Suchart Cites 5 Governments Behind World Heritage Listing, Eyes 7 Temples in Chiang Mai
Suchart Chomklin highlights that securing the World Heritage status for Wat Phra That took efforts across five administrations and announces plans to nominate seven temples in Chiang Mai next.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- The World Heritage listing spaned across five different Thai administrations
- Authorities fulfilled UNESCO requirements by photographing 32,000 ancient artifacts
- Seven temples around Chiang Mai's city wall are lined up for the next nomination
- Festival visitor numbers surged from 30,000 to 200,000 following the announcement
Suchart Chomklin revealed the background behind Thailand's recent cultural heritage achievement, noting that the nomination process required extensive time and collaboration spanning five distinct governments. The initiative began back in 2019 under the administration of Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha, continuing through the premierships of Srettha Thavisin and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, and finally reaching the first and second administrations of Anutin Charnvirakul. Suchart emphasized that this milestone is not the credit of any single government, but rather the result of ongoing diplomatic justification and persistent groundwork.
The process proved highly demanding as Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan carries a 1,500-year cultural history and houses 32,000 ancient artifacts that had to be systematically photographed to fulfill strict UNESCO criteria. Suchart traveled to observe the meeting proceedings in Busan, South Korea, where he noted that leaders of other newly listed nations personally attended to address and thank the committee. The Thai delegation included Suchart in his capacity as Minister of Natural Resources and Environment, Sabida Thaiset as Minister of Culture, and relevant government agencies.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Securing a UNESCO World Heritage designation goes far beyond international cultural recognition; it profoundly impacts local tourism, boosts regional economies, and establishes long-term frameworks for environmental and historical conservation. The rigorous demands requiring detailed documentation of tens of thousands of artifacts illustrate the strict verification standards enforced by UNESCO to ensure authenticity and proper management protocols are actively maintained by the submitting nation.
Looking ahead, Suchart announced that Thailand plans to propose seven temples situated around the old city wall of Chiang Mai for World Heritage listing, a model comparable to Luang Prabang in Laos. This initiative is currently awaiting a site inspection by UNESCO officials. Suchart stressed that achieving heritage status relies heavily on cohesive cooperation between local communities and regional leaders, mirroring the united grassroots support that successfully propelled Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan to international recognition.
"However, some individuals might feel unhappy with the acquisition of this World Heritage status. Such reactions should not occur in this atmosphere. We must be mature and refrain from turning the joy of the entire nation into a political matter."
Suchart Chomklin
Suchart also highlighted the tremendous public response following the publicity, noting that during major religious celebrations such as Visakha Bucha or Makha Bucha days, visitor numbers traditionally hovered around 30,000 daily. However, after news of the World Heritage nomination spread, attendance soared to 200,000 visitors. He urged all sectors to share positive news for the ultimate benefit of the Thai public without exploiting national pride for partisan politics.
Source: Matichon Politics
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