Thailand seeks recognition of ‘Tom Yum Goong’, ‘kebaya’ as cultural heritage
Thailand’s Ministry of Culture intends to propose Tom Yum Goong (spicy Thai soup) and the Kebaya dress for recognition as intangible cultural heritage of humanity by UNESCO.
Kenika Unjit, deputy spokesperson at the Prime Minister's Office, said that Thailand had previously successfully registered four items with UNESCO: Khon (traditional Thai masked dance), Thai massage, Nora (a form of traditional dance), and the Songkran Festival.
The Kebaya dress is a joint submission by Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, and Singapore.
These will be reviewed at the 19th session of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage from December 2-7 in Paraguay.
Additionally, “Thai traditional dress”, “Muay Thai” (Thai boxing), and “Pa Khao Ma” (traditional chequered cloth) have been proposed for future consideration by UNESCO.
“Minister Sudawan Wangsupakijkosol has directed the Department of Cultural Promotion to organise celebratory activities for the inclusion of Tom Yum Goong and Kebaya in the UNESCO list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity this year. A 10-year plan is being developed to continuously submit Thailand's intangible cultural heritage for recognition by UNESCO. Detailed proposals, including types and timelines, would be prepared to promote Thailand's cultural heritage and various aspects of soft power on the international stage,” Kenika said.
"The Ministry of Culture is actively promoting soft power by leveraging Thailand's intangible cultural heritage, such as Thai cuisine, handicrafts, and traditional festivals, to create value, generate employment, and provide income for the people and communities,” she said. “This initiative aligns with the government’s policy to enhance the international recognition of Thailand's diverse soft power elements,” she added.
