Satun: The Department of Religious Affairs, in partnership with the Provincial Cultural Offices of 14 southern provinces, launched the "Festival of Faith and Moral Development: Developing Communities with the Power of Buddhism." This initiative aims to uphold moral values and expand cultural capital within communities across Southern Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the festival, organized by the Department of Religious Affairs under the Ministry of Culture, together with Satun Province, commenced with an opening ceremony for the 'Festival of Faith and Moral Community Development through the Power of 'Bovorn' (Buddhist, Royal, and Community) in Southern Thailand.' This event is part of the 'Bovorn Power in the Religious Dimension' project for the fiscal year 2026 and is being held from August 7-9, 2026, at the Cultural Plaza, Kuden National Museum, Phiman Subdistrict, Mueang Satun District, Satun Province.
Mr. Chaiyapol Suk-iam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, presided over the ceremony, joined by Ms. Lipikarn Kamlangchai, Inspector-General of the Ministry of Culture; Mr. Kanit Kongchuey, Governor of Satun Province; Mr. Kittipong Kaewyodthong, Provincial Cultural Officer of Satun; and various leaders and partners from the 'Bovorn' moral community network. The festival intends to promote the development of moral communities by integrating religious, cultural, and local wisdom resources for sustainable community growth.
The festival features lectures on enhancing community products, including a session titled "Uniting the Buddhist Community to Build a Community Economy," focusing on "Online Markets: Creating Value for Community Products," along with a workshop. Visitors can explore 40 cultural booths and experience cultural performances from Southern Thailand, such as kite making, the artistry of Satun, Andaman Sea lifestyle, colorful batik fabrics, and traditional folk theater. Other highlights include a Motion Mapping performance titled "Colors of Faith: Uniting the Buddhist Community of 14 Southern Provinces," and performances by artists like Benz Jariya and Amp Seethru. Exhibits of local food demonstrations and community products from all 14 provinces are also part of the event.
The "Developing Moral Communities with the Power of Buddhism" initiative for 2026 spans all four regions of Thailand, with events previously held in the Northeast, Central, and Northern regions. Mr. Chaiyapol Suk-iam emphasized the Ministry of Culture's commitment to using Thai culture to drive the country's economy and society, focusing on fostering virtuous individuals and building a robust community through the "Bovorn" concept.
The festival aligns with the cultural economy policy that transforms cultural capital into high economic value by upgrading cultural products and promoting the grassroots economy. It provides a platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing successful practices, and inspiring moral community networks from 14 southern provinces. This event encourages religious and cultural tourism, creating jobs, generating income, and sustainably advancing the grassroots economy, ultimately enhancing the cultural future of Thailand.