Launch of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Ramadan programs in Thailand 1447
In an atmosphere of faith reflecting the depth of fraternal ties, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, represented by the Religious Attaché at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Bangkok, launched the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques' Ramadan programs for the year 1447 AH. The official ceremony was held in the Thai capital on Monday evening, the 5th of Ramadan, in the presence of high-ranking officials, including the Speaker of the Thai Parliament, Mr. Muhammad Noor Maata, and the Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to Thailand, Mr. Abdulrahman bin Abdulaziz Al-Suhaibani.
Strengthening Saudi-Thai relations through religious diplomacy
The implementation of these programs comes within the context of the remarkable development and rapid growth witnessed in relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Kingdom of Thailand, especially after the restoration of full diplomatic relations between the two countries. These Ramadan initiatives are part of the Kingdom's soft power and its global mission to serve Islam and Muslims, contributing to strengthening bridges of civilizational and cultural communication. These programs are not limited to relief efforts alone, but extend to include spiritual and educational aspects, reflecting the Saudi leadership's keenness to address the needs of Muslims in Southeast Asia.
Details of Ramadan programs and distribution mechanism
The program launched by the Ministry includes several key initiatives, most notably the "Iftar for Fasting People" project targeting thousands of families, and the "Gift of Premium Dates" program, a symbol of Saudi generosity. It also includes the distribution of copies of the Holy Quran published by the King Fahd Complex for Printing the Holy Quran. Furthermore, the program involves sending imams to lead the Taraweeh and Qiyam prayers during the nights of Ramadan, creating a unique spiritual atmosphere in Thai mosques and Islamic centers.
The Ambassador of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, Mr. Abdulrahman Al-Suhaibani, explained that these programs are implemented according to a precise mechanism in coordination with Thai official bodies and central Islamic councils to ensure they reach those in need across the various states and provinces. He emphasized that these efforts are under the direct supervision of His Excellency the Minister of Islamic Affairs, Sheikh Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, to guarantee their implementation according to the highest standards.
Thai praise for the Kingdom's leading role
For their part, the Sheikh of Islam in Thailand, Sheikh Arun Boon Chum, and the President of the Central Islamic Council, General Surin Balari, expressed their appreciation for the generous and ongoing support provided by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. They conveyed their deep gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman – may God protect them – affirming that these initiatives leave a positive impact on the Muslim community in Thailand and strengthen the values of social solidarity.
The ceremony was attended by key figures, the religious attaché, Professor Majid bin Mohammed Al-Dhaian, the dean of the diplomatic corps, the Russian ambassador, a number of ambassadors from Arab and Islamic countries, and heads of Islamic associations and centers, reflecting the great importance that the international and local community attaches to the Saudi role in the region.
