Thailand moves forward with UNESCO bid for Chud Thai

2026-01-26 - 11:49

BANGKOK — Culture Minister Sabida Thaised on 26 January 2026 attended a working lunch hosted by Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to discuss cooperation on Thailand’s bid to nominate Chud Thai for UNESCO recognition. The meeting focused on preparations for submitting “Chud Thai: The Knowledge, Craftsmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume” for consideration by UNESCO, as well as plans to promote Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom internationally. In July last year, Culture Ministry permanent secretary Prasop Riangngern said UNESCO had confirmed that the nomination would be examined at the 21st session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2026. The nomination forms part of Thailand’s soft power policy and efforts to preserve cultural heritage, which the Culture Ministry has pursued since 2009. Thailand currently has 396 items registered as national intangible cultural heritage. Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom was listed at the national level in 2023, before the cabinet approved its submission to UNESCO on 26 March 2024. Prasop said Chud Thai reflects Thailand’s cultural identity and refined craftsmanship, drawing on traditional techniques, patterns and locally woven fabrics from across the country. He highlighted Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom, which was researched and designed by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother during official overseas visits in 1960 to present a distinctly Thai image to the international community. Today, Chud Thai Phra Ratchaniyom is widely worn at royal ceremonies, official functions and weddings, symbolising the value of Thai wisdom while continuing to inspire contemporary Thai fashion design.