NAKHON PHANOM, Thailand – Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, accompanied by Prime Minister’s Office Minister Jiraporn Sindhuprai and other Cabinet members, joined residents and local officials in Nakhon Phanom to view a special illuminated boat display held ahead of the second official Mobile Cabinet Meeting this year. The visit also included a ceremony to pay homage to Phaya Si Sattanakharat, a revered symbol of the Mekong River region.
The illuminated boat, built by residents of Tha Uthen district, was assembled from hundreds of bamboo rafts. Unlike the traditional Lai Ruea Fai Festival, where spectators typically see only the glowing patterns from afar, this special event allowed visitors to observe the intricate craftsmanship behind the illuminated structure up close.
The display showcased the community’s skill and collective effort in preserving one of Nakhon Phanom’s most distinctive cultural traditions. The opportunity to view the framework behind the festival’s visual splendor highlighted the dedication and artistry of the local people.
Nakhon Phanom is working to elevate the Lai Ruea Fai Festival into a world-class cultural event, with officials believing that greater international recognition of the illuminated boat procession will boost cultural tourism and support the local economy.
