Kyrgyzstan hoped for a fillip for its tourism on Tuesday after the distinctive headgear traditionally worn by its men, the ak-kalpak, won UNESCO intangible heritage status.Inclusion on the prestigious global list “has some very positive aspects for us — including for tourism, to attract tourism to our country,” said deputy culture and tourism minister, Maksat Uulu Damir.UNESCO annually announces a list of cultural artifacts that encapsulate the spirit and heritage of their countries.
Ak-kalpak day has been celebrated on March 5 since 2016 when crowds carried a 3-metre-high ak-kalpak hat around the centre of the capital Bishkek.A parliamentary committee has approved a bill raising the status of the ak-kalpak, putting it on a par with the national anthem and flag.During a parliamentary debate, one lawmaker proposed punishing any act of disrespect to the hat with a fine of 1,000 soms, or around $15.