Permanent Secretary of Interior Advances Royal Initiative 'Thai Fabric for Enjoyable Wearing' to Train Youth in Handicraft Development Toward International Sustainable Fashion
A royal initiative to preserve and promote Thai textile heritage and sustainable fashion held its fifth workshop in Chiang Mai, training youth in handicraft development under the patronage of Princess Siriwannawaree Nariratana Rajakanya.
On May 2, 2569, at the Yuniman Hotel in Chiang Mai, Artsisdh Sampaththarat, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, along with Chinnaratcha Sampaththarat, President of the Interior Ministry Women's Association, presided over the opening of a workshop titled 'Project to Build Awareness and Promote Royal Excellence in Upgrading and Developing Thai Textile and Handicraft Heritage Under the Royal Initiative of Princess Siriwannawaree Nariratana Rajakanya,' the fifth operation point.
The event featured consultants and experts in Thai textiles including Thananrat Thansethakar, Dr. Srinida Jamraman, Dr. Kroglod Kamsuk, Assistant Professor Dr. Rwitep Musikapan, Dr. Kittisak Yaowavanon, Dr. Thisiruk Potawanich, and Dr. Prawa Rujinrong as speakers. Attendees included Rathapol Naradisorn, Governor of Chiang Mai Province, along with governors from neighboring provinces and representatives from the Thai textile industry.
Artsisdh noted that Princess Siriwannawaree Nariratana Rajakanya has demonstrated remarkable dedication in supporting the royal initiative and advancing Thai textile and handicraft heritage in a sustainable manner. Her royal vision combines traditional textile artistry unique to each region with contemporary fashion perspectives through the 'Thai Fabric for Enjoyable Wearing' initiative, which has gained widespread popularity across all ages and genders while creating employment and elevating Thai textiles internationally.
The Princess has played a crucial role in advancing Thailand's cultural and creative industries at an international level, notably receiving UNESCO recognition and a commendation medal on July 18, 2568, for her contributions to cultural heritage preservation and promotion. She has championed various initiatives to promote indigenous Thai weaving, including the Don Koy Model Project, the Na Wa Model Project, the Batik Learning Center Model, and the Thai Fabric for Enjoyable Wearing project.
Artsisdh further noted that the Princess proposed registering the 'Thai suit' as an intangible cultural heritage in 2569, reflecting the beauty and uniqueness of Thai culture rooted in the royal vision of the late Queen Sirikit. Throughout her work, she has provided numerous approved textile patterns and established the 'Sustainable Fashion' certification mark for environmentally-friendly textile and handicraft producers, demonstrating her long-term vision for advancing handicraft arts while protecting the environment.
Artsisdh expressed honor and delight at the gathering, noting that Chiang Mai is a province rich in cultural arts and valued traditions, particularly Thai textiles, which represent invaluable national cultural heritage.
