News

Walailak University (WU) officially marked a milestone in environmental education with the soft opening of the Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Natural History Museum, also known as the SIRIN MUSEUM, on 18 December 2025. Developed with a budget of over 350 million Baht, the facility is now the largest and most comprehensive natural history museum in Southern Thailand.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Mr. Somchai Leelanoi, Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat, alongside Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University. The event was attended by university executives, distinguished guests, and members of the press at the museum’s Bussarakum Meeting Room.

The museum’s name was graciously bestowed by Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn in 2021. Operating under the concept "Following the Path of the Conservationist Princess: From Mountain Peaks to the Deep Sea," the museum aims to be a premier learning hub for natural history and biodiversity.

Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, emphasized that the university is dedicated to transforming its expansive 9,545-rai campus into a Royal Educational Park. This initiative aims to honor the legacy of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX) and actively support the Plant Genetic Conservation Project under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.

“Our commitment to sustainability is reflected in our recent ranking by UI Green Metric World University Rankings 2025, where we were named the No. 1 green university in Southern Thailand for the sixth consecutive year,” said Professor Dr. Sombat. “The SIRIN MUSEUM will serve as a vital engine in promoting the sustainable use and conservation of our natural resources.”

The museum features eight distinct exhibition zones that take visitors on a journey through Thailand’s rich ecosystems. According to Associate Professor Dr. Suwit Wuthisuthimethavee, Vice President, the exhibits showcase the university’s research and the interconnectedness of local environments - starting from the heights of Khao Luang Mountain, descending through the Pak Phanang River Basin, and reaching the shores of the Gulf of Thailand.

Mr. Somchai Leelanoi, Governor of Nakhon Si Thammarat, stated that the SIRIN MUSEUM is a source of pride for the people of Nakhon Si Thammarat and the entire southern region. He noted that the facility elevates local eco-tourism and lifelong learning to international standards. The Governor expressed his confidence that the museum will attract tourists and interested individuals, providing significant educational and economic benefits to the province.