The Ministry of Culture is preparing to propose adding Thai traditional attire to UNESCO’s esteemed intangible cultural heritage listings. Leading this effort is Kowit Pakamart, the director-general of the Department of Cultural Promotion, who orchestrated a collaborative session at the Thailand Cultural Centre. This gathering involved key figures focused on documenting Thai traditional costumes, aiming to showcase Thailand’s diverse cultural fabric.
Kowit, the driving force behind this initiative, passionately highlighted the distinctive designs and craftsmanship of Thai traditional dresses, illustrating their unique representation of various regions across the country. He emphasized that unlike other nations, these dresses carry stories that transcend time, contributing to Thailand’s rich cultural narrative.
Thai traditional dresses encompass eight major types for women, researched by Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who worked to preserve Thai cultural heritage. These dresses, created over six decades ago for her royal journeys with the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, reflect meticulous design and craftsmanship. On the male front, three significant types of traditional outfits cater to different occasions, offering a glimpse into Thailand’s sartorial diversity.
Kowit stressed that wearing Thai traditional dress isn’t just a fashion statement but a deeply rooted social norm ingrained in Thai society. It serves as a strong symbol of pride in traditions and culture, representing the nation’s heritage.
To support this proposal, the Thai Khadee Research Institute at Thammasat University is leading efforts. Associate Professor Saowatharn Phoklad, the institute’s director, mentioned their collaboration with the Department of Cultural Promotion to compile a comprehensive database on Thai traditional dresses. Their dedicated team is actively gathering information and engaging with individuals preserving cultural heritage.
This cultural movement follows UNESCO’s recent recognition of Thailand’s Songkran water festival, adding it to the esteemed intangible cultural heritage list. As Thailand gears up for potential recognition of its traditional dress, the world eagerly awaits acknowledging this as a valuable contribution to humanity’s shared cultural diversity.
