Ayutthaya, Thailand – Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, accompanied by Mr. Passakorn Rangsriwattanasak, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, and officials from the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, visited the Arts of the Kingdom Museum and the Khon Museum at The SUPPORT Foundation of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.
The visit aimed to explore opportunities for promoting Thailand’s cultural tourism while strengthening cooperation in tourism development over the short, medium, and long term.
The delegation was welcomed by senior representatives of the Department of Affairs of Her Majesty the Queen, executives of the Sirikit Institute, and members of the SUPPORT Foundation, who guided the visitors through exhibitions showcasing Thailand’s finest traditional arts, crafts, and Khon performances—one of the country’s most treasured forms of classical performing arts.
During the visit, ministry officials exchanged ideas on expanding cultural tourism while preserving the royal vision of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, whose lifelong dedication to improving rural livelihoods and preserving Thailand’s artistic heritage has left a lasting legacy for the nation.
“Seeing these masterpieces in person—from silk weaving and sculpture to traditional handicrafts—reminds us that they are far more than works of art. They are living pieces of Thailand’s history and enduring symbols of Her Majesty’s compassion for the Thai people. On behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and Sports, it is a great honor to support efforts that commemorate Her Majesty’s immeasurable contributions through these invaluable cultural treasures,” said Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul.
Established on July 21, 1976, the SUPPORT Foundation was founded to create sustainable careers and improve the quality of life for rural communities while preserving Thailand’s traditional arts and craftsmanship. Today, the Foundation operates more than 300 craft centers throughout the country, playing a significant role in safeguarding Thai cultural heritage for future generations.
One of the Foundation’s flagship initiatives is the annual SUPPORT Foundation Khon Performance, which preserves and promotes Thailand’s highest form of classical masked dance drama. The Foundation also supports local artisans by exhibiting and marketing traditional handicrafts, generating sustainable income for communities nationwide.
Mr. Passakorn Rangsriwattanasak, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, stated that the Ministry stands ready to support projects that promote Her Majesty’s royal initiatives through tourism, arts, and cultural learning. Once implementation plans receive official approval, the Ministry will actively communicate these initiatives to the public.
Members of the Ministry’s working team also shared their impressions of the visit.
Ms. Ornsasipat Siriwanporn said that although she had seen the Foundation’s work through the media since childhood, experiencing it firsthand strengthened her pride in Thai identity and inspired her to help promote Thailand’s cultural heritage internationally.
Meanwhile, Ms. Alisa Rattanachaiuchuk emphasized that, as a member of the younger generation, witnessing the beauty of Thai craftsmanship and Khon performances in person deepened her appreciation for Thailand’s cultural legacy and encouraged more young people to experience these invaluable traditions themselves.
The visit also comes during an important year for Thailand. In December 2026, the country is scheduled to hold the Royal Cremation Ceremony of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, The Queen Mother, from December 14–19 at Sanam Luang in Bangkok.
The Ministry of Tourism and Sports reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the dissemination of Her Majesty’s royal initiatives through tourism, arts, culture, and educational activities, allowing both Thai citizens and international visitors to appreciate the enduring value of the artistic heritage she helped preserve.
Those interested in learning more about Thailand’s traditional craftsmanship are encouraged to visit the Arts of the Kingdom Museum in Bang Pa-in District and the Bang Sai Arts and Crafts Centre in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. Both sites serve as important learning centers showcasing Thai arts, craftsmanship, traditional lifestyles, and cultural wisdom.
The Arts of the Kingdom Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays). Admission fees are 150 THB for adults and 75 THB for students and senior citizens aged 60 and above. Mobile phones, cameras, and large bags are not permitted inside the exhibition galleries.
