BANGKOK (Bernama): The Thai government has clarified that it is not prohibiting private sector or public festivities during the national mourning period to honour the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.
Government spokesperson Siripong Angkasakulkiat said the government wishes to avoid any misunderstanding and to emphasise that no order has been issued to ban events or festivities organised by the private sector or the general public.
"Unlike government agencies, the private sector and the public are only requested to exercise discretion and adjust their activities appropriately in accordance with Thai traditions and culture.
"This is to prevent unnecessary disruption to the economy or financial burdens on organisers if events are suddenly cancelled," he said in a statement on Saturday.
Siripong explained that events such as ordination ceremonies, weddings, and traditional functions may still proceed. However, organisers should ensure that they are conducted respectfully and appropriately.
Nevertheless, Siripong said Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul has called on all Thais to unite in expressing their deepest condolences on the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, and to channel their loyalty and devotion as moral support for His Majesty the King and all members of the royal family.
He added that the government would ensure that the royal funeral is conducted with the highest honour and in full accordance with royal tradition.
"The prime minister calls upon all Thais to come together in unity, love, and loyalty during this period of national mourning, and to offer these sentiments as moral strength for His Majesty the King and the royal family," he said.
Earlier, the Bureau of the Royal Household announced that Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, aged 93, passed away on Friday evening.
His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn has instructed the bureau to organise Her Majesty's royal funeral with the highest honours, in accordance with royal tradition.
The royal procession of the Queen Mother's remains to the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall within the Grand Palace is scheduled to take place at 4 pm (Thai time) on Sunday. - Bernama
