The ‘Baba Andaman Forum’ brought together provincial officials, municipal leaders, academics, cultural networks and community groups to exchange knowledge and strengthen collaboration in preserving Peranakan heritage across the Andaman region.
Phuket Vice Governor Adul Chuthong presided over the opening of the event, highlighting how the local form of Baba-Peranakan culture was born from generations of cultural fusion in Phuket.
“Baba-Peranakan culture is the result of the blending of people of diverse races and religions who have long settled in Phuket,” he said. “This is reflected in the food, clothing, architecture and way of life, making Phuket a multicultural city with its own unique charm.”
Phuket City Deputy Mayor Pibulsak Kittithorakul said the municipality was prioritising culture as a driver of development under its ‘Discover Phuket’ and ‘Good City Culture’ policies.
“We are establishing the Phuket Museum (Peranakan Museum) as a learning centre to share history and cultural knowledge with the public and youth, while positioning Phuket as a true cultural tourism destination,” he said.
Decha Siduka, Director of the Office of Arts and Culture at Phuket Rajabhat University, added that the university was committed to supporting local wisdom and sustainable development.
“We promote research, arts and culture, and community participation, particularly through the creation of collaborative networks in the Andaman region,” he said.
The forum, supported by provincial agencies and cultural organisations, aims to foster cross-regional cooperation, develop cultural tourism maps and strengthen Phuket’s Peranakan identity as a living heritage for future generations.