ASSIGNMENT 2: ARTICLE ANALYSIS

[Emily Mofadi]

Related article
https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2594709/keeping-poor-kids-at-school
The article is about a young boy who had to drop out of school due to his parents inability to afford his education. Mr Kalasit believes that more lenience and autonomy from the government could prevent students like Saming from dropping out of school. By providing more support for low income families and offering more flexible options for education, students like Saming can have a better chance of staying in school.
I think it would be helpful to do spider the potential causes of the issue, the impact it is having on individuals and possible solutions to address it. I believe Thailand education government has to improve communication channels, provide additional resources or support and implement effective leadership strategies and also might be beneficial to involve stakeholders in the decision making process, things would be so much better for all.
Overall this article is worth reading as it is giving me an in depth knowledge of what is happening in Thailand education system and how to eradicate some of the issues one can come across as an educator

[Emily Mofadi]

Hello Kate.
You’re indeed right but I believe that we need to move towards more personalized, student centred approach to education that focuses on developing critical thinking, problem solving and creativity. This means moving away from one size fits all approach to education and towards a system that recognizes and nurtures the unique talents and abilities of our learners

[Frank Curiel]

https://thai.news/news/thailand/pattayas-new-drainage-tunnel-a-game-changer-for-flood-prevention-in-2024

I used the above-referenced article to learn more about how Pattaya and similar areas are coping with flooding issues.

After my recent summer vacation, I began to follow the daily happenings in the Pattaya and Chonburi locations. One discussion that frequently appeared concerned flooding of the streets following major rainfall.

Watching many videos, I witnessed how severe this flooding could be. The danger to traffic and open front businesses was clearly evident. The concern for me was how the flooding could be a potential health issue as sewage rose to the surface and poisoned the flood waters even more.

This article presents the solution of creating an underground, two meter wide tunnel to redirect flood water into major, neighboring rivers. It appears a too good to be true solution. However, it does come with its fair share of concerns. Some detractors believe raising road levels would be a better solution. Others are skeptical of local, political corruption possibly foiling the plan even before it begins.

Personally, I would like to see this plan implemented as soon as possible. The concerns and risks of continued flooding are real. Being conscientious of people’s health should be paramount. Such an improvement would also make the area more conducive to enhanced tourism.

[Frank Curiel]

https://thai.news/news/thailand/pattayas-new-drainage-tunnel-a-game-changer-for-flood-prevention-in-2024

I used the above-referenced article to learn more about how Pattaya and similar areas are coping with flooding issues.

After my recent summer vacation, I began to follow the daily happenings in the Pattaya and Chonburi locations. One discussion that frequently appeared concerned flooding of the streets following major rainfall.

Watching many videos, I witnessed how severe this flooding could be. The danger to traffic and open front businesses was clearly evident. The concern for me was how the flooding could be a potential health issue as sewage rose to the surface and poisoned the flood waters even more.

This article presents the solution of creating an underground, two meter wide tunnel to redirect flood water into major, neighboring rivers. It appears a too good to be true solution. However, it does come with its fair share of concerns. Some detractors believe raising road levels would be a better solution. Others are skeptical of local, political corruption possibly foiling the plan even before it begins.

Personally, I would like to see this plan implemented as soon as possible. The concerns and risks of continued flooding are real. Being conscientious of people’s health should be paramount. Such an improvement would also make the area more conducive to enhanced tourism.

[Keotshepile Leboko]

https://www.sohohouse.com/en-us/house-notes/issue-006/art-and-design/bangkok-booming-art-scene-biennale-2022
This article highlights and celebrates the art scene in Thailand. The article further articulates the importance of having art interwoven into the social fabric of the country and aims to commemorate and celebrate Thailand’s history and its vibrant culture. Bangkok Art Biennale and Ghost 2565 are at the helm of impressive art exhibitions and events which have ensured that art in Thailand transcends Thai borders to be enjoyed by the world, and especially by art enthusiasts.
Beyond the former, the Riverside Chanel dinner hosted by Chanel to celebrate the Ghost 2565 launch is symbolic of the collectivist nature of the Thai people. The dinner appeared to be swanky with guests getting to ride in the longtail boat which (longtail boat) boasted as a featured art piece at the Bangkok Art Biennale. Above all, art is important, it serves as a form of expression but also serves to preserve the culture and history of a nation. It is for this reason that events like Baan Soho Celebrations create a conducive environment for creatives, artists and art lovers to connect and break bread over the intricacies of art and its impact on society.
I love art and how it brings people together, I also love the social cohesion which is embodied and reflected by the Thai people. I love the principles of collectivism and the positive impact they have on society. It shows ubuntu (ubuntu is an isiZulu phrase, loosely translated: it means to have humanity) and empathy.

[Keotshepile Leboko]

Hi Michelle, thank you for your summary of The Forest Monks article. It was refreshing to read. Your summary goes to show that once the novelty of what is deemed a “controversy” (in this case, the activism of the monks) wears off, overtime the very thing that is frowned upon becomes socially acceptable and beneficial to people. I love how the monks were steadfast in implementing their strategies to highlight the importance of nature and its impact on their spirituality, and more so to promote sustainable development and preserve the forests for posterity. The monks’ plight to halt deforestation showed detractors the negative impact deforestation would have on the principles of Buddhism which comprises of kindness and compassion for all living things as you have eloquently put in your article.

[Elizabeth Leidecker]

Article https://www.cnn.com/2024/09/24/asia/thailand-same-sex-marriage-intl-hnk/index.html titled “Thailand’s King Signs Landmark Same-Sex Marriage Bill into Law”

This article outlines the push and acceptance of the bill legalizing same-sex marriage in Thailand. While Thailand is known for being inclusive, the conservative values of the older people persist making change difficult. This law is being endorsed by King Maha Vajiralongkorn and will be effective 120 days after this article was written on September 24, 2024. This means that the bill will be effective in January 2025 making it the third Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage.
This bill is also an attempt to achieve gender equality by changing the legal vernacular from “men and women” to a more gender-neutral alternative. The acceptance of this bill could mean a more inclusive future for Thailand. When teaching the new generation of Thailand, these leaps can give students the courage to be themselves and allow them to be more hopeful for the future.

[Elizabeth Leidecker]

Hi Emily,
As someone who came from a low-income family in the United States, I can understand how difficult it can be trying to go to school while also trying to help your family make ends meet. I completely agree that more governmental support for these children and their families would allow for more kids to graduate and work towards a better life for them and their families. Additional resources and support could be life-changing for those families. It is also important for the teachers themselves to be vigilant of these students and help them where they can.

[Frank Curiel]

As a foreigner soon to be residing in Thailand, the costs, conditions etc of condos and other residential accommodations are a concern. I have read many similar accounts of scams, as well as other unethical conduct by developers and owners. It is safe to say that we all should not take finding housing lightly. The caution you express has definitely reaffirmed my desire to seek some basic, legal assistance from a bilingual Thai native who may help me secure a sound economical deal. I will Google information, but would you know of existing resources to help navigate this area?

[Tyrone Govender]

Society, politics and education will impact your experience in Thailand from the moment you arrive and throughout your first days to weeks fulfilling your best trip endeavors through local facets. This is how you could be affected by each individual topic:

Society:

One of the prominent qualities of Thai society is appreciation for respectfulness, politeness and harmony. Here are several important norms to be aware of as a visitor:

Be considerate of the monarchy — Thailand’s revered monarch is protected by some of the world’s strictest laws, with severe penalties for insulting the King or royal family. This includes things like criticizing or even just disparaging the monarchy. As a traveler, one should always be cautious not to cross the line when talking about politics.

Politeness and etiquette: When in public civil peace should be maintained. For example, using a peaceful tone of voice in conversation, especially public spaces. Cultural norms also dictate the importance of dressing modestly especially when visiting temples. Tourists should also not put their hands on the head of people since the Thai culture views the head as a holy place; be careful with body language.

Petty Cash – Religion and spirituality: Buddhism is central to Thai life. Buddhist temple, shrine and ceremony are common features for visitors. It’s paramount to remain respectful as you visit these locations—the classic etiquette of, removing your shoes, dressing modestly, and refraining from pointing your feet at sacred objects or people.

Being mindful of these important cultural rules as a tourist will help you refrain from accidentally putting your foot in your mouth and give you an opportunity to dive deeper into the local culture.

Politics:

Thailand’s history of political protests, military coups and royalist/pro-democracy rivalry makes its political landscape often complex. Now here is how politics might impact you:

Political sensitivity: Politics might be a touchy subject. As a tourist, talking about politics is not unlawful; however, discussing the monarchy or arguing political matters might make many residents uncomfortable and could result in legal challenges in specific situations. One of the harshest in the world, Thai lese-majesté law, against defamation of the monarchy, even extends to foreigners.

Demonstration and Protest: Demonstrations will not affect tourists directly on the aspect of safety, however large demonstrations or political unrest can affect your travel plans when you are in Thailand especially in Bangkok. All large protests could end in road blocks, and could affect transportation so best to keep an eye on the local news every once in a while, and avoid politically active areas during you stay.

For travelers, the advice is to stay aware of the situation and not engage in political debate unless you know it’s OK or avoid any political rallies or protests.

Education:

Education in Thailand is not something that will affect short term travelers, but if you plan on being an expat in Thailand or a long-term resident of the Kingdom or even traveling with children this may be information of interest to you.

International Schools – If you are hoping to settle for a longer period of time or if your children will be travelling with you, international schools are very popular among expats. Such schools follow an American or British curriculum and provide English-medium education. That may not mean anything to you as a traveler — unless you have children — but at least if English is your child shinmaker you know they can get some quality schooling here.

Language gaps: Public education in Thailand is improving, but the most common language of instruction is Thai. Most people in places like Thailand speak some English, though language barriers can be more prevalent in areas away from the more touristy locales. Knowing some simple Thai phrases is also essential to enjoy your trip especially in the countryside where you will struggle communicating if you do not know any local language.

• Educational tourism: If during your trip you’re looking for opportunities to learn about Thai culture, history or language, there are numerous educational opportunities, such as cooking classes and cultural workshops available. It can take your trip a step further as you now fully understand the local way of living in Thailand.

In conclusion, if you are a traveler heading to Thailand, knowing what they hold in regard in terms of monarchy, political sensitivity surrounding certain topics and education (especially with children or long term travel) will help your trip run smoothly. Understanding their cultural ways and having an overview of political conditions subjectively gives you a good time experience locked with safety.

[Robert Evans]

If you are coming to Thailand, make sure to check out a Thai boxing match. A wonderful sport that mixes traditional Thai martial arts with some facets of western boxing.

Also referred to as Muy Thai, is the national sport of Thailand and personally my favorite sport to spectate. The sport of Muy Thai can date its origins back to the 16th century during the reign of King Naresuan who would host Thai boxing matches during the Kingdom’s annual festival. Thai boxing obtained regional popularity in the 18th century when competitors from Laos, Cambodia, Myanmar and Thailand would travel the countryside and faced one another putting on a spectacle for their fans. During WWI Thai boxing gained its western audience when Thai solders would put on Thai boxing matches in Europe to boost troop morale. This introduction to the west also influenced the sport, adding weight classes, gloves and moved the fights from the fields into the British structed boxing ring.

Muy Thai exploded in the 20th century, becoming Thailand’s national sport. The country had stadiums constructed the first being Rajadamnern stadium and foreigners from all over the world came to Thailand to not only watch but learn and compete in the ancient sport. Thai boxing reached its peak in the 1970’s now referred to as the golden age of Thai Boxing where Thai boxers were viewed as the best the world had to offer. The sport grew into a global phenomenon by the 1990’s and now the best Thai boxers have become household names such as Rodtang and Superlek who’s super fight had over 100,000,000 views and was televised around the world.

If someone plans on coming to Thailand make sure they do not miss out on a Thai boxing event so they can also share the same wonderful experience that the Thais have been for centuries.

The Article I choose: My article: https://muaythai.com/thai-boxing-muay-thai/

[Florian Vallecillo]

https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/2902883/ai-to-help-raise-access-to-quality-education

The article discusses Thailand’s Ministry of Education’s initiative to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into schools to address educational disparities. Deputy Education Minister Surasak Phancharoenworakul highlights plans to use AI platforms to connect high-quality teachers with remote schools, creating more equitable opportunities for students. This approach leverages technology to help students learn anytime and anywhere. The project has also trained educators to improve teaching standards, inspired by successful models like Wat Ban Palad Puk School, which enhanced its curriculum with community involvement, resulting in improved test scores. As someone visiting Thailand, this initiative resonates with my interest in education and technology. Observing how AI transforms education in underserved areas could offer insights into global applications of such technologies. Additionally, it aligns with cultural immersion, as I could explore how these changes affect Thai society and engage with local schools or educational hubs to better understand these advancements.

[Florian Vallecillo]

Thank you for sharing such an insightful perspective on Thailand’s art scene! I completely agree that events like the Bangkok Art Biennale and Ghost 2565 not only highlight the country’s rich artistic heritage but also foster global appreciation for Thai culture. It’s inspiring how art can serve as a bridge, connecting people across different cultures while preserving history and fostering empathy. I also love how the longtail boat, a traditional symbol of Thai life, was transformed into a piece of art that could be both admired and experienced. This speaks to the innovative ways Thai artists honor their cultural roots while engaging with contemporary audiences. As someone who values the communal aspect of art, I’m curious how such events can continue to nurture these values in an increasingly digital and globalized world.

[Isabel Clissmann]

Article: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2024/9/25/thailand-to-allow-same-sex-couples-to-marry-in-january

This article discusses Thailand’s new marriage equality bill which will allow same-sex couples to get married in Thailand from January 22nd 2025 when the legislation is set to take effect. The bill was signed into law by King Maha Vajiralongkorn earlier this year on September 24th after passing through the Thai House of Representatives and the Senate with overwhelming support. The marriage equality bill will grant full legal, financial and medical rights, including adoption and inheritance rights, for marriage partners of any gender.
This bill makes Thailand the first country in Southeast Asia to legalise same-sex marriage, and the third country in Asia overall after Taiwan and Nepal. The significance of this bill has therefore attracted attention from activists and international observers alike as a “monumental step” for equal rights. Thailand has a long-standing reputation for tolerance towards the LGBTQIA+ community, but despite this reputation, many LGBT people in Thailand still face barriers and discrimination in everyday life due to the prevalence of traditional and conservative values.
As someone moving to Thailand from Europe, I found this article interesting for a number of reasons. In my opinion, the new marriage equality bill is an important victory for human rights in Thailand; in Ireland, I have many friends and family members who are part of the LGBT+ community so the significance of this bill has a personal resonance for me as well. Furthermore, I thought this article was interesting because it alludes to certain norms and contradictions within Thai culture that might seem unusual to a Westerner. For example, the decision to legalise same-sex marriage in Thailand is quite politically progressive, yet the article also notes that Thai culture is generally conservative and that the country suffers from political instability. The apparent contradiction between these conflicting aspects of Thai culture is an intriguing insight into a complex country and culture which I hope to get to know better during my stay.

[Isabel Clissmann]

Hi Jeshin, thank you for offering an excellent summary and for drawing my attention to this interesting article. As someone who has experience working in tourism, I think it is interesting to see that the recent emphasis on tourist distribution and off-peak tourism that we see in Europe is also a priority for officials in Thailand.

The article’s discussion of the ‘Tourism for All’ initiative is particularly interesting in light of the Diversity and Inclusion in Thailand module of this course. Since there is currently a lack of facilities for people with disabilities living in Thailand, I will be interested to see whether the ‘Tourism for All’ initiative might provide an additional incentive to improve disability facilities for the wider population too. The influence of tourism on Thailand’s economy, and the knock-on effects on popular culture are something I expect I will experience first-hand as a foreigner in Thailand.

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