a royal tribute bangkok airways honours His Majesty the King of Thailand on his Diamond Jubilee
Bhumibol Adulyadej was auspiciously named by His Majesty King Prajadhipok, Rama VII. The name Bhumibol (Strength of the Land) seemed to hint at the all-important role that the young prince was to take up in the future. Eighteen years later, on 9 June 1946, he succeeded to the throne of the Kingdom of Thailand as His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the ninth monarch of the Royal House of Chakri.
The year 2006 marks the 60th anniversary of His Majesty’s accession, the Diamond Jubilee of his reign – a rare occasion not only for the country, but also the world.
Since taking his place on the throne, His Majesty the King has firmly adhered to the Ten Guiding Principles for a King, defined as the virtues of a righteous ruler. All royal activities are meant to bring maximum benefits to the people; and peace and happiness to the land.
These principles are: Dana – giving help to those who need help; Sila – self-conduct; Paricaga – giving up something of lesser use; Ajava – straightness; Maddava – gentleness; Tapa – perseverance; Akkodha – non-anger; Avihimsa – not causing injury; Khanti – endurance; and Avirodhana – no wrong-doing.
His Majesty sets himself as a model, living in strict accordance to these principles. The Office of the Civil Service Commission has compiled the same list for government officials to follow in their capacity as the King’s servants, and for people of all professions and walks of life to follow in the royal footsteps.
More importantly, it has become clear to all Thais and those interested in Thailand that His Majesty has worked tirelessly for the well-being of his subjects – especially the underprivileged in remote areas all over the country – throughout the past six decades. His compassion and keen concerns extend indiscriminately and unreservedly to everyone.
His Majesty the King’s activities are diverse and emphasise the need for all sectors to cooperate in the development of Thailand.
In a royal speech delivered at a garden party held at Sivalai Gardens on 8 December 1968, His Majesty said, in part: “One should remember that it is necessary to assist each other to improve stability and progress for the nation.”
Presently, close to 3,000 royally-initiated projects have been implemented in accordance with His Majesty’s philosophy and ideals. These extend across education, environment, public health, welfare, social development, water sources, and irrigation systems. The underlying belief is that development should take place in accordance with the condition of each locality, using available raw materials and simple, economical plans, while combining all projects harmoniously.
Apart from the cooperation and unity of those involved in the royally-initiated projects, a major contributing factor to their success has been the thorough and practical working method employed by His Majesty.
All Thais are well aware of the “Sufficiency Economy Philosophy” supported by His Majesty which serves as a guidance for the country’s economic and social developments, especially in times of crisis. For over 25 years, His Majesty has emphasised development based on sufficiency, moderation, economising, rationalisation, and the creation of social immunity for the vulnerable. To ensure survival in times of crisis and to stand firm against the strong tide of globalisation, he has cautioned Thais to approach the process of change equipped with adequate knowledge and within the framework of good morality.
With His Majesty as the beacon of hope and guiding light, the Thai people stand united and ready to cooperate in order to bring about stability and progress for the nation.
