Bangkok: The Department of Religious Affairs is preparing to submit a comprehensive document to UNESCO to propose Kruba Sriwichai as a significant world figure on the occasion of his 150th birth anniversary.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sabida Thaiseth, Minister of Culture, chaired the initial meeting of the Steering Committee responsible for the agenda item to recognize Kruba Sriwichai. The meeting took place at the Ministry of Culture's conference center and via electronic media. Key attendees included Phra Thep Ratana Nayok, Abbot of Wat Phra That Hariphunchai, Mr. Chaiyaphon Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, and other high-ranking officials and committee members.
The meeting focused on the progress of the proposal to submit Kruba Sriwichai's 150th birth anniversary to UNESCO. It considered the necessary documents and forms required for submission to the Thai National Commission for UNESCO by October 2026. The proposal aims to highlight Kruba Sriwichai's global contributions, particularly in spreading Buddhist teachings, community development, and restoration of religious sites, such as the construction of the Doi Suthep road without government funding.
The Minister of Culture emphasized the Department of Religious Affairs' role as the secretariat of the steering committee, providing budget support and coordinating with various stakeholders. Four subcommittees are driving research and information compilation on Kruba Sriwichai's contributions, aligned with UNESCO's criteria. Fieldwork and coordination with international academics have been conducted to gather information reflecting his influence, showcasing how Thai temples abroad have adopted his principles.
The document to be submitted aims to align Kruba Sriwichai's contributions with UNESCO's mission in Social and Human Sciences. His role in disseminating Buddhist teachings and fostering community unity through cultural development and heritage conservation forms the crux of the proposal.
Awareness-raising activities are underway, including the 91st anniversary commemoration of the Doi Suthep road and academic exchanges with international scholars. An official bilingual website is also in development to promote Kruba Sriwichai's history and achievements globally.
After the documents are submitted in October 2026, the nomination will proceed to UNESCO by December 1, 2026, with consideration expected in 2027. If approved, celebratory activities will occur throughout 2028, promoting Kruba Sriwichai's history and the "Kruba Sriwichai way of life," reinforcing values of faith, virtue, and volunteerism globally.