Ekkanat Promphan joined the colourful water festival which was a collaboration between PRU and Ratsada Municipality, where he delivered a speech detailing the importance of preserving the culture and tradition of Loy Krathong.
While the ancient festival holds great significance in local culture, it is also very appealing to tourists, which is in line with the government’s policy to promote festivals and traditions to further develop the country’s added value, Minister Ekkanat explained.
He further emphasised the festival’s significance by stating that the government is preparing to propose it for consideration to be part of the list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity to UNESCO.
Also present as part of the official delegation was Ratsada Mayor Nakarin Yosangrat who delivered a similar speech to the large crowd of revellers, outlining how this collaborative project now in its third year was important to preserving local and national culture and traditions.
The festival is also a great way to promote the local area and welcome tourists, which can contribute significantly to the local economy, Mayor Nakarin added.
As part of safety measures at the event, Phuket Provincial Police confirmed they had both uniformed and plain clothed officers in attendance ready to offer assistance to any revellers in need of help, particularly those who may have encountered problems in or around the water.
There was also a beauty contest as part of the festivities at the event where the most beautiful krathong float was voted for by PRU students.
Similarly colourful events also took place all across the island as Phuket celebrated Loy Krathong last night, including in Cherng Talay, Patong, Wichit, Central Festival Mall in Kathu and at Wat Chalong.