Thailand moves to protect its 'intangible' cultural heritage
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The "Phi Ta Khon" ghost festival celebrated in Loei's Dan Sai district, "Suad O-ae Wihanrai" traditional chanting and "Pha Khao Ma" chequered cloth, are among items that the Department of Cultural Promotion plans to register as part of the Kingdom's cultu
The department chief Chai Nakhonchai yesterday said that the Intangible Cultural Heritage draft legislation would soon be submitted for the Cabinet’s consideration in order to support Thailand’s participation in the Unesco Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Chai went on to say that the committee for national heritage registration had considered 102 items this year and would be able to announce at least 50 items as part of Thailand’s national heritage in seven areas including: performing arts; craftsmanship; literature; sports; social rituals and festivals; knowledge and practices about nature and the universe; and language.
Those that have already passed preliminary selection include the “Mahoree” Thai grand orchestra; “Lam Tat”, a style of singing; “Fawn Lep”, a northern traditional dance; and “Khon”, an ornamental dance headdress.
