PRACHUAP KHIRI KHAN, May 5— His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej has appeared and presided over a ceremony to mark the 64th anniversary of his coronation at Klai Kangwon Palace in Hua Hin.
At about 10.15am, the world-longest reigning monarch along with members of the royal family left Piemsuk Palace for Rajpracha Samakhom Pavilion via Phetchkasem Road to attend the ceremony on this auspicious occasion. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit however did not accompany the King to the royal occasion.
As the royal motorcade were passing by, huge crowds of well-wishers, most donning yellow shirts in honour of the monarch, were delighted to catch a glimpse of the revered King, waving national and royal flags and repeatedly chanting “Love Live the King.”
Upon arrival at Rajpracha Samakhom Pavilion at about 10.25am, the King and royal family members performed religious rites and a merit-making ceremony. The monarch however did not deliver an address to the public.
A 21-gun salute was fired in honour of the King.
After the ceremony at around 11.05am, His Majesty the King and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn left the pavilion and returned to Piemsuk Palace.
His Majesty the King Bhumibol Adulyadej was crowned on May 5, 1950— four years after he actually assumed the throne in 1946. The coronation ceremony was performed at the Grand Palace in accordance with ancient royal traditions.
At the ceremony, His Majesty uttered the traditional proclamation: “We shall reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.”
His activities and engagements throughout more than 60 years of his reign have abundantly confirmed this historic oath.
To celebrate Coronation Day and express their love and respect for the monarch, Thais from all walks of life across the country are performing religious ceremonies and conducting other relevant activities at designated venues. (MCOT online news)
