The formation of the Tao Bo Keng Kiew Ong Tai Te Association of Thailand marked a significant milestone in preserving Chinese-Thai cultural traditions, Phuket Sophon Suwannarat said at the ceremony.
Governor Sophon presided over the signing ceremony joined by Kittiwong Chansattham, President of the newly established association and the Phuket Shrine Association, along with representatives from 24 shrines nationwide who also signed the record of the association’s formation.
Among the signatories to the formation of the new association were representatives from Chinese shrines in Khok Kloi, Tai Muang and Takua Pa District in Phang Nga Province, and from shrines in Krabi and Trang.
Further afield, also signing the formation charter were representatives from Chinese shrines in Hat Yai (Songkhla) and from Nakhon Ratchasima, Ratchaburi, Surat Thani and Chumphon ‒ and from the Yaowarat district in Bangkok.
Following the formal proceedings, attendees enjoyed a Chinese New Year celebration and a press conference detailing the official launch of the Tao Bo Keng Kiew Ong Tai Te Association.
A major highlight of the event was the announcement of the 200th anniversary of the Phuket Vegetarian Festival to be held this year, which Governor Sophon highlighted as an important cultural and religious event that has been recognised as an intangible cultural heritage.