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Published on July 26, 2007

The project was unveiled yesterday by Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont at the Bangkok Port in Khlong Toei district.

It is officially called "Rua Hong Samud Chalerm Phra Kiat Padsib Phansa Maha Rachan" ("Library Boat for the Celebration of His Majesty the King's 80th birthday").

The library boat has about 1,500 books on His Majesty's history, achievements and duties; an exhibition entitled "Phor Phiang Yiang Phor" ("Self-Sufficient Like the Father") presenting his im-portant photographs; interesting descriptions of his

sufficiency-economy theory; exhibition displays and multimedia documentaries; and a drawing contest for students.

Visitors will also be able to purchase an 8,000-piece jigsaw of HM the King's picture.

The boat will cruise along the Chao Phya River passing communities in eight pro-vinces: Bangkok, Nonthaburi, Samut Prakan, Pathum Thani, Ayutthaya, Angthong, Sing Buri and Chainat. It will cover about 270 kilometres in 80 days.

The boat is constructed of iron, weighs 250 tonnes and can accommodate about 50 visitors.

Artists like pop duo Dan-Beam will join the cruise as role models for youths.

For more details on the library boat, please visit www.port.co.th.

Wannapa Phetdee

The Nation