Bangkok:The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Mr. Arsit Sampanrat, played a significant role in leading the royal barge procession during the Kathina Robe Presentation Ceremony at Wat Arun Ratchawararam. The event was marked by historical traditions, with Mr. Arsit participating in his capacity as Prime Minister.
According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Interior released a photograph of Mr. Arsit seated prominently at the front of the Royal Barge Procession. The image was accompanied by a message and a poem commemorating the memorable experience of this historic event.
The procession took place on November 6, 1969, at 335 PM, with Mr. Arsit aboard the "Kanya Ruea Thong Babin," the lead barge in the procession. This traditional oiled barge, adorned with a gilded, carved spire, measures 32.08 meters in length, has a width of 1.88 meters, and is 64 centimeters deep. It was crewed by 39 oarsmen, 1 captain, 2 helmsmen, 1 flag bearer, and 1 signalman. The "Thong Ba Bin" barge is paired with the "Thong Khwan Fa" barge, which carried the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, who participated as the Minister of Defence, adhering to ancient royal customs.