Tom Yum Goong, a spicy and sour Thai shrimp soup, and Kebaya, a garment traditionally worn by women, were both recently listed as intangible cultural heritage of humanity by the UN-related global organisation.
Yesterday’s parade, led by Phuket Governor Sophon Suwannarat, celebrated both items’ inclusion and was organised by the Ministry of Culture, together with Phuket Province, the Peranakan Association of Thailand and Phuket residents.
Many of the prticipants in the parade were adorned in kebaya costumes as they made their way along a 850-metre route from Chalermprakiat Park to the Blue Elephant Restaurant, with large numbers of tourists watching on and taking photos of the parade.
Ahead of the parade there was an official inauguration ceremony led by Governor Sophon, who was joined by his wife Mrs Busadee, who serves as the President of the Phuket branch of the Red Cross Society of Thailand and as President of the Phuket branch of Interior Ministry Housewives Association.
Also in attendance was Prasop Riangngen, Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion, in addition to representatives from the Ministry of Culture, experts from the Committee for the Promotion and Preservation of Cultural Heritage, selected members of government agencies, executives of local administrative organisations, honorary consuls and the president of the Peranakan Association of Thailand.
In his opening remarks Governor Sophon expressed his delight at both items being recognised by such an esteemed international body, adding it is somehting that will make Thai people feel very proud.
It will also continue to help develop the cultural economy to create jobs, generate income and enhance economic stability as many tourists will nw be more aware of both items and curious to know more, he added.
Governor Sophon further explained that the Kabaya costume in particular is a shared culture of five countries in South East Asia which reflects the strong relationship between them that has exosted for over 400 years.
“Kebaya is a costume that has transcended time,” he said. “It connects the communities of Thai Buddhists, Muslims, Chinese, Javanese and Peranakans and there is beauty that comes from the joint creation of women in various communities.”
The Governor confirmed that measures to further promote the costume will now be introduced, with members of government agencies in Phuket Province wearing Kebaya every Thursday to continue the culture.
Governor Sophon explained the importance of cultural heritage as a means of national identity and how its preservation is therefore crucial.
“We support all moves to jointly preserve, transmit and create cultural heritage by passing on from generation to generation, including respecting and accepting the practices of all communities,” he explained.
“We will promote awareness of the value and importance of cultural heritage, reflecting cultural diversity, human creativity and sustainable development and will open opportunities for people of all races, genders, languages and religions to jointly promote, preserve and pass on the two cultural heritage items in all areas of Thailand,” Governor Sophon concluded.