Public Debate Swirls Over PM Harini’s Casual Outfit on Bangkok Trip

 

Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya’s recent visit to Bangkok, Thailand, to represent Sri Lanka at the BIMSTEC Summit has stirred up significant attention on social media — not for her diplomatic role, but for her outfit of choice.

As she arrived in Bangkok on the 2nd of April via Suvarnabhumi International Airport, some social media users commented critically on her casual attire, particularly the sweater tied around her waist. Detractors argued that her outfit did not align with the formality expected from a national leader representing her country.

Harini attended a standard welcoming reception at the airport wearing this casual outfit. It’s worth noting, however, that the leaders of the six other countries attending the summit were also received without much ceremonial fanfare at the airport. During the subsequent evening banquet and official summit sessions, the Prime Minister wore more formal attire, including a traditional saree.

Interestingly, this isn't the first time PM Harini has chosen casual wear for international travel. During her European tour in March — including visits to France and Germany — she had also dressed casually during transit. However, those outfits did not attract similar public scrutiny or criticism.

While in Bangkok, she also visited the famous Wat Pho temple, where she had a brief encounter with Indian actor Gagan Malik, known for playing the role of Siddhartha Gautama in the biopic “Sri Siddhartha Gautama.” A photo of the two was taken during this visit, where the Prime Minister was dressed in a saree.

On the night of April 3rd, PM Harini participated in a formal banquet held in honor of the BIMSTEC leaders, wearing traditional attire once again. She also joined the summit's opening session the following day in a saree.

This year's BIMSTEC Summit — the first in three years — is themed “Prosperity, Resilience, and Openness.” The summit brings together seven member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and the host country, Thailand.

Despite the fashion discourse, the Prime Minister's active engagement in key regional dialogues remains central to her diplomatic mission.