Remembering Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand: Her Legacy and Life at 93

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit passed away on Friday at the age of 93. The Royal Household Bureau announced that she had been battling a blood infection since October 17. Sadly, her health did not improve despite medical efforts. In 2012, she suffered a stroke, which limited her public appearances. Her husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, died in 2016.

King Maha Vajiralongkorn has ordered a funeral with full honors and a year of mourning for the royal family and staff. Many mourners gathered outside Chulalongkorn Hospital, deeply affected by her passing. “It’s a great loss for the whole nation,” said Maneerat Laowalert, 67, expressing her shock. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul echoed this sentiment, stating that the national flag will fly at half-staff for 30 days.

While she often stood in the shadow of her husband and son, Queen Sirikit was a beloved figure in Thailand. Her portrait graced homes and offices, and her birthday, August 12, was celebrated as Mother’s Day. She actively engaged in various causes, including aiding Cambodian refugees and protecting the environment.

Though the monarchy usually steers clear of politics, Sirikit’s influence was felt during times of political turmoil in Thailand. Notably, her presence at the 2008 funeral of a protester was interpreted as a statement about political division in the country.

From Aristocracy to Advocacy

Sirikit was born on August 12, 1932, in an aristocratic family in Bangkok. At just 16, she met King Bhumibol in Paris while studying music. Their relationship grew stronger after he suffered a car accident, leading her to move to Switzerland to care for him. They married in 1950, vowing to serve the Thai people.

The couple balanced royal duties while addressing domestic issues like rural poverty and addiction. Popular among the rural population, Queen Sirikit enjoyed hiking and connecting with villagers. She once noted, “Misunderstandings arise between people in rural areas and the so-called civilized people in Bangkok.”

Queen Sirikit was not just a ceremonial figure; she initiated numerous development projects. Her SUPPORT Foundation helped train villagers in traditional crafts, preserving Thailand’s artistic heritage. She also established wildlife centers and projects aimed at conserving valuable natural resources.

In a 1979 interview, she asserted the monarchy’s significance in Thailand, emphasizing the need for a compassionate ruler. “There are some who think the monarchy is obsolete,” she stated. “But I think Thailand needs an understanding monarch.” This belief aligned with the emotional connection many Thais felt towards the royal family.

Legacy and Impact

Queen Sirikit’s legacy is profound. Statistics show that her efforts led to a significant increase in rural development projects, contributing to both cultural preservation and economic growth. As of today, crafts taught through her foundation still support countless families across Thailand.

Social media reactions highlight how much she meant to the people. Many shared memories and expressed gratitude for her contributions, shaping a narrative of loss and remembrance.

In modern Thailand, opinions about monarchy are mixed, yet Sirikit’s compassion remains a powerful symbol of unity. Her life reflected the struggles and aspirations of many Thais, showcasing the enduring role of the monarchy in Thailand’s cultural identity.

For more information about Queen Sirikit and her initiatives, visit the Associated Press’ coverage.

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Thailand, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Bangkok, Royalty, General news, Asia Pacific, AP Top News, Notable Deaths, Thailand government, World news