On August 1, 2025, Thailand celebrated its National Thai Language Day with a series of vibrant events aimed at preserving and promoting the Thai language among younger generations and the wider public. The Ministry of Culture spearheaded these efforts, emphasizing the importance of the Thai language as the nation’s cultural backbone and a vital tool for identity and communication.
The Ministry of Culture’s main event, held at the Thailand Cultural Centre’s Main Meeting Hall, was themed “Jointly preserve Thai language, the language of the nation, cultivate linguistic wisdom sustainably.” Mr. Prasop Rianngoen, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, presided over the ceremony, joined by key officials such as Mr. Panomboot Chantharochote, Director-General of the Department of Fine Arts, and Ms. Yuthika Israngkura Na Ayutthaya, Director-General of the Department of Cultural Promotion. This gathering brought together government leaders, artists, singers, and cultural figures to celebrate and inspire pride in the Thai language.
A highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious “Diamond in Song” awards. These awards recognize outstanding contributions in the realm of Thai music that skillfully blend language, literature, and musical artistry. The Department of Fine Arts honored 20 recipients, including composers and singers who have demonstrated excellence in using the Thai language in their works.
Among the awardees was Sala Khunwut, who won the top prize for Thai folk song composition with his piece “Isaan Hearted Woman.” Payap Khamphan earned the award for composing the life-affirming song “Fight for Life,” while Phonphol Pholkongseng was recognized as the outstanding male singer of Thai international pop with “Want to Know if You Care.” Other winners included Nun Anan for Thai folk male singing with “Can I Flirt with You?” and Warapol Nawaphaka, also known as Notty Freedom, for male life-song singing with “Fight for Life.”
Payap Khamphan shared his heartfelt feelings about the award, saying, “For this award, it is a great honor organized by the Ministry of Culture. It is a wonderful recognition that promotes the Thai language among artists and preserves Thai culture. I am very proud that ‘Notty Freedom’ received the award for the song ‘Fight for Life,’ which is my composition given to him. I wrote this song with spirit and feeling. Everyone is born to fight in life without giving up. The Thai language will remain the root of songs even as times change.”
Notty Freedom added, “This song was composed to encourage those who are feeling down or facing crises. Life always has a tomorrow. I want everyone to keep fighting. Thank you very much for the award.”
Meanwhile, in Chiang Mai, the Secondary Educational Service Area Office organized a special competition titled “Reading Comprehension PISA” as part of the National Thai Language Day activities. Held at the Lan Ngern Meeting Room in the Chiang Mai Provincial Hall, this event aimed to foster love and pride in the Thai language among students and to develop critical reading and analytical skills aligned with the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) standards.
Dr. Chainont Nilaphat, Director of the Chiang Mai Secondary Educational Service Area Office, delegated Ms. Worawi Danthong, Deputy Director, to preside over the opening ceremony. The competition featured 38 students from 20 schools, split evenly between early and late secondary education levels, with each school sending one student per level.
The focus of the competition was to enhance students’ analytical thinking, critical reading, and effective communication—skills deemed essential for success in the 21st century. During the opening remarks, the presiding official encouraged participants to perform at their best without worrying about the outcome. “All participants are already winners by gaining experience and developing themselves,” she said. “This foundation is crucial for lifelong learning.”
Earlier on August 1, the Ministry of Culture also hosted an event to encourage the public and youth to preserve and pass on the Thai language, highlighting its significance as the national language. This annual celebration serves as a reminder of the cultural wealth embedded in the Thai language and the collective responsibility to nurture it for future generations.
These events reflect a broader national commitment to sustaining the Thai language’s vitality through education, arts, and cultural recognition. By honoring artists who elevate the language in music and fostering young learners’ skills, Thailand is weaving a tapestry that connects tradition with modernity, ensuring that the Thai language remains a living, breathing part of everyday life.
As the nation moves forward, the blend of cultural pride and educational innovation showcased on National Thai Language Day 2025 offers hope that the language will continue to thrive amid changing times. The Ministry of Culture’s efforts, combined with grassroots enthusiasm from schools and communities, create a powerful momentum to keep the Thai language vibrant, relevant, and cherished.
