Anthem for King wins cabinet nod

The cabinet has approved the royal anthem Sadudee Jom Racha written for His Majesty the King, according to the Prime Minister’s Office.

PM’s Office permanent secretary Patcharaporn Inseeyong said the anthem may be played at royal or state ceremonies, or at events organised to express loyalty to or honour His Majesty.

Ms Patcharaporn said the song and the lyrics may be used as material for educational purposes at state or privately run institutions, adding the song is to instil a sense of gratitude to the King and honour His Majesty.

The permanent secretary said the royal anthem may be played at events organised by the private sector though they must be occasions fitting to pay tribute to His Majesty. The song may not be played at private events or those associated with local or community customs.

Ms Patcharaporn said the government had assigned the Culture Ministry to create the royal anthem. The ministry invited experts in language and music to compose the lyrics and melody before the song was presented to the cabinet.

The royal anthem will be played at the official celebration of the King’s birthday on Saturday at Sanam Luang and at venues around the country.

Meanwhile, the Royal Household Bureau announced the closures of the Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha during the upcoming long weekend.

The temple will be closed while tickets to the Grand Palace will be sold from 8.30am to noon on Friday, which is Asarnha Bucha Day.

The temple and the palace will close on Saturday, which marks both the King’s birthday and Buddhist Lent.