In a significant development from Southeast Asia, Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand passed away at the age of 93, the Thai Royal Household Bureau confirmed on Saturday.
Once the nation’s consort and later a symbol of grace, elegance, and national unity, Sirikit had been in declining health for years. She was admitted to hospital after suffering a bloodstream infection, which ultimately led to her demise.
A formal year-long mourning period has been declared by the royal family, with state officials canceling key obligations including the Thai Prime Minister’s planned trip to the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia.
Legacy & Cultural Impact
Queen Mother Sirikit played a pivotal role in Thailand’s cultural revival and social welfare programs. She championed traditional arts and crafts, especially the revival of Thai silk and local weaving communities.
Her fashion sense earned her international admiration during a 1960 visit to the United States, Time magazine described her as “svelte” and “archfeminist,” while French publications praised her striking elegance.
Beyond aesthetics, she backed numerous rural development, health, and education initiatives cementing her image as a people-centric figure in Thailand’s modern monarchy.