Thais Grieve for Late King

BANGKOK, Oct 16 (TNA) - Buildings across the country are decorated with black and white fabric as a symbolic gesture of paying their tributes to HM late King Bhumibol Adulyadej. In Chiang Mai, many temples put on the fabric on their temple walls, some also hang big vinyl banners with a condolences message above their entrances. Inside the main chapels, a portrait of the late King are placed in front of the main Buddha image along with an altar tables set in front. A similar setting is also found at the Yupparaj School, a leading school in the province. In Nong Khai, bordering Laos, many Thai and Lao people who crossed the border checkpoint appeared sombre. Most of them wear black or white to mourn the late King. A Lao man interviewed at a border market on the Thai side said he was saddened by the news and gave condolences to all Thais. A Muslim Thai man in Trang Province told a reporter he still couldn’t believe the news. He said he has been deeply touched by HM’s devotion to improving the lives of Thai people during his reign and strongly felt the loss when he heard of the news. He has collected more than 1,300 pictures of the late King over the past 30 years which are now put on the walls inside his house in commemoration of the late HM. He also told his children to adhere to the late King’s “sufficient economy” philosophy and be loyal to the royal family members. (TNA)