Experiencing Thai Culture Through Art, Food, and Community
Hendra Saputra Malau
Through a series of cultural events organized by Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, participants experienced the richness of Southern Thailand’s cultural heritage while engaging with local communities. These activities demonstrated how cultural festivals can strengthen intercultural understanding, promote local identity, and create meaningful connections among people from different backgrounds.
Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, regularly organizes cultural activities that bring together students, university staff, and local communities to celebrate the unique heritage of Southern Thailand. Among these were " Aroi Sookjai Saangsan Samphan Year 2" organized by Princess Galyani Vadhana Institute of Cultural Studies, and the 33rd Art & Culture Festival 2026: "Cultural Flow." Both events served as platforms for cultural exchange, allowing participants to experience local traditions while strengthening connections between the university and the surrounding community.
The Aroi Sookjai Saangsan Samphan event transformed the lawn area near the historic Residence of Phraya Phibun Pittayaphak into a lively cultural hub centered around the tradition of making Ashura. The highlight of the day was an energetic Ashura cooking competition among local communities, where participants and visitors could witness the collaborative process of preparing this symbolic dish. This activity went beyond a cooking showcase; it served as a powerful medium to promote the values of sharing, unity, and cultural diversity through the region''s shared culinary heritage.
The celebration continued at the 33rd Art & Culture Festival 2026: "Cultural Flow," where cultural heritage was presented through traditional performances, handicraft exhibitions, creative workshops, local cuisine, and community innovations. The festival illustrated how local wisdom continues to evolve alongside modern creativity, reinforcing the idea that culture is not only a legacy of the past but also an important resource for sustainable social and economic development.
One of the most enjoyable parts of the festival was the variety of interactive activities available for visitors. During the cooking event, I had the opportunity to join in and stir the Ashura mixture with the others. I quickly realized how incredibly heavy it was to stir, which is why a strong sense of harmony is absolutely essential; everyone must stir together in the same direction to make the process smoother. This experience truly highlighted why cooking this dish requires close cooperation and teamwork it is this shared effort that ultimately makes the Ashura delicious and rich with love.
In addition to the culinary experience, I joined a free handicraft workshop where participants created a cute fish-shaped keychain as a souvenir. The festival also offered many other free activities that encouraged students to actively participate rather than simply observe. A complimentary photo booth was available throughout the day, allowing students and visitors to capture memorable moments with their friends and loved ones while receiving printed photographs as keepsakes. Furthermore, the festival featured lively musical performances by student groups and local artists, creating an energetic atmosphere that attracted large audiences. Visitors could also enjoy a unique night market zone, where traditional games, local food, and fun attractions added excitement and made the festival feel like a true community celebration.
As part of the activities, I had the opportunity to accompany international students throughout both events while also participating in the cultural experiences. Walking through the exhibitions, watching traditional performances, joining the workshops, and interacting with local participants provided a deeper understanding of Southern Thailand''s history, traditions, and community values. Although I found several cultural similarities with Indonesia, I also discovered many unique local customs that enriched my appreciation of the region''s cultural diversity.
Looking back, these cultural events represented much more than festivals. They demonstrated how Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, uses culture as a bridge to connect communities, preserve local heritage, and promote international understanding. The combination of educational exhibitions, hands-on workshops, artistic performances, and interactive activities created an inclusive environment where everyone could learn, participate, and celebrate together. For me, these experiences highlighted how cultural events can inspire friendship, strengthen intercultural communication, and leave lasting memories for everyone involved.
