Phatthalung held the "Preserving Nora Art" event, a grand effort to safeguard cultural wisdom heritage, with 710 Nora performers participating in the ceremony alongside a Nora competition for the Royal Trophy.
On 3 Apr 2026 GMT+7, reports stated that at 17:30 on 2 Apr, at the stage in front of Phatthalung Provincial Hall, Pol. Col. Tawee Sodsong, leader of the Prachachart Party and former Minister of Justice, presided over the opening ceremony of the "Preserving Nora Art, Cultural Wisdom Heritage" event for the year 2026. The event was jointly organized by Phatthalung Provincial Administrative Organization and related government agencies from 27 Mar to 5 Apr 2026.
Phatthalung Governor Sujin Vajakit, Phatthalung Provincial Administrative Organization President Wisut Thammaphet, and their teams welcomed the attendees. The event honored Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn on the occasion of her 71st birthday on 2 Apr 2026.
It also aimed to support, promote, continue, and preserve the local folk art "Nora," which is recognized as a cultural heritage of humanity, ensuring it remains part of Thai society, raises awareness among younger generations, stimulates the grassroots economy, and boosts Phatthalung’s tourism growth. The opening ceremony featured participation from 710 Nora performers from Phatthalung.
The event included many activities such as the Nora competition for the Royal Trophy, student Nora contests at primary and secondary levels, performances of both traditional and modern Nora styles, exhibitions honoring the Princess and showcasing Nora, OTOP product sales, and a walking street market.
In the Nora competition for the Royal Trophy, nine renowned Nora troupes from southern Thailand competed. The winner received the Royal Trophy from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn along with a cash prize of 65,000 baht. The first runner-up was awarded a trophy and 60,000 baht, while the second runner-up received a trophy and 55,000 baht.