On 15 May 2024, H.E. Ms. Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia was invited to the opening ceremony of “The Forgotten Tradition of Limar Weaving” exhibition at the Museum of Asian Art, University of Malaya (UM), Kuala Lumpur. The ceremony was presided over by H.R.H. Tuanku Zara Salim, the Queen of Perak Darul Ridzuan, whereby Toh Puan Dato’ Seri Hajjah Dr. Aishah Ong and YBhg. Tan Sri Dato' Seri Diraja Ramli bin Ngah Talib, Pro-Chancellors of the University of Malaya, Tan Sri Zarinah Anwar, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the University of Malaya, the university management, as well as over 60 art collectors were also present.

 

Upon the Royal arrival, the Ambassador was among the distinguished guests to receive the H.R.H. Following the UM Chairman’s welcoming speech, the H.R.H. gave an officiating speech, emphasising the importance of Limar weaving promotion and preservation through relevant stakeholders’ collaboration on research, publication and exhibition in order to attract public’s attention as equivalent to those of Songket and Batik, and to not let the Limar heritage be swallowed up by time. Furthermore, the H.R.H. also shared insights on the history of Limar weaving which had long been practiced across the Malay Peninsula, including in Pattani.

 

The Ambassador, together with distinguished guests, was taken on the exhibition tour where over 70 UM Limar collections were showcased, including Limar fabric from Pattani. While observing the demonstration of Limar weaving, the Ambassador extensively exchanged views and information with other invitees. In addition, the Ambassador also visited the art exhibition of the museum, which was established in 1954 with the first item on record, a bronze Buddha head from Chiengsen period, being given by Mr. Krassri Nimanamhasminda, the then Thai senator. Today, the museum holds over 7,000 treasures, including Ban Chiang potteries, Sukhothai stoneware, and water jar from Buriram.

 

“The Forgotten Tradition of Limar Weaving” Exhibition at the Museum of Asian Art, University of Malaya is open to public until 24 August 2024.