Former Queen dies plunging country into mourning with strict rules | Royal | News
The Royal Thai Government has declared national mourning following the death of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother. He passed away on October 24 at the King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok at the age of 93.
Thai prime minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that all Government offices, government institutions and educational institutions will fly the national flag at half-mast for 30 days, starting from October 25. Strict rules are enforced in the state, including civil servants and employees of public institutions observing a one-year mourning period in black. The public is requested to comply with the 90-day mourning period and wear black, light or neutral tones.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul added that Sirikit’s passing was “a great loss for the country.”
Although overshadowed by her late husband and son, the current king, Sirikit was a beloved and influential person in her own right. His portrait has been displayed in homes, offices and public spaces across Thailand.
Despite this serious situation, the government did not give any instructions to suspend public or tourism activities. However, during the first 30 days, the prime ministry demanded that the entertainment industry, venues and service organizations act with restraint.
tourism authority Thailand stated that the country remains “open and fully operational”, including “all tourist attractions, transport services, restaurants, shops and events”.
The statement added: “Public events, entertainment activities and commercial operations are encouraged to exercise discretion and adjust their formats as appropriate to reflect the national atmosphere of mourning,” and elements of festivity and celebration are postponed until further notice.
Vijit Chao Phraya, a major festival with a 45-day light and sound show in Bangkok, was originally planned to run from November 1 to December 15 but will start on December 1 instead.
It targets 1.5 million visitors and generates revenue of 500 billion Thai baht (£11.5 billion).
The annual Loy Krathong and Candle Festival will run from October 27 to November 5 at Sukhothai Historical Park and has been modified to celebrate the mourning period. Candle lighting ceremonies in memory of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, will be held each night at 21.21.
Other festivals will also make changes, but daily life and tourism throughout Thailand will continue, with an emphasis on respectful dress and behavior.
