Putting the drama to rest! Sabida confirms that Cambodia's membership on the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage board does not affect Thailand's registration of traditional Thai costume and Muay Thai. She explained that UNESCO uses a multilateral system, follows international principles, and lacks absolute authority—no single country can veto others.
On 19 June 2026, Ms. Sabida Thaiset, Minister of Culture, addressed Cambodia's election as a member of the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage under UNESCO's 2003 Convention. Cambodia's term runs from 2026 to 2030. She stated that UNESCO's heritage registration process is multilateral. Thailand has been on UNESCO's Executive Board since 2025 and will continue through 2029 for a four-year term. This Executive Board is the main committee that sets the organization's direction and oversees all UNESCO missions. In the Asia-Pacific group, member countries include Vietnam, India, South Korea, China, Pakistan, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Ms. Sabida affirmed that Cambodia's election to the committee does not affect Thailand's rights to submit registrations. Being a committee member does not grant a country power over UNESCO's review process. UNESCO follows international standards and conducts comprehensive academic reviews across all dimensions. Its work is multilateral; thus, no single country can independently oppose or dispute another country's cultural heritage registration.
Regarding the submissions for intangible cultural heritage registration—especially the traditional Thai royal costume and Muay Thai—Ms. Sabida said the Ministry of Culture is confident in the submitted documentation. The evaluation must undergo academic verification by an independent Evaluation Body. Thailand's academic evidence is complete, including historical data, design knowledge, photographic proof, and documentation of continuous use in Thai society from past to present. The Ministry has closely coordinated on information and confirms the completeness of data in all aspects. They will proceed proactively, cooperating with relevant agencies and closely monitoring the registration status.