BANGKOK – All of Thailand is abuzz this week in celebration of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's Diamond Jubilee, the 60th anniversary the Thai king ascended to the throne. The celebrations are on a grand scale to honour not only the longest reigning monarch in Thai history, but also the world's current longest serving head of state. King Bhumibol assumed the throne in 1946, six years ahead of Queen Elizabeth II who has served the second longest.
For the past six decades, King Bhumibol, has earned the loyalty and respect of most Thais in part because of his innovative development projects that aim to help improve the lives of his subjects, in particular the rural poor. Some of the over 3,000 Royal Projects cover areas such as agricultural reform, water conservation, alternative schools, drug rehabilitation and health care.
In times of natural disaster, the King has also provided advice and assistance to his people. The Rajaprajanugroh Foundation was founded under the King's patronage in 1962 following one of the worst natural disasters ever to hit Thailand when tropical storm Harriet tore through 20 provinces killing more than 900 people. After the 2004 tsunami struck southern Thailand, the King asked the foundation to immediately release 30 million Baht of his personal funds for relief efforts.
"I'm happy to be born during the same time as our king. I feel very proud and honored," says 33-year-old Bangkok resident Mrs. Sasawan Chuensomtoj, reflecting a typical sentiment in Thailand. "Our king has given everything for his people and sacrificed so much for the people to live better."
Last month, King Bhumibol became the first recipient of the United Nations Development Program's Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award.
Jubilee Celebrations
The highlight of the anniversary celebrations were scheduled for Friday, June 9–60 years to the day after the 18-year old student was crowned King on June 9, 1946, and June 12. Although plenty of festivities will be occurring throughout the year, June is particularly special in Thailand with most activities centering around these two dates, including a nationwide candlelit ceremony and an impressive fireworks display to light up the night sky.
To commemorate this auspicious occasion, the Royal Thai Navy has organized a Royal Barge Procession on June 12 that will feature 52 barges, including four royal barges, sailing from Wasukri Royal Pier to Wat Arun (Temple of Dawn). King Bhumibol will preside over the performance joined by monarchs, head of states and their representatives from 25 different countries.
Many Bangkok residents have been giving the two days off for the rare chance to take part in and witness this grand event.
"I just want to see the celebrations; it happens once in a lifetime," commented Sasawan.
For the rest of the year, and especially during the month of June, yellow shirts will be worn throughout the country as a symbol of Thai's reverence for their king. The yellow color signifies the day the king was born, Monday.
Orange wristbands with the words 'Long Live The King' are being purchased by many Thais with the proceeds being donated to the King's charities.
"I have the utmost respect for our king," Ms. Bangjaa, 43, from Udon Province said wearing her bright yellow shirt, "Everyone loves the king."
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