PRD Showcases Royal Arts and Crafts Projects to International Media

Thailand's Government Public Relations Department (PRD) hosted a 2-day study visit for international media on 9 – 10 July 2026, showcasing how the country's Royal Arts and Crafts Projects are transforming traditional craftsmanship into economic opportunity and global recognition.

Held under the theme "Royal Inspirations: Elevating Thai Identity on the Global Stage," the program brought media from Russia, Japan, Vietnam, China, and Germany to Ayutthaya province to see firsthand how royal-initiated projects support local livelihoods, generate income, and preserve Thai cultural heritage.

The first day began with visits to the Ko Koet Arts and Crafts Centre and the Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (SACIT), where journalists observed demonstrations of weaving, embroidery, basketry, and ceramics. The visits illustrated how traditional Thai craftsmanship — passed down through generations — is being adapted into contemporary products for domestic and international markets.

In the afternoon, PRD hosted a panel discussion at The Cavalli Casa Resort on "Thai Cultural Capital: Unlocking Global Opportunities," bringing together representatives from both government agencies and the private sector. 

Kittiporn Jaiboon, an expert in cultural heritage and acting Director of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Division, outlined Thailand's approach to preserving intangible cultural heritage while promoting it on the international stage.

Asa Piwkhum, Director of the Creative Industries and Services Bureau at the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization) (CEA), shared insights into leveraging Thailand's cultural capital and local wisdom to drive the creative economy.

Assistant Professor Dr. Anucha Thirakanont, Director of the Sustainable Arts and Crafts Institute of Thailand (SACIT), highlighted the organization's mission to enhance the capabilities of Thai artisans, strengthen collaborative networks, and promote Thai handicrafts in international markets and on the global stage.

Thai fashion designers Bhubawit Kritpholnara, founder of ISSUE Thailand, and Janesuda Parnto Sirisant, founder of JANESUDA, shared how they have incorporated Thai textiles and traditional craftsmanship into contemporary fashion, helping expand market reach and international visibility for Thai design.

At the venue, it also featured an exhibition of contemporary Thai handicrafts, along with cultural performances including the "Pre-eminent Protector of Arts and Crafts Dance" and a textile showcase under the concept "Kanok Ayutthaya Phusa Silp," presented by students from Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Rajabhat University.

The event on the first day concluded with remarks by PRD Director-General Sudruetai Lertkasem.

The initiative underscores the role of Thailand's Royal Arts and Crafts Projects in linking cultural heritage with economic development, supporting sustainable growth in local communities while raising the profile of Thai craftsmanship abroad.

Source: PR Thai Government 

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