Walailak University participated in the ceremony marking the memorial day of King Nangklao, also known as Rama III or Phra Maha Chedsadabodin, in 2026 to express loyalty and to honor His Majesty’s profound benevolence and contributions to the nation and the Thai people.
On March 31, 2026, Assistant Professor Dr. Padungsak Suksorad, Vice President for Cooperative Education and Central Administration of Walailak University, together with university personnel, attended the wreath-laying ceremony by presenting a floral tribute before the royal portrait of King Rama III. They also participated in the royal tribute ceremony to respectfully commemorate the immeasurable benevolence of His Majesty. The ceremony was presided over by Somchai Leelanoi, Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat, who led participants in delivering a royal tribute and a formal address honoring the King’s contributions to the Thai people and the nation’s development in many aspects. The event was attended by provincial administrators, heads of government agencies, civil servants, members of the judiciary, military officers, police officers, and representatives from public and private organizations throughout Nakhon Si Thammarat Province. The ceremony took place at the theatre hall of the Nakhon Si Thammarat Provincial Administrative Organization in Mueang District.
King Rama III of the Chakri Dynasty was bestowed with several honorary titles, including “Father of Thai Trade,” “Father of Thai Maritime Commerce,” and “Father of Thai Traditional Medicine,” in recognition of his remarkable vision and achievements in economic development and maritime trade. Even before ascending the throne, while holding the royal title of Prince, he had already demonstrated exceptional ability in commerce and economic management. During his reign, he actively promoted both domestic and international trade, strengthening the country’s economy and generating substantial revenue for the royal treasury.
In addition, the King paid great attention to the well-being of his people, particularly in agriculture and livelihoods. He encouraged various forms of economic development and implemented policies that enhanced the prosperity of the nation. His leadership in governance and military affairs also contributed significantly to maintaining the country’s sovereignty and independence during a time when Thailand faced increasing pressures from foreign powers. Another important legacy was the royal reserve known as the “Red Purse Fund,” which consisted of the King’s personal wealth set aside for the benefit of the nation in the future. This reserve was later used to help safeguard the country’s sovereignty during critical periods, demonstrating the King’s far-sighted dedication to national stability.
In the fields of religion and education, King Rama III made significant contributions by promoting Buddhism and encouraging the preservation and dissemination of knowledge. He ordered the inscription of various disciplines at Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimon Mangkhalaram Ratchaworamahawihan, commonly known as Wat Pho. These inscriptions covered a wide range of subjects, including traditional Thai medicine, literature, history, astronomy, and other branches of knowledge. As a result, the temple has been regarded as Thailand’s first “open university,” where people could learn and apply knowledge in their daily lives. Due to his immense contributions, the Thai government and people later erected a royal statue in his honor at the Maha Chedsadabodin Pavilion Plaza in front of Wat Ratchanatdaram. In 1998, the government officially bestowed upon him the royal title “Phra Maha Chedsadabodin” to honor his wisdom and remarkable contributions to the country.
Walailak University’s participation in this ceremony reflects its commitment to honoring the legacy of Thailand’s revered monarchs and preserving the nation’s historical and cultural values. It also helps foster a sense of loyalty, national pride, and historical awareness among university personnel and the broader community.
Information provided by: Division of Correspondence and General Affairs, Walailak University, March 2026