Awaiting Excitement! ‘Tom Yum Goong’ and ‘Kebaya’ Nominated for ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’

Exciting news! ‘Tom Yum Goong’ and the ‘Kebaya’ have been proposed for inscription as ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity’ by UNESCO. Being listed would not only elevate Thai culture on a global stage but also affirm the value of local wisdom passed down through generations.

The Ministry of Culture of Thailand regularly submits Thai cultural heritage elements to UNESCO each year. In the past, four Thai elements have been successfully inscribed: Khon (masked dance), Thai massage, Nora dance, and the Songkran festival. This year, in addition to ‘Tom Yum Goong,’ the ‘Kebaya’ has been jointly proposed with Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia, and Singapore at the upcoming Intergovernmental Committee meeting on the Safeguarding of Intangible Cultural Heritage this December. Moreover, ‘Thai traditional dress,’ ‘Muay Thai,’ and ‘Phakhawma’ are also being considered for future registration.

The Department of Cultural Promotion has also prepared a 10-year plan to continuously propose Thai cultural heritage elements, with plans to organize celebrations upon successful inscription. The focus is on promoting Thai cultural heritage internationally to generate income and enhance Thailand's Soft Power, making it widely known around the world.

For more information : Ministry of Culture

Link : https://www.m-culture.go.th