Phanu Uthairat celebrates the World Heritage recognition by ordaining to fulfill a vow after helping advance Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan’s successful UNESCO registration.
On 26 July 2026, Phanu Uthairat, president of the Thailand Pencak Silat Sports Association and former governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat province, underwent ordination to fulfill a vow. This followed Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan in Nakhon Si Thammarat being inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Former colleagues and devotees joined the ceremony to share in the merit.
Phanu, who previously served as governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat and was a key figure in the sustained campaign to secure Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan’s World Heritage status, had vowed to ordain if the nomination succeeded, dedicating the act as a Buddhist offering and fulfillment of his promise.
After UNESCO officially recognized Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan as Thailand’s newest World Heritage site, Phanu proceeded with the ordination ceremony according to his vow. The event was joyfully attended by family, friends, former colleagues, and the local people of Nakhon Si Thammarat who came to share in the merit.
The inscription of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan as a World Heritage site is a source of pride for the people of Nakhon Si Thammarat and all Thais. It highlights the outstanding value of this cultural heritage site recognized internationally and represents a significant step toward preserving and passing on the nation’s precious heritage for future generations.
