Tags, Stamps, and Circular Signs: The Movement to Establish a University Driven by Public Demand
Chiang Mai University is the first university of the Lanna people, born out of a struggle and public demand for the establishment of a higher education institution in Northern Thailand. The newspaper Kon Muang played a particularly prominent role during that era, publishing a campaign from June 6 to July 24, 1953—eight consecutive weeks—through its editorial section and the column Ok Khuang under the headline “Should a University be Established in the North?” This opened the door for free public discourse and expression of opinions. The intensity of the movement was further demonstrated through the creation and distribution of tags, stamps, and circular signs bearing messages such as:
In the North, we want a university. Join the fight to bring a university to our region.
The campaign was also strongly supported by front-page newspaper headlines, including:
"Fight with all your heart for the university of Lanna Thai" and "For the dignity of the northern people, we must have a university of Lanna Thai."
H.E. Mom Luang Pin Malakul. Founder and the One Who Laid the Foundation for Chiang Mai Universityas the First Regional University in Thailand
In 1960, the Cabinet passed a resolution approving the establishment of a university in Chiang Mai Province, with the aim of commencing instruction in 1964.
H.E. M.L. Pin Malakul, in his capacity as Minister of Education, served as the Chairman of the Preparatory Committee for the Establishment of Chiang Mai University. He carefully devoted time to the planning process, including:
* Defining the university's mission and goals
* Establishing foundational policies
* Surveying and selecting the site
* Designing the campus layout
* Developing curricula and instruction plans
* Preparing facilities and infrastructure
Opening Ceremony of CMU – January 24, 1964
Chiang Mai University, the first regional university in Thailand, was established in accordance with government policy and the will of the people in the northern region, to serve as a center for higher academic and professional education.
The first academic term began on June 18, 1964, and the university had the great honor of receiving royal grace from His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who presided over the official opening ceremony of Chiang Mai University on January 24, 1965.
Foundation Stone Laying Ceremony of Chiang Mai University Building
Chiang Mai University held a foundation stone laying ceremony for one of its buildings (now known as Sala Tham) on October 2, 1962.
The ceremony was presided over by His Excellency Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat, the Prime Minister at the time.
University Motto
Pali Proverb: “Attānaṃ damayanti paṇḍitā” Meaning: “The wise discipline themselves.”
University Buddha Statues
Phra Phuttha Thotsaphon Chinnarat /
Phra Phuttha Phingkanakhon Aphimongkhon
Phra Phuttha Hariphunchai Suphamongkhon
University Color
Dok Rak purple
Purple: Reflects the Payap Region’s traditional magenta tone. CMU uses a distinct Dok Rak purple, since other local institutions use magenta.
University Flower: Thong Kwao Flower (Flame of the Forest)
Thong Kwao Flower
The Thong Kwao (Flame of the Forest) is a tree species naturally found on the university grounds. It blooms beautifully during the winter season, mostly in vibrant orange, with occasional yellow blossoms.
In the early years, students who were fans of the Suntharaphon band composed a charming university song inspired by this flower.
The beauty and vivid colors of the Thong Kwao have greatly contributed to a joyful and uplifting atmosphere, making it truly deserving of being recognized as the official flower of both Chiang Mai University and Chiang Mai Province.