the Prime Minister with a Garuda amulet, symbolizing overcoming obstacles, possessing great power and prestige, protecting against enemies, and bringing prosperity to his career. Before the Prime Minister departed, he was greeted by many people who requested to take photos with him.
The Prime Minister, in an interview after observing the rehearsal of the Royal Barge Procession for the Kathina Ceremony and the auspicious occasion of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit's 4th Cycle Birthday Anniversary on June 3, 2026, stated that the procession of boats, the route, and the ceremonial format for the Royal Ceremony on November 6th are all in perfect order. He added that rehearsals of the barge procession are ongoing to ensure its beauty and safety. This was the fourth rehearsal, and many more will be conducted until the day of the Royal Ceremony. He expressed confidence that, in addition to showcasing the beauty of Thai culture, the event will instill pride in the nation's core institutions.
Regarding the safety of tourists at the viewing points of the barge procession, the Prime Minister stated that security along the route is already very strict. Tourists can visit various points along the river, including temples and schools. He will instruct the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Culture to provide full assistance to the public and tourists. Those who can afford the amenities can visit restaurants, cafes, and riverside eateries, which always offer services to allow them to fully enjoy the royal barge procession.
When asked whether restaurants along the river needed to be urged to control their prices, the Prime Minister expressed his belief that restaurant owners would want people to have the opportunity to enjoy the event without exploitation or opportunism.