Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana, born Suthida Tidjai, is the Queen consort of Thailand as the fourth wife of King Vajiralongkorn. Before their marriage, she was a flight attendant.
Early life and education
Suthida was born on 3 June 1978. She graduated from Hatyaiwittayalai Somboonkulkanya Middle School and Assumption University with a bachelor's degree in communication arts in 2000. Suthida was formerly a flight attendant for JALways Airlines – which is now part of Japan Airlines – from 2000 to 2003 and later Thai Airways in 2003 until 2008.
Crown Prince's guard
Suthida was appointed commander of Crown Prince Vajiralongkorn's household guard in August 2014. Suthida was linked romantically to the crown prince following his divorce from Srirasmi Suwadee. In October 2016, international media reports labeled her as the designated king's "consort", despite the palace never officially declaring their relationship. On 13 October 2017, she was named a Dame Grand Cross of The Most Illustrious Order of Chula Chom Klao, which bestows the title Than Phu Ying. She is the first female officer to receive this honour since 2004 and the first in the reign of King Rama X.
On 1 December 2016, she was appointed Commander of the Special Operations Unit of the King's Guard and promoted to the rank of general. She reached her present rank after only six years of service. She has successfully completed several military training courses. On 1 June 2017, she was appointed as acting commander of Royal Thai Aide-de-camp Department following the reorganization of the Royal Security Command.
On 1 May 2019, Suthida was made the queen consort of King Vajiralongkorn whose coronation took place in Bangkok on 4–6 May 2019. The marriage registration took place at the Amphorn Sathan Residential Hall in Bangkok, with her sister-in-law Princess Sirindhorn and President of Privy Council Prem Tinsulanonda as witnesses.
Title, styles, honours and awards
Titles and styles
13 October 2017 – 1 May 2019: Than Phu Ying Suthida Vajiralongkorn na Ayudhya
2019–present: Her Majesty The Queen
* 1–4 May 2019: Somdet Phra Rajini Suthida
* 4 May 2019 – present: Somdet Phra Nang Chao Suthida Bajrasudhabimalalakshana Phra Borommarajini