Thailand is expected to receive positive news next month as the World Heritage Committee considers the nomination of Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan for inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Permanent Secretary for Natural Resources and Environment Raweewan Phuridej said on Friday that the temple has a strong chance of being recognised as a cultural World Heritage site during the 48th session of the World Heritage Committee, scheduled to take place in Busan from 19-29 July. The nomination is expected to be reviewed between 24 and 26 July.
Natural Resources and Environment Minister Suchart Chomklin said an advisory body to the World Heritage Committee had recommended the temple for inscription, citing its outstanding universal value as a site reflecting religious, cultural and spiritual diversity that has been sustained for more than 1,500 years.
The minister said the temple also served as an important centre for the spread of religious influence and artistic traditions across maritime Asia.
The nomination follows more than a decade of efforts by government agencies, including the Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Policy and Planning, local authorities and conservation bodies, to meet international standards in heritage conservation, research and site management.
If approved, Wat Phra Mahathat Woramahawihan would become Thailand’s ninth World Heritage site, the country’s sixth cultural World Heritage property and the first cultural World Heritage site in southern Thailand.
Officials said the inscription would not only mark a milestone for the nation but also support government efforts to promote cultural heritage as a driver of tourism, economic value and sustainable community development while preserving the site’s historical significance for future generations.
