Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, passed away peacefully at 21:21 ICT on 24 October 2025, at the age of 93, according to an announcement by the Thai Royal Household Bureau. She had been hospitalised at King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital in Bangkok since 7 September 2019. On 17 October 2025, she developed a bloodstream infection (sepsis) and her condition gradually worsened despite medical efforts.
Life and legacy of service
Born on 12 August 1932 in Bangkok, Sirikit Kitiyakara was the daughter of Prince Nakkhatra Mangala and Mom Luang Bua; her name means “Glory of Kitiyakara.” She married His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) in 1950, shortly before his coronation. Her reign as queen consort spanned from 28 April 1950 until the king’s death in 2016, after which she held the title of Queen Mother.
Over the decades, Queen Sirikit became widely known and deeply respected for her philanthropic and development efforts in Thailand:
- championing rural development, promoting traditional crafts and supporting the national silk industry.
- serving as honorary president of the Thai Red Cross and initiating projects on environmental conservation and community empowerment.
- symbolising dignity, culture and modern-Thailand diplomacy, gaining acclaim abroad for her style and poise.
A nation begins mourning
Following the announcement, King King Maha Vajiralongkorn ordered that the Queen Mother lie in state at the Dusit Maha Prasat Throne Hall in the Grand Palace and that a royal funeral be arranged with the highest honours under tradition. He also granted a one-year period of mourning for members of the royal family and royal household. Government offices have been asked to fly flags at half-mast for 30 days and the private sector to adjust events in line with mourning.
What it means for Thailand
Queen Sirikit’s passing marks the end of an era for the Chakri Dynasty and Thai public life. She spanned eras of rapid change: from post-war Thailand through industrialisation, political upheavals and globalisation. Her death will resonate deeply in both the urban centres and the rural heartland, where her outreach efforts were particularly honoured.
Her legacy also raises introspective questions for Thailand about the monarchy’s cultural, social and symbolic role in a changing country. Observers note that her life reflected continuity in a nation that has frequently undergone political shocks.
Key moments to watch ahead
- The official schedule for her lying-in-state and funeral rites, including any public involvement in the mourning process.
- How the mourning period affects national and regional events, including ASEAN engagements and domestic ceremonies.
- Reflections on her initiatives in rural development, environment and women’s empowerment — including how they will be carried forward.
- Any statements or memorials by regional governments, international partners and civil society recognising her contributions.
In summary
Queen Sirikit was more than a royal by birth or marriage; she became an enduring figure of national dignity, social outreach and cultural ambassadorship. Her passing at 93 invites not only national mourning but also a moment for Thailand to reflect on the values she embodied: unity, service and tradition in a rapidly modernising world. Her absence will be felt; her legacy will likely shape Thailand’s path in profound but quiet ways.
