HM The King in Ceremonial Attire
On December 5th, Thailand celebrates the birthday of their beloved King, Rama IX. He is the world's longest reigning monarch, having ruled since 1946. His birthday is also considered Father's Day.
Yellow flag (the King's birthday color): the middle depicts the Royal Cypher, topped by the Great Crown of Victory, in between is the Thai symbol for Aum (Buddhist symbol meaning "pure spirit").
The King has a special place in the heart of Thais. He is the father of his country, head of state, head of the military and defender of the Buddhist faith. His portrait is found everywhere in public but also in almost every private home. The Thai people sincerely revere him for the position he holds but also for the many good things he has done for his people.
The King has personally initiated nearly 2,000 projects in such areas as rural development, agriculture, land and water resources, public health and education all resulting in benefits to a great many Thais.
The Monarch is also concerned about the environment. He has been particularly concerned that the people have a steady supply of water for consumption and farming. To quote HM: "To preserve watersheds for eternity, it is important that we maintain and replant forests in watershed areas." As a result, the King's reforestation projects can be found throughout the kingdom.
HM King at His Coronation in 1950
The King regards agriculture as the most important of all occupations and has helped poor farmers to practice sustainable methods to ensure their success without harming the environment. He has discouraged the use of artificial fertilizers and pesticides, instead urging farmers to grow plants that can be made into insecticides and to use natural fertilizers.
Probably his best achievement in soil conservation was his idea to introduce vetiver grass, which provides a protective barrier against erosion. The grass also helps store nitrogen, hold moisture in the soil and prevents the leaching of pollutants into the water table.
Painting of HM Queen Sirikit & HM King Bhumibol
King Bhumibol is an advocate of democracy, self-sufficiency and empowerment -- once advising public officials, "Go to the people. Listen to them. Learn from the locals."
The King has a great ability to inspire people. At one of his Rural Development Centers in Hua Hong Krai, a junior government official once remarked, "Other high-ranking officials who come to visit our center mostly pay attention to appearances, such as the height of the trees or the look of the landscape.”
“When I saw the King kneeling down on the muddy ground to admire the rich soil, I knew our country has got the best and most resourceful leader. And I will continue to work for him no
matter what.”
Billboard Wishing HM the King a Happy Birthday
Click The Links Below For More Information
A Brief Biography of HM the King
More on the King and the Royal Family of Thailand
The King's Work to Help Poor Farmers
The Jazzy King
A Brief Biography of HM the King
More on the King and the Royal Family of Thailand
The King's Work to Help Poor Farmers
The Jazzy King
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