On 15 February 2014 H.E. Mr. Somchai Charanasomboon, Ambassador of Thailand to Sweden gave an interview to Mr.Kjell Törmä, editor of Kiruna Tidningen regarding his official mission in Kiruna and about the meeting with the Thai community in Kiruna. The Ambassador was also informed by the editor that Mrs.Sailom Bergdahl, a Thai lady in Kiruna has been chosen to be “Kiruna Inhabitant of 2013”. In total, there were more than thousand voters and Mrs.Sailom had the highest score. The magazine has held voting of “Kiruna Inhabitant of the Year” for the 16th time this year. The story of Mrs.Sailom was published in the magazine. 

     Kiruna inhabitants praised Mrs.Sailom for her kindness, generosity and helpfulness to other people without expecting anything in return. During the past two years, Mrs.Sailom has organized a Christmas dinner with Christmas food for free at her restaurant Malmia. The intention is to provide an opportunity for those without family, exposed groups and other groups in the society to gather and celebrate Christmas together. In addition, the celebration doesn´t only brighten up Christmas for Kiruna inhabitants, but also creates harmony between people in the community. Mrs.Sailom said that happiness of Kiruna inhabitants and their appreciation are the main motivation for her to continue organizing the event. 

     Mrs.Sailom moved to Kiruna with her Swedish husband 25 years ago and was one of the first Thais in Kiruna, she learned the Swedish language quickly and has lived in harmony with the society. Moreover, she has been the owner of 200-seat restaurant Malmia for 5 years. Being generous and supporting other people without expecting anything in return makes Mrs.Sailom well known and beloved among Kiruna inhabitants.    

     The Royal Thai Embassy wishes to congratulate Mrs.Sailom Bergdahl and is proud of her as a Thai lady in Kiruna and in Sweden.