Community UNESCO Recognises Three Thai Works as Memory of the World Heritage 2025

[Georgealbert]

 

Pictures courtesy of Matichon.

 

UNESCO has officially recognised three Thai cultural treasures as part of its prestigious Memory of the World Register for 2025, highlighting the country’s rich literary, religious, and diplomatic heritage.

 

Ms Sasikan Watthanachan, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister’s Office, announced the news on Friday, stating that the Department of Fine Arts had reported the successful inclusion of the following three Thai entries among a total of 74 newly listed items worldwide:

 

 

1. The Manuscript of Nanthopananthasut Kamlaung

 

This ancient Buddhist scripture, authored in 1736 by Prince Thammathibet Chaiyachet Suriyawong (commonly known as Prince Kung), is a significant example of Thai classical literature. It is preserved at the National Library of Thailand under the supervision of the Department of Fine Arts.

2. The King of the White Elephant Film and Related Archival Documents

 

This historical film and its associated documents have been recognised for their cultural and cinematic value. The film is housed at the Thai Film Archive, while related documents are kept at the Thai Studies Institute, Thammasat University. The work reflects important themes of peace and leadership.

 

3. Archives on the Founding of ASEAN (1967–1976)

 

This entry includes vital documents detailing the formation of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a collaborative submission by Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore. The documents are also preserved at the Thai Film Archive.

 

Thailand now has a total of nine entries on UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register. These include the Ramkhamhaeng Inscription, Wat Pho Epigraphs, King Chulalongkorn’s Administrative Reform Records, the Vajirayana Library Glass Plate Negatives and Original Photographs, and other significant historical manuscripts and meeting records.

 

“This recognition underscores the literary, religious, and cultural importance of Thai heritage, not only for the nation but for all humanity,” said Ms Sasikan. “It is a reminder of our responsibility to preserve and pass on this invaluable legacy to future generations.”

 

Those interested in exploring Thailand’s registered Memory of the World documents can visit the official website of the National Archives of Thailand at https://www.nat.go.th/mow/th-th.

 

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Matichon 2025-04-27.