JEDDAH, 8 December 2006 — The Thai Community across Saudi Arabia celebrated their country’s national day on Tuesday night, marking the 60th anniversary of their King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s accession to the throne and his 79th birthday.
A large number of officials, diplomats and businessmen were present at the reception held at the Jeddah InterContinental Hotel.
Mohamed ibn Ahmed Al Tayeb, director general, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah Region, was the guest of honor. Abdulghani ibn Shuwailah, director of protocol department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Makkah Region, and Ezzat K. Mufti, assistant secretary general at the Organization of the Islamic Conference, were among the other officials present.
“The month of December each year is an important period for Thai people, as the whole country celebrates the king’s birthday on Dec. 5,” Thai Consul General Sukasem Yothasamutr said in his address.
Several activities are arranged, especially in the first week of December every year, in honor of the king, who is recognized for his wide-ranging talents, he said, adding that the king was renowned for his expertise in all fields of human endeavor.
“His interests range from the artistic field to sports, agriculture, and even to scientific invention and innovation. From painting, photography, and sculpture to sailboat design and construction, he has demonstrated exceptional ingenuity as a ‘great all-rounder,’ a genuine renaissance man,” the consul general said.
On June 9, 1946, the king acceded to the throne. He is the world’s longest-reigning monarch and has provided leadership, inspiration and wisdom over the years.
Most of his efforts have been directed to improve the lives of his people, especially those in need of assistance in the remotest areas of the country.
The king received the United Nations’ first Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award from UN Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, in May this year.
TIME Magazine in its issue of Nov. 13, 2006 described him as an Asian hero who has inspired the Thai people during his 60-year throne.
Preparations are under way for celebrating the king’s 80th birthday next year. The timetable of celebrations has been set from Dec. 5 this year to the end of December next year.