BANGKOK, Thailand – Ruj Klumsri won the top prize at the “New Gen Young Designer 2024” competition, held on Oct 28 at Suralai Hall, ICONSIAM. The event, which celebrates rising talents in Thai fabric design, was attended by prominent figures, including project advisor Dr. Wandee Khunchornyakong Juljarern, Deputy Minister of Interior Sabida Thaiseth, and Community Development Department Director-General Siam Sirimongkol.
Organized under the royal patronage of Princess Sirivannavari Nariratana Rajakanya, the competition brought together 40 finalist teams from across the country.
Ruj was awarded 200,000 baht, a sewing machine, and an iPad, with a commemorative medal from Princess Sirivannavari to follow. The first runner-up award went to NurDin Waekaji from the Sirindhorn Textile Group in Pattani, and Thanachporn Worathongchai from Bangkok took the second runner-up position.
Princess Sirivannavari, dedicated to preserving Thai cultural heritage, has been instrumental in renewing interest in traditional Thai fabrics. Her introduction of the “Princess Sirivannavari pattern” has spurred growth in the textile sector, with eight unique fabric designs generating over 80 billion baht in sales and revitalizing the craft of weaving.
The competition represents Princess Sirivannavari’s commitment to passing down traditional skills to younger generations through expert mentorship, fostering a sustainable future for Thailand’s fabric industry, and preserving its cultural heritage.
