On 22 May 2025, Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the United States, and Ms. Chuliepote Isarankura Na Ayudhaya, Minister and Deputy Chief of Mission joined the Spouses of Team Thailand Officials in Washington, D.C., in attending “ASEAN Couture: A Tapestry of Style and Heritage.”

The event was co-organized by the ASEAN Spouses’ Circle in Washington and American University to celebrate UNESCO’s recognition of the kebaya, a traditional Southeast Asian women’s garment shared by five ASEAN Member Countries - namely Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand - as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in December 2024.

Highlights of the event included an exhibition and presentation of the kebaya, showcasing diverse textiles from ASEAN Member Countries. The program also featured Cultural Performances and a Luncheon with cuisine from across the ASEAN Region, offering guests a rich cultural experience.

The event successfully promoted the Rich Cultural Heritage of ASEAN, enhanced Public Awareness of the region’s importance, and underscored Thailand’s unique cultural identity and soft power on the global stage.