Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother has long been a symbol of boundless compassion and unwavering dedication to the Thai people.
For decades, she stood beside His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, accompanying him on royal visits to communities across the country – no matter how remote or difficult the terrain. Her Majesty consistently supported His Majesty’s initiatives, spearheading development projects aimed at alleviating hardship and improving the quality of life for citizens.
Having witnessed the living conditions of the people firsthand, Her Majesty developed a resolute commitment to addressing social and economic challenges. This led to the establishment of numerous royal projects across various sectors, including environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture and cultural preservation.
Forest conservation projects
Among Her Majesty’s most notable contributions were the ‘Pa Rak Nam’ (Forest Loves Water) projects, launched in Sakon Nakhon province to combat drought and restore degraded forests in the Northeast. The reforestation effort began at Phu Pha Lek mountain near Kham Juang reservoir in Song Dao district, later expanding to other Pa Rak Nam projects including:
Tambon Khok Si, Sawang Daen Din district, Sakon Nakhon province
Ban Kut Na Kham in tambon Charoen Sin, Charoen Sin district, Sakon Nakhon province
Hat Sai Yai, Prachuap Khiri Khan province
Jaloh Satoh village in tambon Kaluwor, Muang district of Narathiwat province.
‘Small Home in the Big Forest’ initiative
Launched on March 4, 1991, the ‘Small Home in the Big Forest’ project was born from Her Majesty’s visit to Huai Lo Duk village in tambon Mae Tuen, and tambon Mon Chong in Om Koi district of Chiang Mai province in northern Thailand.
Observing the destructive impact of shifting cultivation, deforestation and wildlife poaching, Her Majesty initiated a programme to rehabilitate degraded forest areas and promote sustainable living.
Her Majesty also initiated the ‘Forest Protection for Life’ project, aimed at fostering coexistence between humans and forests. These efforts include wildlife breeding and conservation programmes, restoration of native fish species, sea turtle preservation and pearl oyster cultivation.
Revitalising traditional crafts and livelihoods
During her extensive travels to rural communities, Her Majesty observed the economic vulnerability of farmers affected by unpredictable weather, floods and droughts. Recognising the need for alternative income sources, she advocated for supplementary occupations to stabilise rural livelihoods.
Her Majesty also took note of the unique craftsmanship practised in villages – traditional arts passed down through generations, often at risk of disappearing. To preserve this cultural heritage, she initiated training programmes in various handicrafts and established the Foundation for the Promotion of Supplementary Occupations and Related Techniques of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand (Support Foundation) on July 21, 1976.
The Support Foundation has played a pivotal role in empowering rural communities, promoting self-reliance and preserving Thailand’s rich artisanal traditions.
Through her unwavering devotion and tireless efforts, Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother has touched every corner of the kingdom and every aspect of Thai life.