Chiang rai: His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen inaugurated the royal monument to His Royal Highness Prince Mahidol Adulyadej and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn at Mae Fah Luang University, marking a significant event in Chiang Rai Province.
According to Thai News Agency, the inauguration ceremony took place following the arrival of Their Majesties at Mae Fah Luang Chiang Rai Airport. They were welcomed by Mr. Chuchip Pongchai, Governor of Chiang Rai Province, alongside prominent figures including the Chief Judge of Region 5, the Commander of the 3rd Army Area, and the Commander of the Provincial Police Region 5. Heads of government agencies in the region were also present to receive Their Majesties, who then traveled to Mae Fah Luang University Medical Center Hospital.
Upon their arrival at the hospital, His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen were greeted by a diverse group of individuals, including government officials, judges, military and police personnel, university faculty, students, and residents from various ethnic communities. The ceremony included lighting incense and candles at the golden altar before the Phra Phuttha Navarat Bophit Buddha image, with blessings offered by the presiding monk.
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn played a key role in the event, inaugurating the Royal Monument of His Royal Highness Prince Mahidol Adulyadej Vikrom and Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra. This monument, initiated by the 100th Anniversary of Her Royal Highness Princess Srinagarindra Foundation in partnership with Mae Fah Luang University, honors the royal contributions of Prince Mahidol Adulyadej, known as "the Father of Modern Thai Medicine" and "the Father of Thai Public Health," and Princess Srinagarindra, recognized as "The Mother of Public Health in Thailand" and "The Mother of Dentistry in Thailand."
The bronze statue, twice the size of life and crafted by sculptor Mr. Chamnan Kaewchanthong, is prominently displayed in front of the Mae Fah Luang University Medical Center Hospital building. The university itself serves as a tribute to the royal aspiration of "Forest Planting, Human Development" initiated by Her Majesty Queen Sri Savangavadhana, continuing the legacy of fostering education and health services for all.
In a gesture of goodwill, Their Majesties commanded the Royal Medical Corps of the Royal Household to distribute medicated oils, cool towels, and royal food to those gathered to welcome and honor them.