The ceremony honoring the "Prasat Ta Khwai" Heroic Monument paid tribute to the brave warriors who defended sovereignty along the Thailand-Cambodia border, with over 200 female dancers performing a spectacular ritual dance.
On 22 Apr 2026 GMT+7, reporters described the atmosphere at the Prasat Ta Khwai Heroic Monument ritual on Prasat Ta Khwai Hill, Phanom Dong Rak District, Surin Province. Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence, presided over the merit-making ceremony, dedicated to the heroes, and laid a wreath to commemorate the significant event. Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture, also attended the ceremony.
Following that, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence, together with Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture; Mr. Jamroen Waenphet, Governor of Surin Province; Major General Sompop Barawet, Deputy Commander of the 2nd Army Area; and Major General Boonserm Boonbumrung, Commander of the Suranaree Task Force, jointly laid wreaths at the Prasat Ta Khwai Heroic Monument to honor and remember the sacrifices of soldiers who gave their lives defending Thai territory during past conflicts.
The event's highlight was a grand ritual and traditional dance dedicated to the Thai Protector Monument at Prasat Ta Khwai, marking the first such occasion since the end of the conflict when Thai forces successfully restored security in the area. The Bakdai Subdistrict Administrative Organization, in collaboration with Phanom Dong Rak District, organized the event to revive traditions and boost community morale.
The atmosphere was lively, featuring over 200 female dancers dressed beautifully in traditional attire, performing the ritual dance in unison. The event drew the attention of government officials, relatives of the heroes, and many local residents.
Lieutenant General Adul emphasized that this activity holds deep significance for the people of Surin, as it demonstrates that Prasat Ta Khwai is a precious heritage on Thai soil.
Local residents of Bakdai Subdistrict unanimously expressed their joy and pride at being able to perform the tribute dance again and to experience the monument closely. They affirmed with pride that this land is Thai territory, preserved through the sacrifices of the heroes for future generations.
Today's ceremony was not only a merit-making event dedicated to the deceased but also a declaration of strength and assurance in protecting sovereignty, alongside efforts to promote and preserve local culture as an enduring part of Thailand.
Some images provided by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, Surin-Sisaket Office (TAT Surin-Sisaket).
