Thai King and Queen Honor Founder of Modern Medicine
The Thai King and Queen honored King Mongkut, founder of modern medicine in Thailand, during Mahidol Day ceremonies at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok, laying wreaths and paying respects at his statue alongside earlier monarchs.
At 17:27 on September 24, 2569, the King and Queen proceeded by royal vehicle to lay wreaths and pay respects at the statue of King Mongkut the Great, the Father of Modern Medicine and Public Health, on Mahidol Day 2569 at Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok Noi District, Bangkok. Upon arrival, they were received by leading medical faculty and officials including Professor Abhichai Assavamongkul, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital; Professor Piyamit Sritara, Rector of Mahidol University; Professor Yongyut Sirivattanakul, Director of Siriraj Hospital; and Admiral Pairot Fueangjan, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy.
The King and Queen then proceeded to the statue of King Mongkut the Great, where they laid wreaths, lit candles and incense, and paid respect with a bow. They subsequently visited the Siriraj 100-Year Hall to pay respects at statues of earlier Thai monarchs, including King Rama IV, King Rama V, and King Bhumibol Adulyadej, laying flowers, wreaths, candles, and incense at each.
Following the ceremony, the King granted an audience to Professor Abhichai Assavamongul to acknowledge supporters and benefactors of the Faculty of Medicine at Siriraj Hospital, presenting them with commemorative plaques and gifts. The Dean then presented gifts to the King and the Queen on behalf of the faculty.
September 24 is observed annually as Mahidol Day to commemorate King Mongkut the Great, honored by Thai people as the Father of Modern Medicine and Public Health in Thailand. He established the foundations of Thailand's medical and public health systems, dedicating his life, knowledge, and personal wealth to the health and well-being of the Thai people.
