Thailand’s PM invites children to Government House on Children’s Day

Thailand’s prime minister is inviting children to the Government House on this Saturday’s Children’s Day for entertainment, sports, and educational activities. Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha will preside over the event and will personally welcome the kids.

According to Thai PBS World, the prime minister’s deputy secretary-general for political affairs says Prayut will give a guided tour of his office while allowing the kids to take turns sitting in his chair.

The activities will promote “Thainess,” patriotism and the potential of kids. A robot competition, games, micro cars and other green activities under the Bio-Cirular-Green Economy (BCG) concept will be featured. Children can also bring their empty water bottles or cans to exchange for souvenirs at the event.

Meanwhile, the Education Ministry has decided to postpone all other official activities planned to mark National Children’s Day this Saturday. According to a Thai PBS World report, the decision was taken as a result of the rapid spread of the Omicron Covid-19 variant. Education Minister Treenuch Thienthong says the activities are not being cancelled permanently and will go ahead at a later date, but the date depends on the Covid situation.

Each province had its activities planned, including the presentation of certificates and formal award ceremonies. These have also been postponed, according to Treenuch. She says that provinces can go ahead with other activities, provided they comply strictly with disease prevention measures. Provinces that wish to do so must consult with the communicable disease committee and seek permission to go ahead.

Children are advised to wear face masks at such crowded events, both in the capital and elsewhere. Children’s Day is an annual holiday in Thailand that features many events at shopping malls and other attractions. This year the holiday will be this Saturday, January 14, 2023.