Her Majesty, whose birthday on Aug 12 is celebrated nationwide as Mother’s Day, was revered for her compassion, tireless public service and commitment to preserving Thailand’s artistic heritage.
PRESERVING THAINESS
Her Majesty recognised the importance of Thailand’s cultural roots and sought to ensure that the nation’s heritage would continue to be cherished by future generations. She often reminded Thais that while embracing modernity was necessary, it should never come at the expense of traditional values and identity.
One of her most enduring contributions was the creation of the Royal Thai Dress ‒ a national costume that reflects the elegance and craftsmanship of Thai culture.
In 1960, while accompanying His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great on state visits to Europe and the United States, Her Majesty realised that Thai women lacked a distinctive national dress that could represent the country abroad.
Under royal guidance, traditional Thai garments were adapted into modern yet culturally authentic styles, resulting in eight official designs: Ruean Ton, Chitlada, Amarin, Boromphiman, Chakri, Dusit, Sivalai and Chakkraphat.
These designs have since become a source of national pride and are worn on ceremonial occasions across Thailand. They have also gained recognition internationally for their elegance and artistry. The Royal Thai Dress is now being considered by UNESCO for inclusion as a World Heritage item in 2026.
‘GREAT BENEFACTOR TO THE NATION’
Phuket Town Mayor Suphachok La-ongphet described the Queen Mother as “a benefactor to the country, both in Phuket and across Thailand”.
He noted that Her Majesty had been a leading figure in promoting Thai fabrics and fashion through royal projects that gained worldwide recognition.
“Her Majesty was always a supporter of the Thai people in every way,” he said.
Mr Suphachok also explained that local municipalities were reviewing plans for upcoming events such as Loy Krathong to ensure they were held respectfully during the mourning period.
“Safety and appropriateness will guide our decisions,” he said. “Entertainment activities may be reduced or postponed, but traditional and cultural elements will remain.”
TONE DOWN FESTIVITIES
Patong Mayor Lalita Maneesri expressed deep sorrow at the Queen Mother’s passing, describing her as “a second mother to all Thai people”.
“I remember her infinite grace and will remain loyal to her,” she said. “She sacrificed her time and everything for her people. We will always love her and continue to do good in her memory.”
Mayor Lalita confirmed that Patong’s Loy Krathong festival would still take place, but on a smaller scale and without major fireworks or loud music.
“The event will continue as it is a cherished tradition, but we will ensure the tone reflects the mourning period,” she said.
She also announced that municipal flags would be flown at half-mast, and all officials would wear black for one year. The general public is being asked to wear black for 30 days as a sign of respect.
Entertainment venues and private event organisers in Patong have been asked to follow the same guidelines, ensuring modest dress and subdued activities.
ECONOMIC IMPACT AND CONTINUITY
Phuket Chamber of Commerce President Kongsak Khoophongsakorn joined other local leaders in expressing condolences, recalling the Queen Mother’s visits to Phuket alongside King Rama IX.
“She and His Majesty the King worked tirelessly for the country,” he said. “Their royal projects and visits left a lasting legacy that benefited Phuket’s development.”
Mr Kongsak said that while Phuket’s business community shares in the nation’s grief, it is also important for the economy to continue functioning.
“If events are scaled back too much, it will have an impact,” he said. “The government understands that people are mourning, but the economy must keep moving. Mourning should be expressed with modern sensitivity – with dignity, not disruption.”
He suggested that future events could incorporate tributes to the Queen Mother, such as moments of silence or displays reflecting her contributions, while avoiding extravagant entertainment.
MOURNING GUIDELINES
At the national level, the government has moved to clarify misinformation circulating on social media about an alleged ban on entertainment activities.
Traisulee Traisaranakul, Secretary-General to the Prime Minister, confirmed that no official order has been issued to prohibit or suspend private events.
“The government only asks that activities be conducted with discretion and respect,” she said. “The Prime Minister’s intention is for all Thais to mourn with love, unity and reverence, without restricting economic or social activities.”
Deputy Government Spokesperson Lalida Perisvivatana added that entertainment venues and organisers are being asked to cooperate voluntarily by reducing entertainment activities for 30 days.
“For events already planned, organisers should adjust the format to suit the occasion. For those not yet begun, we ask they be postponed until after the mourning period,” Ms Lalida said.
“All parties are encouraged to act with modesty and the utmost respect for the Queen Mother’s grace,” she added.
LEGACY OF LOVE AND CULTURE
As Phuket joins the nation in mourning, tributes to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, continue to highlight her lifelong dedication to the Thai people ‒ from promoting traditional arts and fabrics to serving as a symbol of unity and compassion.
Her legacy, deeply woven into the cultural fabric of Thailand, will continue to inspire generations to come.