Thailand lost 8,000 people to the Asian tsunami in 2004, and it will remember the victims in a ceremony at Phang Nga, the hardest-hit area on Thailand's southwestern coast.
Sang MIO - PHUKET: In remembrance of the Asian tsunami, the Thai government will hold a special ceremony in Phang Nga province, the hardest-hit area in the country, on Friday (Dec 26).
Friday marks the 10th anniversary of the disaster.
Thailand, where no disaster warning system had been in place, lost 8,000 people to the tsunami. That has prompted it to pay closer attention to such threats from natural disasters. Ten years on, the country is better equipped with an effective disaster warning system.
Thai Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha will preside over the two-hour ceremony, which will also be attended by foreign dignitaries.
On Thursday, a rehearsal was carried out to ensure a smooth roll-out of activities. Rows of chairs were lined up for the guests and speeches were practised.
On Friday, the event will start with the laying of wreaths at the tsunami memorial in Phang Nga, followed by General Prayuth's speech in a tribute to all the lives that were lost. The event will also include a recitation of poetry before a candlelight memorial ceremony at the end.
