Thailand’s King Bhumibol Abdulyadej, the world’s longest-reigning monarch, passed away at 3.52 pm on 13 October, at the age of 88.

Thai king Bhumibol Adulyadej photographed on his 85th birthday in Bangkok (Source: EPA)

The Thai cabinet will hold an urgent meeting to debate on issues concerning the throne and the country’s future.

In the previous day, a great number of Thai people flocked to Siriraj Hospital in Bangkok, where King Bhumibol Abdulyadej was under treatment, to pray for him.

King Bhumibol Abdulyadej officially came to the throne in 1950. He was said to be a symbol of national unity in Thailand and was widely revered in the country.

He was one of the most beloved kings of Thailand thanks to his initiatives related to over 2,000 development projects, which helped change the lives of millions of Thai poor farmers.

Under the 66-year reign of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, Thailand has recorded great achievements across fields, especially in economy, culture, science and technology.

The king was presented with the Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award by the former UN General Secretary Kofi Annan in June 2006.

According to Thailand’s royal succession law, Crown Prince Maha Vajralongkorn will be the new monarch.

(Source: VNA)