UDON THANI, Thailand – Culture Minister Sabeeda Thaised has visited the Ban Non Kok traditional weaving community in Udon Thani province to promote its red lotus-dyed silk and explore opportunities to generate income through cultural heritage. The community is known for its traditional Khit weaving techniques and natural dyes made from red lotus flowers collected from the Chiang Ruang stream.
One of the community’s best-known products is red lotus-dyed Mudmee-Khit silk featuring the Lai Sai Than Nak Chiang Ruang pattern, which received a national Gold Award under the Cultural Product of Thailand (CPOT) program. The award-winning textile combines traditional craftsmanship with patterns inspired by the area’s natural surroundings and cultural heritage.
Ban Non Kok has also gained recognition for its local cuisine and community-based tourism. In 2023, it was named one of Thailand’s ten outstanding model moral communities, while its red lotus petal sticky rice parcels received recognition under the One Province, One Local Menu program. These achievements have helped promote the community as a destination for visitors interested in traditional crafts, local food, and cultural experiences. Sabeeda discussed plans to support product development, expand access to new markets, and encourage younger generations to preserve traditional skills, creating more employment opportunities and sustainable income for residents. (NNT)
