Phuket marks Queen Suthida’s birthday with release of sea turtles and bamboo sharks
Phuket held a royal volunteer ceremony in Wichit to honor Queen Suthida’s 48th birthday, releasing 49 sea turtles and 20 bamboo sharks into the Andaman Sea.
Phuket Province held a royal volunteer activity in Wichit Subdistrict to honor Her Royal Majesty Queen Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana on the occasion of her 48th birthday, releasing 49 sea turtles and 20 bamboo sharks into the Andaman Sea.
The ceremony took place on the beach in front of the Royal Thai Navy’s Third Area Command. Phuket Governor Nirut Phongsitthithawon presided over the event, joined by Vice Admiral Weerudom Muangjeen, commander of the Third Naval Area, and Police Major General Sinlert Sukhum, Phuket Provincial Police Commander. Senior officials, private sector representatives and hundreds of royal volunteers also attended.
Proceedings began with floral tributes and blessings before the Queen’s portrait, followed by a collective royal volunteer oath, “We do good deeds with our hearts.” The ceremony was presented as both a tribute to the Queen and a public service activity.
Governor Nirut said the release of marine animals was intended not only to honor Her Royal Majesty but also to support conservation. He said the activity helped build public awareness of marine conservation while contributing to the preservation of natural resources.
According to the province, the release of the turtles and bamboo sharks was aimed at reinforcing biodiversity and supporting the balance of the marine ecosystem in the Andaman Sea. The event continued despite intermittent rain, with volunteers in royal volunteer uniforms taking part.
The Phuket ceremony was part of a broader program of volunteer activities being held nationwide to celebrate the Queen’s birthday. In Phuket, officials said it also reflected the province’s commitment to preserving its coastal environment and strengthening cooperation among government agencies, civil society and local communities.
