PUBLISHED: 5 Dec 2024 at 16: 51
After being suggested by five nations, including Thailand, the standard clothing worn by women in the South has been made an intangible cultural heritage product by Unesco.
According to Culture Minister Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, the decision was made at a conference of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage on Wednesday in Asuncion, Paraguay.
” Kebaya: knowledge, skills, tradition and procedures” was jointly proposed by Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand to be added to the list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.
” It is a joy that the kebaya, an stylish southwestern costume, has been registered in the same year after tom yum fu, making it the sixth cultural identity piece of Thailand, following khon, Thai treatment, narrator, Songkran and tom yum kung“, Ms Sudawan said in a statement.
A kebaya is a front-slit best featuring intricate needlework and ribbons, fastened with a clasp. It is typically worn on formal events and celebrations when it is combined with a costume.
According to the secretary, kebaya knowledge, expertise, traditions and practices are important to women of all ages, parts and religions from various communities in many countries in Southeast Asia.
” The dress reflects the country’s shared history and customs, as well as its cultural variety, contributing to the success of sustainable development goals such as superior knowledge, gender equality, inclusive economic growth, and harmony and social cohesion”, she said.
The government intends to advance the kebaya and tom yum fu as Thai soft power in fashion and food, both.