February 10, 2026 – Walailak University, through its Center for Student Promotion and Development, recently held the 2026 “Tuad Tumpang” Merit-Making Ceremony. This annual tradition highlights the university’s mission to preserve arts and culture by integrating local spiritual beliefs into the campus community’s way of life. Professor Dr. Sombat Thamrongthanyawong, President of Walailak University, presided over the event, joined by over 300 administrators, staff, students, and local residents at the Tumpang Archaeological Site.
The ceremony is a cornerstone tradition organized by the Department of Arts and Culture to pay homage to “Ong Tuad Tumpang,” a sacred guardian spirit revered by the local community since long before the university’s establishment. This year’s event was particularly significant as it served as a spiritual blessing for the “Tumpang Silapakarn” (Cultural Center), a new architectural landmark that is now nearly 100% complete.
According to local folklore in Nakhon Si Thammarat, “Tuad Tumpang” is the guardian of the ancient site, often envisioned as a majestic king cobra protecting the land. Historical evidence indicates that the area was once a major religious hub for both Brahmanism and Buddhism. Consequently, the university’s ceremony harmoniously blends Brahmanic rituals to honor deities with Buddhist merit-making to dedicate merit to ancestors, fostering morale and unity among the Walailak community.
In this event, personnel from the Administration and Correspondence Affairs participated and, during the ceremony, worked as a team in preparing and performing duties during the religious ceremony.
