Bangkok: The Ministry of Culture is taking steps to propose "Nang Yai," a traditional Thai performing art, for registration with UNESCO. The proposal aims for inclusion in the category of plans, projects, and activities with good preservation by March 2026. In collaboration with the Philippines and other ASEAN nations, Thailand is also proposing "Khao Mao" as a shared ASEAN heritage.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Paethongtarn Shinawatra, the Minister of Culture, chaired the Committee for the Promotion and Preservation of Cultural Heritage's 1/2025 meeting. The meeting included high-level participants such as Mr. Prasop Riangngen, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, and Mrs. Yuthika Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, among others. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Culture Conference Center.
Ms. Paethongtarn announced the approval of two categories of honorary awards to commend those who promote and preserve cultural heritage in 2025. The awards will recognize 10 individuals and four groups or organizations that have made significant contributions. The individuals include Mr. Mett Mettkarunchit, Mr. Kwanchai Surinsri, and others, while groups include the Walailak University Cultural and Sports Promotion Center and the Muay Thai Teachers Association.
The "Community-based Revitalization of Nang Yai Traditional in Thailand" project is set to be proposed for UNESCO's Register of Good Safeguarding Practices. Nang Yai, a shadow puppet art form, is performed using cow or buffalo hide and has roots dating back to the 15th century. It is currently practiced in only three communities: Wat Khanon in Ratchaburi Province, Wat Ban Don in Rayong Province, and Wat Sawang Arom in Singburi Province. The initiative aims to preserve and promote this cultural art form at various levels.
Currently, only 40 out of 788 items are listed in UNESCO's "Projects, Projects, and Activities with Good Preservation" category. The Department of Cultural Promotion will prepare the necessary documentation for Nang Yai, aiming for Cabinet approval and submission to UNESCO by March 2026.
The Minister highlighted additional progress, including submissions related to the Loi Krathong tradition and the Thai national costume. The Thai costume is slated for consideration at the 21st Session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2026.
Moreover, the proposal for "Khao Mao" as a joint ASEAN heritage item is in progress, following an invitation from the Philippines. The aim is to inscribe it on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by 2026. The meeting also acknowledged Thailand's candidacy for the UNESCO Committee and the listing of 10 items on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List for 2024.