Thailand’s Andaman coastal provinces have commemorated the 19th anniversary of the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami which killed thousands in Thailand alone.
In Phang-nga, Ban Nam Khem villagers and relatives of the dead victims participated in the event at the Tsunami Memorial Garden in Takuapha district. Baan Nam Khem is a fishing village where over 1,400 residents were killed in the disaster.
Phang-nga governor Supoj Rodruang Na Nongkhai led the heads of local authorities, community leaders, and relatives of the victims in remembering the victims of the devastating tsunami that occurred on December 26, 2004.
The ceremony is a simple one, consisting of multi-faith ceremonies. The activities aim to make merit for the deceased, with relatives bringing photographs and food for the ceremony.
The governor, along with the people, offers flowers at the memorial wall and observed a moment of silence. This evening, there will be a candlelight vigil to remember those who lost their lives in the catastrophe.
The activities are organized to remind people to be aware of the losses from natural disasters, to prepare and protect themselves and other people in their communities.
Orapin Silapapong, a resident in the Ban Nam Khem fishing village who lost parents and three siblings in the tsunami 19 years ago said feeling of despair was over but she continued to join the merit-making ceremonies for the deceased every year.
Over the years, the local residents have become more knowledgeable and prepared to cope with any natural disaster if it occurs, she added. (TNA)
