Phuket Releases Young Sharks and Sea Turtles to Honor Queen Suthida’s Birthday

Phuket marked the 48th birthday of Her Majesty Queen Suthida on June 3 with a series of commemorative activities, including the release of young sharks and sea turtles into the Andaman Sea as part of a marine conservation initiative.

One of the province’s main volunteer events took place at a Royal Thai Navy base at Cape Panwa, adjacent to facilities operated by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR). The center is responsible for breeding and raising marine species that are later released into the wild to help support biodiversity in the Andaman Sea.

The ceremony brought together several senior officials, including Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthavorn, Third Naval Area Commander Vice Admiral Wirudhom Muangchin, Phuket Provincial Police Chief Major General Sinlert Sukhum, and Phuket Provincial Administrative Organization President Rewat Areerob.

According to the Phuket Public Relations Office, a total of 904 volunteers participated in the event, which was organized as part of nationwide celebrations honoring the Queen.

This year marks Queen Suthida’s 48th birthday, a milestone considered significant in Thai tradition as it completes the fourth 12-year cycle of life.

Thailand has also announced plans to issue commemorative brooches to mark the occasion, similar to those produced during celebrations for the 72nd birthday of His Majesty King Rama X. The special souvenirs are expected to go on sale next month.