A stunning orchid display, launched on Valentine’s Day, marks the beginning of celebrations for 60 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Singapore.
Singapore, 14 February 2025 – The Royal Thai Embassy of Singapore and Gardens by the Bay have launched a stunning orchid display, “Orchids from the Land of Smiles,” to commemorate 60 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Singapore. The event, officially opened by H.E. Mrs. Ureerat Chareontoh, Ambassador of Thailand to Singapore, highlights the deep cultural and botanical ties between the two nations.
The showcase features over 60 exquisite orchid taxa, including varieties native to Thailand, such as Vanda, Rhynchostylis, and Dendrobium. Orchids, celebrated for their beauty, strength, and elegance, hold special significance in Thailand, symbolising hospitality, respect, and admiration. Often given as tokens of affection, particularly on special occasions like Valentine’s Day, the display is a tribute to Thailand’s rich cultural heritage.
In her speech, Ambassador Ureerat emphasised the significance of 2025 as both Singapore’s SG60 and the 60th anniversary of Thailand-Singapore relations. This orchid display marks the first of many events to celebrate the milestone, with Gardens by the Bay’s collaborations with various countries through botanical exhibitions throughout the year.
The exhibition also showcases the artistry of Thai craftsmanship. Sculptors from Thailand have created stunning pieces inspired by the Royal Pantheon, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and the Grand Palace in Bangkok. Visitors can admire the carefully curated natural displays, including bandaged orchids mounted on tree trunks to highlight their trailing roots.
Gardens by the Bay’s ACEO, May Yeo, officially launched the event, which celebrates the enduring friendship between Thailand and Singapore, highlighting their shared cultural and botanical ties.
Orchids, a symbol of luxury, admiration, and resilience, hold a special place in both Thai and Singaporean cultures. In Thailand, orchids are often offered at temples and during Teachers’ Day to honour educators. The choice of orchids for this display is a fitting representation of the strong bonds between the two nations over the past six decades.
The exhibition’s setting is equally extraordinary. Inspired by the Temple of the Emerald Buddha in Bangkok, the display features a recreated temple with iconic features like the Royal Pantheon and the Giant Asura Guardian. The temple, located within the Grand Palace in Bangkok, is a revered symbol of Thai culture and architecture.
Adding to the cultural experience, the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s Singapore office has sponsored a traditional Thai puppet show by the renowned Aksara Theatre. The performance blends Thai folklore with live orchestral music, telling stories of heroism, love, and honour through intricate puppetry.
Source: IN Diplomacy Reporters
