Phuket Muslims mourn the loss of His Majesty

PHUKET: The Sheikhul Islam Office of Thailand released guidelines on Friday detailing how the Buddhist nation’s Muslims should pay their respects following the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej.

The office’s letter comes as the nation of 67 million mourns the passing of the world’s longest reigning monarch (story here).

“Since we are Muslims, we cannot dress in black and white like the Buddhists do,” said Phuket Islamic Committee Secretary Piyadet Chuachalard.

“We can attend the ceremonies and write our name down as mourners at Provincial Hall, but we cannot join in the ceremonies.”

The letter from Sheikhul Islam Office states that Thailand’s Muslims should:

1. Dress normally, but avoid colorful clothing.

2. Listen to the Imam’s sermon and show gratitude for HM the King’s goodness every Friday in the mosque before prayer.

3. Review HM the King’s work every Friday.

4. Visit exhibitions about HM the King’s work.

5. Follow HM the King’s teachings and advice in order to ensure a bright future for themselves and the country.

Mr Piyadet said that individuals may recite a dua (supplication to God) for HM the King after the sermon and during prayer.

“We are thinking of hosting an event where all of Phuket’s Muslims can come together to recite a dua for HM the King,” he said. “We will release more information when we know the specifics.”

— Kongleaphy Keam