• Queen Mother Sirikit of Thailand dies at age 93 after developing a blood infection.
• A year-long period of mourning has been declared by the royal family for her passing.
• Serious public gatherings are curtailed, and flags will be flown at half-mast nationwide.
• The former queen was known for her charitable work and influence in rural development.
• Sirikit's funeral ceremonies began as citizens expressed their grief and respect.

Thailand's Queen Mother Sirikit passed away at the age of 93 after developing a blood infection, as confirmed by the Royal Household Bureau. She had been in declining health, hospitalized for various illnesses since 2019, and largely absent from public life following a stroke in 2012. The royal family's announcement captured the national sentiment of loss, prompting Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to express that Sirikit's death represents "a great loss for the country" according to thejakartapost and latimes.

In tribute to her legacy, a year-long period of mourning has been declared. The royal family has instructed civil servants to observe this mourning and will fly flags at half-mast throughout governmental agencies for the next 30 days. There are poignant displays of tribute all around Bangkok, including black digital billboards honoring the late queen, showing the depths of public affection for her role as a maternal figure in the nation, as reported by scmp and channelnewsasia.

The procession for Sirikit's remains is set to travel to the Grand Palace, where she will lie in state for a year before cremation. Citizens are being asked to wear dark colors in mourning and to refrain from celebratory events, showcasing widespread respect for her contributions, according to reports by thejakartapost and latimes.

Throughout her life, Sirikit was known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in rural development and traditional craft preservation. Under her royal guidance, various initiatives were launched to support the poor and promote Thai culture. Her tireless work has endeared her to many, and her birthday, August 12, is celebrated as Mother's Day in Thailand, emphasizing her maternal image, as indicated by scmp and channelnewsasia.