Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit Passes Away at 93

Thailand’s Queen Mother Sirikit, one of the country’s most respected and beloved royal figures, passed away on Friday, October 24, 2025, at the age of 93. The Royal Household Bureau confirmed that she died in a Bangkok hospital after suffering from a blood infection since October 17. Despite continuous medical care, her condition did not improve.

Queen Sirikit had largely withdrawn from public life in recent years due to declining health. Her passing marks the end of a remarkable era in Thailand’s modern history.

Early Life and Royal Marriage

Born on August 12, 1932, in Bangkok, Sirikit Kitiyakara came from a noble and aristocratic family connected to the Chakri dynasty. She was the daughter of Prince Nakkhatra Mangkala Kitiyakara, who served as Thailand’s ambassador to France after World War II.

While studying in Paris, Sirikit met King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who was then studying in Switzerland. Their friendship deepened after the king’s car accident, and they married in 1950.

At the coronation that same year, both vowed to “reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.”
They had four children — King Maha Vajiralongkorn, Princess Ubolratana, Princess Sirindhorn, and Princess Chulabhorn.

Her Role in Thailand’s Development

Although often overshadowed by her late husband, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Queen Sirikit carved a significant identity through her humanitarian and development work.

She established numerous royal projects to improve rural livelihoods, reduce poverty, and preserve Thailand’s traditional arts.

Key Initiatives:

• SUPPORT Foundation (1976): Trained villagers in silk weaving, jewelry-making, painting, ceramics, and traditional crafts to generate income.
• Environmental Conservation: Nicknamed the “Green Queen,” she initiated projects like Forest Loves Water and Little House in the Forest to demonstrate the value of forest and water preservation.
• Wildlife Protection: Set up wildlife breeding centers, open zoos, and turtle hatcheries to protect endangered species.

These initiatives helped bridge the gap between rural communities and urban Thailand, fostering economic empowerment and sustainable development.

Controversies and Public Scrutiny

As Thailand experienced decades of political turbulence, including military coups and protests, Queen Sirikit’s role was occasionally viewed as politically significant.
Her presence at the funeral of a protester killed in clashes once sparked debates about the monarchy’s influence in political affairs.

Despite these controversies, her popularity — especially among rural citizens — remained strong, as many viewed her as a symbol of national unity and compassion.