BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand has proposed “Pha Khao Ma: Multifunctional cloths in Thai life” to be inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. Pha Khao Ma has a strong connection to Thai life. It has been woven for household use and for exchange between communities, as well as being presented as a gift for elders. Pha Khao Ma is a multi-purpose cloth in cotton or silk, about 60-80 centimeters wide by 120-180 centimeters long and made with a large check design or in plain indigo. It is available in all regions of Thailand, and its designs and colors vary in accordance with the identity of each locality.
Traditional uses for the loincloth are amazingly varied and include head cloths, belts, bathing wear, ceremonial shawls, shoulder cloths, towels for drying the body, baby carriers, storage bags, and handkerchiefs. Pha Khao Ma has been elevated to contemporary fashion, tailored into casual wear, suits, skirts, and luxury formal wear. By incorporating modern patterns, colors, and fabrics, this traditional textile is now suited for everyday use and ready for the global stage. (PRD)
