Thailand was the host of Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC 2003) on 20 October 2003, for which the government assigned the Royal Thai Navy to perform the Grand Royal Barge Procession for APEC attendees from 21 economic zones. This is deemed the first time that His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (King Rama 9) endorsed to show the Grand Royal Barge in addition to the royal ceremony, and this Grand Royal Barge Procession was also performed at night for the first time. JSL Company Limited (at that time) was assigned to be the organizer of the dramatic light and sound show with media to support the barge procession, allowing the APEC attendees to appreciate the great beauty, elegance and value of the barge procession art. This show might not have a chance to be watched from other countries, and it also made Thai people proud of the valued art and culture.
