On Tuesday, Bangkok initiated activities to express gratitude and respect for the contributions of elderly members of society.
The events are being staged to commemorate National Elderly Day on April 13, the opening day of the three-day Songkran Festival. During the traditional Thai New Year, people from all across the country return to their hometowns and villages to pay their respects to elders. City governor Chadchart Sittipunt presided over the inauguration ceremony at the Prince Palace Hotel in the Pom Prap Sattru Phai district, where he led the sprinkling of scented water on Buddha figures before pouring water onto elders’ hands as they bestowed blessings in return.
Participants, both young and old, then enjoyed a variety of activities designed specifically for seniors to keep them active and enhance family bonds. According to Chadchart, the city has a policy to improve people’s quality of life by strengthening the institution of the family, which serves as the foundation of society.
“Thailand is becoming an ageing society, and the city recognizes the value of seniors as members of society,” he stated.
“During their lives, senior citizens have worked hard to raise families and contribute to society and the country.” Their commitment deserves to be recognized and thanked so that they can live in society with self-esteem and dignity.”
Chadchart went on to say that the city is committed to providing protection and welfare to the elderly, as well as ensuring that they have a decent quality of life and are enabled to participate in society’s long-term development.
“Today’s activities assist maintain Thai tradition, encourage elders’ involvement in social events, and raise public understanding of the value of senior citizens and the family structure,” he stated.
Every year, the Bangkok Metropolitan Government (BMASocial )’s Development Department organizes National Elderly Day activities during the Songkran Festival week. Older citizens from all 50 Bangkok districts, as well as members of the BMA Pensioner Association, Bangkok Senior Citizen Club Federation, and residents of BMA day centers for seniors in Din Daeng and Bang Khae districts, are among the elderly participants.
