Assumption University of Thailand (AU) came together in solemn remembrance of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great on Thursday, 22 October 2026, as well-attended ceremonies at its Hua Mak and Suvarnabhumi campuses brought students, faculty, staff, and university community members together to honor the life and enduring legacy of Thailand’s revered ninth monarch.
Organized by the Office of Thai Art and Culture, Student Affairs, the commemorations formed part of the university’s continuing tradition of paying tribute to His Majesty, whose 70-year reign was marked by lifelong dedication to the welfare of the Thai people.
The morning ceremony took place at Salle d’ Expo, A Building, Hua Mak Campus, where members of the AU community gathered for a wreath-laying tribute and remembrance address. The ceremony concluded with 89 seconds of silence, offering participants a moment of reflection and gratitude.
A second ceremony was held during the afternoon at the King’s Room, first floor of the Cathedral of Learning Building, Suvarnabhumi Campus. The gathering followed the same commemorative programme, including a wreath-laying tribute, remembrance address, and 89-second silence.
Yellow attire, traditionally associated with His Majesty’s birth on a Monday, was encouraged as a symbol of respect and remembrance.
A Legacy That Shaped a Nation
The university’s commemorations took on particular significance in 2026, which marked the tenth anniversary of His Majesty’s passing on 13 October 2016.
The date has been observed nationally as Navamindra Maharaj Day since receiving its official designation in 2023, honoring the ninth monarch of the Chakri Dynasty and his extraordinary contributions to Thailand.
Born on 5 December 1927 in Cambridge, Massachusetts, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej ascended the throne in 1946 and was crowned in 1950. At his coronation, he delivered his historic first royal command:
“We shall reign with righteousness for the benefit and happiness of the Siamese people.”
Those words came to define a reign devoted to improving the lives of the Thai people.
His Majesty traveled extensively throughout Thailand, often visiting remote communities to understand the challenges faced by farmers, villagers, and families. His royal initiatives addressed water management, agriculture, education, environmental conservation, and rural development, helping improve livelihoods across the country.
His Majesty’s Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy became another lasting contribution. Built upon moderation, reasonableness, and resilience, supported by knowledge and morality, the philosophy encouraged balanced decision-making and responsible development. Its principles remained relevant to education, business, community development, and environmental stewardship.
Beyond his development work, His Majesty was an accomplished musician, photographer, and innovator whose wide-ranging interests reflected a lifelong commitment to learning and creative problem-solving.
A Continuing Connection with Assumption University
For Assumption University, remembrance of His Majesty carried a special historical connection.
The university’s Hua Mak Campus has long preserved tributes to the late monarch. Its Gate of Wisdom, constructed in 1990, commemorated His Majesty’s 60th birthday anniversary in 1987, while also recognizing the royal visit of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in November 1990.
These physical reminders of royal history have remained part of the university’s identity, connecting generations of students with Thailand’s cultural heritage and traditions of public service.
The 2026 ceremonies also reflected the wider national observances held throughout Thailand and by Thai diplomatic missions overseas, where communities gathered to remember His Majesty’s compassion, dedication, and contributions to national development.
Through the ceremonies, Assumption University reaffirmed its respect for His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great and the values of responsibility, service, wisdom, and compassion that characterized his life.
As the university community observed its moments of silence, the occasion served as a reminder that His Majesty’s legacy continued to inspire new generations to contribute meaningfully to Thailand and the well-being of its people.
WRITER : THE AU LIBRARY
More Information about Office of Thai Art and Culture, please visit:
Website: https://sa.au.edu/our-offices/office-of-thai-art-and-culture/
Email: SA.OVP@AU.EDU
Tel: (+66)-2783-2222 Ext. 2253
