Bangkok: Fifteen days of mourning will be observed, but activities can proceed as normal. A moment of silence will be observed before the start of any event. The Prime Minister revealed that a special Cabinet meeting was held to prepare for the royal funeral rites for Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha. Each ministry and agency was instructed to oversee public participation in the ceremonies. The public is to continue their lives as normal, observing a 15-day mourning period. Concerts and other events can proceed as usual, following tradition of observing a moment of silence before commencement. Ministers traveling abroad were instructed to keep trips brief and focus on relevant work.
According to Thai News Agency, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul officially announced after a special cabinet meeting that the sole agenda item was preparation for the royal ceremonies. He instructed each relevant ministry and agency to provide the best possible support and care for the public attending the events.
Regarding the guidelines for mourning, the Prime Minister stated that they are in accordance with the statement from the Royal Household. Regarding the Prime Minister's overseas trips, he stated that scheduled engagements with various foreign leaders will proceed as planned. He also informed the Cabinet and relevant agencies that any overseas trips should focus on the core mission, cut out non-essential details, and keep trips as short as possible.
Regarding guidelines for people's lives, the Prime Minister stated that in terms of daily life, livelihoods, and income generation, he believes people should continue living as normal. There is nothing unusual. It is a matter of acknowledging the grief; everyone is already grieving and deeply saddened. However, in terms of performing duties, daily life, and earning a living, he asked that things remain normal. He expressed confidence that everyone knows the appropriate course of action during the mourning period. The Royal Household's statement clearly indicates a 15-day mourning period, which overlaps with other periods. The government, in particular, observes its mourning period coinciding with the passing of Her Majesty Queen Mother Sirikit.
The Prime Minister also addressed the concert arrangements, stating that everything is proceeding as normal, just as it was during the time of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. He explained that it's a customary practice for almost all events; there's no compulsion or law mandating it. Whether it's a sporting event, a concert, or a conference, the event will begin with a moment of silence. By doing so, it signifies that everyone is behaving appropriately.