Cave exhibition shows paragon of Thainess

On June 23, when the 12 boys of Chiang Rai’s Wild Boars Football Academy and their young coach parked their bicycles and embarked on another excursion into Tham Luang, a cave within a rideable distance from their usual training ground, they didn’t know that there would be heavy rain while they were inside. They didn’t know that they would be trapped by flood waters. They had no idea either about the unprecedented phenomenon that would happen next. The team’s disappearance drew to Tham Luang thousands of people, from military men to volunteers from across the country and across the globe who joined forces in a mammoth search and rescue mission the entire world was watching. Starting today, details of the historic operation are explained and actual equipment used are put on display at the “Tham Luang Incredible Mission: The Global Agenda” exhibition, taking place on the 2nd floor of Siam Paragon. The exhibition is divided into seven zones, covering different aspects of the mission — from the various people involved, their expertise and selfless dedication to the delicate rescue procedures and borderless joint efforts that made the operation one of the most beautiful success stories of mankind. Of course, information on the more than 10km-long cave system of Tham Luang, one of the longest in Thailand — as well as that of the Tham Luang - Khun Nam Nang Non Forest Park that the cave is a part of — is also provided. Visitors to the event will also have the chance to get first-hand experience of what it is like to be in pitch black conditions similar to the deep interior of a cave. The “Tham Luang Incredible Mission: The Global Agenda” exhibition is organised by the Ministry of Culture. It will continue until Sept 9. There is no entrance fee.