On Aug 8, Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva told the press that the government would sponsor ‘Naresuan’, an epic movie about the ancient Ayutthayan king who saved the kingdom from Burma four hundred years ago.  The movie is directed by Mom Chao Chatrichalerm Yukol, who made ‘Suriyothai’ in 2001.

Abhisit said that the legend of King Naresuan was meaningful in Thai history and to the Thai people.  The movie is in honour of Her Majesty the Queen on the occasion of her birthday on Aug 12, and to promote and worship the great king for his bravery, endurance, sacrifice, patriotism and military genius which have contributed to Thai sovereignty up to today, as well as to raise the awareness among Thais to unite and love the country.

The Ministry of Culture is to give support to the production of this movie.  The PM hopes that the movie will make Thais worship the monarchy which has contributed so much to the benefit of the Thai people.

Minister of Culture Teera Slukpetch said that the Ministry would use the budget of the Strong Thai Project to support the movie.  He would consult Mom Chao Chatrichalerm Yukol on the amount, and ask the Cabinet for approval.