ข่าววิชาการ-วิจัย-สัมมนา

12–13 July 2025, Chian Yai, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand — Architecture students from Walailak University have joined forces with local residents to help restore Daeng Temple’s Ordination Hall, a historic Buddhist temple in Khao Phra Bat Subdistrict. The initiative aims to preserve cultural heritage and strengthen community engagement through hands-on conservation work.

Led by Asst. Prof. Tanasun Tapparut from the School of Architecture and Design and the Head of the Daeng Temple Ordination Hall Conservation Project, supported by the Center for Academic Services, the activity brought students on-site to collaborate with Phra Ajarn Wichian Phromwisut, temple committee members, and villagers. Additionally, volunteers worked to clean roof tiles and wooden structures of the ordination hall in preparation for termite-proofing treatment. Also, a historic pavilion, previously relocated to the front of the temple grounds, was also carefully moved back to its original position beside the ordination hall.

Earlier phases of the project involved reinforcing the building’s foundation and removing damaged roof tiles. Only deteriorated structural components were replaced, while any intact materials were preserved. Timber used for the repairs, including rare takhian wood (Iron Wood), was donated by local residents.

The next stage of the restoration will focus on reproducing traditional kab kluay (banana rib-shaped) roof tiles — a nearly lost local craft. New molds will be created to manufacture replacement tiles, while knowledge of this artisanal technique will be passed on to community and local schoolchildren to preserve the craft for future generations. In addition, traditional stucco decorations around the base of the ordination hall will be recreated in their original form.

This activity aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities (making cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable), and SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals (fostering collaboration with relevant networks and agencies).