Bangkok: The Ministry of Culture has launched an investigation into claims that Cambodia has registered 22 Thai literary works as part of its intangible cultural heritage with UNESCO. The action followed the dissemination of information on social media suggesting that Cambodian authorities incorporated these works, originally created by Thai authors, into their cultural heritage registry.

According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Prasop Riangngen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, confirmed that the ministry has been informed of these allegations and has instructed the Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion to work in coordination with the Fine Arts Department, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and other relevant agencies to investigate the matter thoroughly. The investigation aims to verify the claims and gather factual information regarding the registration of these literary works.

The investigation process is expected to take some time, as the Department of Cultural Promotion needs to meticulously review and filter the information. The Ministry of Culture assured that once comprehensive and clear information is obtained, an update on the progress would be communicated.

The controversy arose after a Facebook post by user ‘JanJao K. Sisprakaew’ claimed that Cambodia had successfully registered these Thai literary works with UNESCO under the designation of ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage of Cambodia.’ Cambodia allegedly used the literary works in the Royal Ballet of Cambodia, asserting that they were revived between 1979-2002 from the play ‘Phra Thong Nang Nak,’ originally written in 1930.

The list of disputed works includes significant Thai literary pieces such as ‘Kraithong’ by King Rama II, ‘Phra Samut’ by Krom Phra Ratchawang Bowon Wichaichan, and ‘Inao’ by King Rama II, among others. These works are deeply rooted in Thai culture, with origins tracing back to the Ayutthaya period and contributions from notable figures like Sunthorn Phu and King Rama I.

The Ministry of Culture is committed to resolving this issue diplomatically and ensuring the protection of Thailand’s cultural heritage on the international stage.