Phuket: Culture Minister Sabida has inaugurated the 15th Sea Gypsies' family reunion, themed "Sea Gypsies Stand Strong with Ethnic Laws," where she discussed policies to promote multicultural understanding and the utilization of cultural capital to improve quality of life, in alignment with the Ethnic Law's ethos. She commended the enduring strength of the Sea Gypsies community in Laem Tuk Kae, Phuket Province.
According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Sabida Thaiset, the Minister of Culture, visited the Urak Lawoi community in Laem Tuk Kae, Rassada Subdistrict, Mueang District, Phuket Province, to preside over the opening ceremony and present policy initiatives during the 15th Sea Gypsies Reunion. Her engagement highlighted the significant contributions of the Chao Ley ethnic group to national development through their unique cultural traditions and social capital. These efforts are integral to maintaining the country's resources and fostering sustainable practices.
The Minister conveyed her admiration for the Chao Ley ethnic group and other ethnic communities across the nation. She noted the recent enactment of the Ethnic Groups Way of Life Protection and Promotion Act B.E. 2568 (2025) by His Majesty the King, a milestone achieved through the collaboration of the Ministry of Culture, government bodies, and civil society. This law seeks to protect the cultural rights of Thai ethnic groups, fostering a multicultural society where diversity is understood and respected, and encouraging ethnic group involvement in sustainable national growth.
Ms. Sabida emphasized that the law's implementation involves four key components: the National Committee for the Protection and Promotion of Ethnic Livelihoods, the Ethnic Livelihood Protection and Promotion Council, an academic framework for documenting ethnic histories, and the Ethnic Livelihood Protection Area. These elements aim to facilitate participatory resource management and ensure community and agency collaboration.
During her speech, the Minister expressed appreciation for the cultural richness and unique identity of the Chao Le ethnic group, stressing the importance of collaboration to safeguard and promote their lifestyles in accordance with the law. She congratulated the Chao Le and other ethnic groups on the legislative achievement, ensuring the preservation of their cultures and wisdom with dignity. The Minister also conveyed gratitude towards the Chao Le network across five provinces and various supporting organizations, reaffirming the government's commitment to equitable support for all ethnic groups, leveraging cultural capital to achieve a dignified and harmonious coexistence in a just society.