Bangkok: Thailand has put forward a proposal for the “Thai dress” to be considered by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 2026, aiming to highlight the cultural significance, craftsmanship, and practices associated with the Thai national costume.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prasop Riangngen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, announced that UNESCO has confirmed the inclusion of ‘Chud Thai: The Knowledge, Craftsmanship and Practices of the Thai National Costume’ for consideration at the 21st meeting of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2026. This initiative is part of Thailand’s ongoing policy to promote its cultural heritage and soft power, with the Ministry of Culture actively working on these efforts since 2009.
The Thai cultural heritage list currently includes 396 registered items at the national level, with the “Thai Royal Dress” being added in 2023. On March 26, 2024, the Cabinet decided to submit this dress for international registration with UNESCO. The Thai dress is seen as a symbol of national identity and cultural richness, featuring diverse patterns, sewing techniques, and the use of Thai fabrics. The ‘Thai Royal Dress’, notably promoted by Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, was designed to reflect Thainess during King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s official visits abroad in 1960. This attire is widely used in royal and traditional ceremonies, including weddings, showcasing the enduring pride in Thai culture and craftsmanship.
The Ministry of Culture addressed concerns over social media reports suggesting Cambodia’s proposal to register ‘wedding traditions’ as intangible cultural heritage, allegedly involving ‘Thai dresses’. The Ministry clarified that UNESCO has not confirmed any such inclusion, emphasizing that all countries are required to update their submission forms for the 2025-2026 cycle.
The UNESCO nomination process does not claim ownership of any culture but highlights the community’s value. UNESCO supports transparent submissions that foster cooperation and respect for cultural diversity. Examples include the ‘Kebaya’ jointly submitted by several Southeast Asian countries and the independent submissions of ‘Khon’ and ‘Lakorn Khol’ by Thailand and Cambodia, respectively, in 2018.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture reiterated that the UNESCO review process is thorough and based on transparency and international cooperation principles. Thailand’s proposal aims to gain international recognition for Thai dress and promote its cultural heritage globally under principles of understanding and creativity.
Thailand emphasizes fostering good relations with neighboring countries, which share historical and cultural ties. The Ministry encourages correct information dissemination to maintain these relationships, stating that culture serves as a bridge rather than a barrier.
Finally, the Ministry invites public support for ‘Thai dress’ and ‘Muay Thai’, which are under consideration for international registration in 2026 and 2028, respectively, to showcase Thailand’s cultural pride and enhance its global image.