Bangkok (Thailand) – November 19, 2018 (travelindex.com) – Iconsiam, the spectacular 54 billion baht construction project and symbol of Thailand's enduring prosperity on the Chao Phraya River, today opened Thailand's first floating museum on the ship "Sri Mahasamut" – a symbol of prosperity on the river. The occasion was the commemoration of King Taksin the Great on the 250th anniversary of the founding of Krung Thonburi Sri Mahasamut. The museum presents the life and work of King Taksin the Great in an exhibition that uses state-of-the-art technology to tell stories and offers visitors a spectacular experience. Stepping aboard the ship feels like stepping back in time. The sensational opening of the floating museum "Sri Mahasamut" was celebrated with a spectacular light and sound show and a Ramakien puppet theater performance featuring the episode "Hanuman Flirts with Varin"—an episode of particular significance as it was written by King Taksin the Great himself. The ceremony was presided over by Dr. Visanu Krua-ngarm, Deputy Prime Minister. Representatives from Iconsiam's management, sponsors, and renowned actors Aum Atichart Chumnanon, James Jirayu Tangsrisuk, and Nune Woranuch Bhirombahkdi were in attendance. The ceremony took place in front of the floating museum ship "Sri Mahasamut," amidst the picturesque scenery of the Chao Phraya River in ICONSAIM River Park, symbolizing the ship's imminent resumption of its voyage.

Mr. Narong Chearavanont, Chairman of the Board of Iconsiam Superlux Residence Corporation Ltd., stated: “The ‘Sri Mahasamut’ floating museum was constructed by Iconsiam Co., Ltd., operator of Iconsiam – a spectacular and iconic building project and symbol of Thailand’s enduring prosperity – in collaboration with Iconsiam Residences Corporation Ltd., Iconsiam Super Luxe Residence Corporation Ltd., and the State Savings Bank. It commemorates King Taksin the Great for the regeneration of Krung Thonburi and its development into a major trading center with lasting prosperity. An exhibit showcases the King’s life and his contributions to the regeneration of Krung Thonburi and its development into a significant port city. The ‘Sri Mahasamut’ floating museum symbolizes the prosperity generated by waterways. It transports visitors back to the heyday of maritime trade in the 18th century, when Krung Thonburi was a major trading hub.” A port on an international trade route, bringing a pivotal era in Thai history closer to Thais and all those interested. The exhibition runs from November 14, 2018 to January 13, 2019 in River Park, Iconsiam, on the Chao Phraya River and is free of charge.

The spectacular ship "Sri Mahasamut" is a meticulous replica of the red-headed ship known to the Teochew people. Inside, visitors can explore various areas of the vessel, where an exhibition uses advanced interactive technology to tell historical stories, offering a virtual reality experience that transports visitors back in time aboard a real ship. The exhibition area is divided into three zones: Zone 1 – The Captain's Cabin – presents the history of maritime trade, the establishment and relocation of the capital, and Krung Thonburi's development as a significant port city. Zone 2 – The Crew's Cabin – conveys the atmosphere and life on board. Zone 3 – The Archive of Civilization – includes a biography and the initiatives of King Taksin the Great in rebuilding the city, a chronology of the wars to unify the kingdom, the trade relations and diplomacy between Thonburi and China, the world trade routes, and the ship's significance as a symbol of prosperity. Visitors can also get hands-on and enjoy onboard experiences, such as lifting a cargo crate and feeling like a crew member from bygone eras. Using Kinect, visitors can try on traditional costumes of different nationalities, take photos with the cultural archive, and share them on board. The ship "Sri Mahasamut" also offers magnificent views from the upper deck, as well as shopping and cafés.

“Iconsiam, the spectacular 54 billion baht construction project and symbol of Thailand’s enduring prosperity on the Chao Phraya River, was born from a desire to showcase the precious stories of pride from all facets of Thai culture in a captivating way. It testifies to our deep appreciation for the historical value, history, and holistic worth of the land on which this megacity project was built. To mark the 250th anniversary of Krung Thonburi Sri Mahasamut in 2017, Iconsiam, Iconsiam Residences Corporation Ltd., Iconsiam Super Luxe Residence Corporation Ltd., and Government Savings Bank wish to take this special opportunity to honor King Taksin the Great. The floating museum, the ‘Sri Mahasamut Ship,’ is a way to acknowledge the value and significance of Krung Thonburi and to be part of our endeavor to combine the best that Thailand has to offer with the best of the world and to encourage Thais to…” “We want to preserve pride in Thai culture and help maintain its beauty for future generations, while at the same time inspiring visitors from all over the world to visit Thailand and impressing them with this country,” said Mr. Chearavanont.

Iconsiam is a spectacular, world-renowned landmark in Bangkok. It occupies a 55-rai riverfront site with 400 meters of waterfront and a gross floor area of ​​over 750,000 square meters. The complex includes two of the world's most glamorous shopping malls and two luxurious waterfront residential buildings with 70 and 52 floors respectively, one of which operates under the Mandarin Oriental Residences brand.

Iconsiam is being developed by three of Thailand's most successful companies, including Siam Piwat, owner and operator of prestigious retail projects such as Siam Center, Siam Paragon and Siam Discovery; Magnolia Quality Development Corporation (MQDC), owner and developer of luxury residential and mixed-use projects; and the multinational conglomerate Charoen Pokphand Group.

For further information, please contact Siam Piwat: Sireetorn Niyomsen – Tel.: 02-610-8230; Bangkok Public Relations: Pathara Kwantientong – Tel.: 02-664-9500