Under its commitment to "Empower Living," AP Thailand, led by Wisanu Suchatlamphong, Executive Director of AP Thailand Group, reinforces its mission to reduce social inequality through the "Preserve, Enhance, and Sustain Thai Arts and Culture" project by providing educational opportunities and skill development for children, youth, and professionals involved in Khon. This effort aims to sustain and enhance "Junior Khon," a national treasure in the field of performing arts, and elevate its global recognition.

Khon, an intangible cultural heritage of Thailand, is an exquisite art form that intricately weaves together literature, music, dance, craftsmanship, costume, accessories, and headdress design. The creation of Khon performances requires a significant investment of time, effort, and resources from all involved, resulting in a performance of unparalleled elegance and sophistication. This art form has not only captivated Thai audiences but also created a lasting impression on the global stage. Khon is notably the first Thai cultural heritage to be recognized by The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), listed as a Representative of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2018 under the title "Khon, masked dance drama in Thailand."

Mr. Wisanu Suchatlamphong, Executive Director of AP Thailand Group, shared that "It is a great honor for AP Thailand to contribute to the preservation of Khon, a valuable and intricate national art form. We’d like to extend our appreciation and support for the private institutions committed to carrying on and expanding this cultural legacy, making it a source of Thai pride. Over the past 30 years, AP Thailand Group has prioritized reducing social inequality while at the same time promoting Thai arts and culture. Our key goal is to Preserve, Enhance, and Sustain these valuable cultural traditions within Thai society and the global community, through efforts focused on three key areas: Preserve by creating new projects or activities that elevate Thai arts and culture while retaining their charm, identity, and value Enhance by supporting the work of various organizations in conserving and promoting Thai culture and Sustain by collaborating with experts to further develop the existing projects for lasting impact."

Dr. Putthichai Chotipradit, Director of the Ekkachon Karn Lakorn Institute, added, "The collaboration of various sectors, including the private sector like AP Thailand Group, is crucial in preserving Khon, a high-caliber art form of Thailand. Their support is invaluable to those working both onstage and behind the scenes, encouraging them to continue sharing their knowledge, skills, and experiences in Khon, ensuring that this national treasure remains revered and widely recognized."

Khon was listed as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2009 and later officially added to UNESCO s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2018.

“Personally, I have closely followed the annual Royal Khon performances, which have been a sophisticated blend of traditional art and modern techniques. Each year s Royal Khon performance showcases this timeless art in a contemporary, magnificent, and captivating way, making it a source of pride for all Thais,” said Mr. Wisanu Suchatlamphong. He noted that learning Khon instills discipline, leadership, teamwork, physical strength, focus, perseverance, and patience in students. Performing while wearing the Khon headdress limits vision, so performers must develop exceptional concentration, ingenuity, and dedication. AP Thailand Group, along with its subsidiaries, is proud to support Thai Khon, allowing children, youth, and all Thais to experience, appreciate, and take pride in this cultural heritage.

This project is part of the "Preserve, Enhance, and Sustain Thai Arts and Culture" initiative by AP Thailand Group. With a commitment to utilizing the organization s resources to foster harmonious and joyful living within Thai society, the project also aims to drive the conservation of Thai arts and culture. It seeks to ensure that people of all ages understand, appreciate, and actively participate in "Passing Down, Preserving, and Sustaining the Nation’s Cultural Heritage" with pride and dignity.

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