The Kingdom of Thailand has been plunged into mourning following the announcement of Queen Mother Sirikit Kitiyakara's passing at the age of 92. The royal matriarch, who served as queen consort during her husband King Bhumibol Adulyadej's record-breaking 70-year reign, died peacefully in Bangkok on Wednesday.
As mother to the current monarch, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, and grandmother to the heir apparent, her death marks the end of an era for the Thai royal family. The palace confirmed her passing occurred at 5.14pm local time at the Siriraj Hospital, where she had been receiving medical care.
A Life of Royal Service
Born on August 12, 1932, Her Majesty dedicated over seven decades to royal duties alongside King Bhumibol, becoming one of the most visible and active consorts in Thai history. During her husband's reign, she established numerous charitable foundations and became renowned for her patronage of Thai silk and traditional arts.
"She was the strength behind the throne," noted a royal historian. "Her work in rural development and cultural preservation touched millions of Thai lives."
National Mourning Period Declared
The Thai government has announced a one-year official mourning period, with flags to be flown at half-mast for 30 days. The palace statement described the Queen Mother as having "passed away peacefully" after years of declining health that had limited her public appearances.
Her legacy includes:
- Establishment of the SUPPORT Foundation promoting Thai handicrafts
- Extensive humanitarian work across rural Thailand
- Patronage of numerous cultural and educational institutions
- Service as regent during periods of the King's monastic retreats
Transition to a New Royal Era
The Queen Mother's passing comes as Thailand continues to navigate the transition from her husband's historic reign to that of their son, King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who ascended the throne in 2016. Her death represents the closing of a significant chapter in Thailand's modern monarchy.
Condolences have begun pouring in from international leaders and royal families worldwide, recognising her decades of service to the Thai people and her role as a stabilizing figure during times of political change in Southeast Asia's second-largest economy.
