In Phuket, officials yesterday highlighted King Bhumibol’s lifelong dedication to environmental stewardship by revisiting ‘Teaching No 9’, drawn from his 1983 Royal Speech at the Kasetsart University graduation ceremony. The teaching, summarised by local authorities, emphasises the concept of ‘Environmental Thinking Leading to Sustainability’.
King Bhumibol stressed the central role of soil as the basis of food production, farmer livelihoods, and a balanced ecosystem. For decades, he personally researched and implemented solutions to soil degradation, integrating scientific approaches with local knowledge to restore soil fertility.
“Soil is a crucial factor in human survival. If soil deteriorates, yields decrease, and farmers suffer. Therefore, soil conservation is a foundation for a stable life for people across the country,” His Majesty said in the speech.
His contributions to soil science were recognised globally. The United Nations officially designated December 5 as World Soil Day in 2013, following a proposal led by Thailand and supported by the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation.
The date was chosen to honour the late King, acknowledged internationally as a ‘Humanitarian Soil Scientist’. Events held around the world today highlight his work in sustainable soil management, including innovative projects such as the use of vetiver grass to combat erosion.
The King Bhumibol World Soil Day Award was later established by Thailand and the FAO to recognise outstanding global achievements in soil conservation.
Phuket officials yesterday also paid tribute to the legacy of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother, by noting her pivotal role in founding the Sai Jai Thai Foundation. The foundation was established under the royal initiative on April 2, 1975, with Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn appointed as its President from the outset.
The foundation provides lifelong support to war veterans and their families, particularly those injured or disabled while serving the nation. It offers vocational training in crafts including leatherwork, sewing, woodworking and painting, enabling members to earn income through the sale of high-quality handmade products. All proceeds are directed back into the foundation to continue providing welfare and employment assistance.
King Bhumibol passed away on Oct 13, 2016 at the age of 88, after a 70-year reign. Queen Sirikit passed away on Oct 24 this year, aged 93.
Commemorations held today are expected to be especially solemn as the nation continues to observe a period of mourning for the late Queen Mother.