GoUni Tips - News

It has been devastatingly sad and mournful period for Thai people after the announcement of the King Rama IX's death last Thursday.. Although the UK is miles away from Thailand, Thai people who currently live here, as well as the Brits themselves, did not forget to show their condolences to our beloved King. GoUni brings together the important events that have happened/are happening as a result of King Bhumibol's passing. 

The Reports in UK News

Not so surprise, many UK news outlets have reported many coverages on the eternal departure of King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Not only the fact that His Majesty is the world's longest monarch, but an abundantly affection of his subjects makes him a globally well-respected leader. You can read the reports about the King's death on various news organisations, including BBC, The Guardian, and the The Telegraph .

What has happened?

Many important UK public figures have expressed their condolences on the King Bhumibol's death, given a good diplomatic relationship between The United Kingdom and Thailand.

Her Majesty The Queen Elizabeth II sends her condolence to Her Majesty The Queen Sirikit of Thailand.

A report from Thairath on Monday 17th October stated that Queen Elizabeth II has sent her deep regret to Queen Sirikit and Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn on the death of King Bhumibol.

The royal family of Britain and Thailand have met each other in several occasions. In 1960, the King and the Queen of Thailand have paid a visit to Britain on the occasion of the State visit.

What's more, Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth also participated in the celebrations of King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 60th anniversary of accession ceremony.

Apart from that, UK politicians also expressed their regrets on the King's eternal departure. One of them were Prime Minister Theresa May who gave a statement following the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand.

"I would like to express my sincere personal condolences to the Royal Family and the people of Thailand on the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej."

"His Majesty guided the Kingdom of Thailand with dignity, dedication and vision throughout his life. He will be greatly missed."

"Our thoughts are with the people of Thailand at this difficult time."

UK Foreign Secretary, Boris Johnson, also sent his message of condolence.

"I am greatly saddened to hear of the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. He was greatly respected at home and around the globe for his wisdom and dedication. I offer the people of Thailand and the Royal family my profound sympathy at this sad time."

Furthermore, UK government buildings also flew their flags at half mast for the passing of King Bhumibol from Thursday 13th to Friday 14th October.

Aside from political figures, football club owned by our very own Thai Leicester City players and staff paused for a minute’s silence before first team training last Friday to pay their respects to the late King of Thailand.

Leicester City were given the Royal seal of approval by King Bhumibol Adulyadej after being bought by Thai billionaire Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha in 2011.

What else is happening?

The Royal Thai Embassy in London is arranging a public entrance especially for people who wish to sign their condolences on the King's death until the end of October. So far, many Thai people, wore black, came to sign their names on the book in reserve and silent manner. Some wrote notes expressing their feelings and memories they have of the King.

Wat Buddhapadipa alongside other Thai temples in England and Northern Ireland will perform a Buddhist pray for funeral in tribute to the King Bhumibol's death. The praying lasts 7 days (from 14th October to 20th October, 2016.)

Many UK Universities' international offices has sent their condolences to Thai students who are currently studying there. De Montfort University, GoUni partner university also sent their deepest regrets to GoUni's team members.

Many positve reactions given by UK various sectors affirm the powerful influence that King Bhumibol had to the people around the world. Today, Kingdom of Thailand grieves for many reasons. We lost one of the most important cornerstones of the Thai Society, the greatest King and the longest monarch in the world. But ultimately what matters the most to the Thai people is the fact that we lost the "Father" of the nation who helped their children tirelessly throughout his entire reigning period. Though we might not see him anymore, but he will stay in our hearts forever....❤️

Photo Credit: @Noppatjak and @Soyoso