The Thai Cabinet has officially approved the nomination of "The Revitalization of Nang Yai or Thai Grand Shadow Play" by Community-based Groups in Thailand" for UNESCO’s Register of Good Safeguarding Practices. This marks a significant milestone as it is the first time Thailand has submitted a project in this category, aiming to showcase the country's success in "Community-led Conservation" on a global stage.
Minister of Culture Sabida Thaiseth (ซาบีดา ไทยเศรษฐ์) stated that the proposal, submitted to UNESCO on March 31, highlights a sustainable model of cultural preservation that other nations can learn from. The initiative is driven by the strong collaboration of three key communities: Wat Khanon (Ratchaburi) วัดขะหนอน จ. ราชบุรี, Wat Ban Don (Rayong) วัดบ้านดอน จ.ระยอง, and Wat Sawang Arom (Sing Buri) วัดสว่างอารมณ์ จ.สิงห์บุรี. These groups successfully revived the traditional shadow puppetry from the brink of extinction, with Wat Khanon previously earning a UNESCO award in 2007 for its outstanding efforts.
This move is intended to leverage Thailand’s cultural heritage as a form of Soft Power, transitioning local success into international policy. By securing this UNESCO recognition, Thailand reinforces its leadership in sustainable cultural management and ensures that the "living heritage" of Nang Yai continues to thrive and gain international prestige.
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