Fourth Army Region Deputy Commander Maj Gen Khunawat Morkaew presided over a ceremony to mark the launch of Rajabhakti Park at 9am, a ceremony which was also held to honour of King Bhumibol’s 70th year on the throne and the seventh cycle birthday of HM Queen Sirikit
Also in attendance at the ceremony were Governor Chamroen Tipyapongtada, Vice Governor Chokdee Amornwat, Vice Governor Khajornkiet Rakpanichmanee, government officials, students,and residents.
Gov Chamroen said, “We are following through with the road map set out by the beach organising committee according to the Phuket Beach Model .
“It was decided by the committee that Surin Beach should be an area dedicated to the King and Queen, and the first phrase of the project will see this area developed into Rajabhakti Park using a budget of over B60 million,” he said.
“In addition, Surin Beach will also see the introduction of many beach associations including a youth beach association which are aimed at promoting and educating a love of our environment and natural resources and promoting Phuket as one of the world’s best tourism destination for as long as possible,” he added.
During the course of the morning, people signed well-wishes for King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit and gave alms to 70 monks.
Gov Chamroen also presented registration documents for 12 beach associations and 13 youth beach associations.
After the launch ceremony, Vice Admiral Sayan Prasongsomrit, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) Third Area Command led the crowd of both Thais and foreigners to Patong Beach where some 470 sea turtles were released into the sea.
Through out the day at Surin Beach where the future Rajabhakti Park will stand, people enjoyed a number of activities such including food and historical photography competitions and many exhibitions.