Greetings

Greetings all readers,
Please do take the time to read this entry post as it provides instructions for you to navigate within this blog.

At the end of this page, please click on the "Older Posts" found just right at the end in order to view
- Point G) What is Thailand known for
- Point I) The Disneyization of Thai Society
- Point J) Changes brought about by the growth in tourism
- Point K) If tourism has caused the commodification of cultures and traditions

Thank you and do enjoy reading this blog!

Introduction of Thailand - Sawatdee Kha!

To many, Thailand is often viewed as the representative of the East as mysterious and exotic.  However, you might not know that they are often called “The Land of the Smiles”, as they are remarkably known to be open and friendly. It is the only South East Asia nation never colonized by an European power, as well as the first country in Asia to establish diplomatic relations with the United States. Besides the ancient temples and palaces, Thailand is also a major tourist destination, particularly for their beach resorts.

Thailand was known as Siam until 1939, changing to “Prathet Thai” which mean “Land of The Free”. However, after World War 2, it reverted back to Siam again but became known as Thailand in 1949.

It lies in the heart of Southeast Asia, bordering to the West and Northwest by Myanmar, northeast by Laos, east by Cambodia, south by Malaysia, and extending like an elephant’s trunk south between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman sea. Thailand, with a total area of 513,000km² roughly the size of France and shaped like a tall tree leaning to the right.

There are four primary regions in the country; the North, Central Plains, Northeast and South. 75% of the population are Thais, 14% are Chineses, while Malay, Indians, Mon, Khmer and the indigenous hill tribes consist of 11%. 

Culture of Thailand

The culture of Thailand can be categorized into two types. They are mainly the intangibles such as the values and attitudes, as well as tangible items like buildings and artefacts.

The Emerald Buddha

Thailand’s architecture has been shaped by a blend of diverse cultures, leading to a fusion of Western, Chinese, Cambodian, Burmese designs. Much of the rich architectural heritage is found in temples and palaces. Also, the four main Eras in the history of Thailand, namely the Srivijaya, Sukhothai, Ayutthaya and Rattanakosin period depicts architectures differently, through the use of buildings’ materials and structure. Architectures in each period are influenced greatly by the different kinds of cultures. Kings earned displayed power of their kingdoms by building temples as it is regarded as one of the important buildings in the land, leading to permanent materials used in the construction only.

One of the famous palaces in Thailand would be The Grand Palace. It is a must see attraction that no visit to Bangkok would be complete without it. It is located on the eastern bank of the Chao Phraya River and it was built around Thailand’s most important temple, Wat Phra Kaew, where The Emerald Buddha is placed. It is a complex of buildings constructed in 1785 by King Rama I to announce the beginning of the Chakri Dynasty. It served as the official residence for the kings of Thailand until 1932 when monarchy comes to an end. The Pra Thinang Dusit Maha Prasat (throne hall) has a Greek-styled floor plan, while the most noticeable Western influences are found in the Phra Thinang Chakri Maha Prasat (Great Hall) as it was designed by a British architect. Since it looks Western in appearance, a Thai-styled roof was given to appease conservative voices of the people. However, there is one truly “Thai” building located in there, which is the Sanam Chan Pavilion where the Kings used to relax at.

Ban Chiang prehistoric pottery

Ban Chiang Archaeological Site is one of the oldest archaeological sites in the world, dating back to the Bronze Age. It was granted the title of a heritage site in 1992 by UNESCO. It was discovered by an American college student, who fell in the road of the Ban Chiang and thus, found ceramics eroding out of the road bed. Excavations were conducted in 1967, revealing evidence of prehistoric occupation as early as 3600 B.C. It provides us a glimpse of the peaceful village life of a bygone age, making it the most important sites in Southeast Asia.
Now, let us look at the intangible forms of culture, the attitudes and values of the Thai, which are mostly shaped by their strong Buddhism faith.

Firstly, Thai people will always know where they stand in the society. They will accept their position in life unquestioningly, with their Buddhism belief as the contributing factor. If they have a low status in life, it must be because of misdeeds committed in previous life, and vice versa if they lead a virtuous life. This belief was built on the moral law of Karma in Buddhism.

Secondly, positions in the civil service are relatively preferred though the pay is low as it gives one prestige and status. Office ladies will keep long fingernails to prove that they don’t perform menial tasks. Thai women will shield themselves from the sun because pale complexion depicts a high status. It is considered shameful if the Thais do something others view as dishonourable. Thailand was one of the biggest markets for Mercedes Benz cars in 1990s because status is shown by the clothes they wear and the cars they drive. This clearly explains the importance of status and face in a Thai’s eyes.

Thirdly, Thais regard people of different nationalities as equals since they had never been colonized before. Since young, they were instilled with the fact that Thailand is “Buddha’s own country”. They make it a point to be clean and well dressed because a smart appearance reflects self-confidence. Do not criticise anything about their monarchy and religion as it is considered disrespectful.

Since Thailand is a close-knitted society, it is important to maintain social harmony. They believe one should live harmoniously with one’s neighbours and follow the Buddhist middle path that urges followers to avoid extremes. There is also a history on how positive social harmony comes about. In the past, rural communities often cooperate with one another to survive. They work together in the rice fields; reap their sow together and meet up for traditional celebrations. This explains why Thais will always keep their cool, avoid arguments and strengthen links by doing people favours.

Lastly, the top of the head is the most important part of one’s body because they believe this is where the spirit (kwan) resides. Apologies must be said if you accidentally touch a Thai’s head. However, patting a child’s head is acceptable. Thai kings used to sit on a high throne so that their subjects’ heads were below the level of royal feet. If the head is the most important part of a body, then the feet of one would be the least important. Do not point anything with your foot, or even leaving it on a table. This is regarded as height of rudeness. The only exception made is Thai boxing where one’s feet are allowed to touch the opponent’s head.

Traditions of Thailand

Even Ronald McDonald greets with a wai in Thailand!

Status, class, seniority and all reflected in the traditional Wai gesture. It acts as a greeting, farewell, prayer or apology. To many, it is Thais’ way of saying “hello”. Children are brought up to respect the elders and it is customary for a younger person to bow to a senior. Thus, the lower rank person has to initiate the wai first. Press your palms together, with fingers pointing upward as though in prayer and then incline your head forward in salutation. The greater the difference in rank, the lower the head is inclined and the higher the wai should be. Seniors can acknowledge such gesture with a smile or return the wai, but without lowering the head. Apart from greeting each other with the Wai gesture, Thais address elders by adding a “Pi” before their names and a “Nong” for children.

There is no Thai official costumes although there are unofficial “national costumes” based on traditional styles depending whether it is a formal and informal occasions. For women, this is a full-length dress called the paisin. Made of Thai silk, it is worn like a sarong with a long sleeved silk blouse. Coloured silk sash will be worn from left shoulder to right side of waist for formal occasions. For men, a white short long sleeved cotton or silk jacket with a very high neck and no collar, called a sua phra ratchathan is worn. Coloured silk cummerbund is added on formal occasions. Since appearance reflects one’s status, Thais do not wear tattered or revealing clothes. Generally, men wear long trousers and button shits and women  with blouses or pants and sarongs.

Traditions are changing, in the context of genders in Thailand. Arranged marriages are no longer a common sight and men are increasingly involved in household responsibilities. Women used to ignore or tolerate adultery, but now, they have the capability to confront their spouse personally and legally. There is also a rapid decrease of wives begging the forgiveness of their husbands in New Year’s ceremony, which used to be an ancient practice. Experts think that the key to such gender dynamics change is polygamy. In the early 1920s when King Vajiravudh introduced reforms, polygamy came to be seen as a symbol of the country’s backwardness and violation of Buddhist precepts. Even though having multiple wives is still practice among the rich and influential Thais, it is no longer socially acceptable as how it used to be.

Buddhism really does have a huge impact on the Thais’ lives. About 50% of young Thai males undertake vows of a minimum of 3 years monkhood before the age of 18. This is also a tradition of Buddhist families. This can bring merit to the whole family as they learn about Buddhist history and philosophy. Some of the Thai kings had also become monks for short periods of time. Thais like to perform good deeds so as to gain merits, and this can be in monetary or non-monetary forms. They will present food, money and gifts to the monks, buy a caged bird and set it free afterwards, or even build a temple if their financial ability allows so. However, women are not allowed to have any physical contact, verbal communication or even offer gifts to a monk, thus having to make ways when they cross each other’s paths.

When you visit a Buddhist temple, do exercise due respect such as observing their dress code. Men who wear shorts with T-shirt and women wearing sleeveless tops or shorts will be denied entry. It is also mandatory for one to take off their footwear before entering a temple or house. Buddha images are sacred and are to be treated with respect. Hence, avoid taking photos while standing in front of the statues as it is deem as sacrilege.  

Ratchaphruek is Thailand’s national flower and is yellow in colour because it represents the colour of Buddhism and Thai royalty. It blooms annually from February to May. Roots, bark and leaves of the trees are all used in herbal medicines. In addition, elephant is also considered as Thailand’s national animal. It is a symbol of peace, wisdom, strength and longevity. The white elephant is a sacred animal and is often seen as a royal symbol in court celebrations and ceremonies. Their death is regarded as an omen of tragedy. It is widely represented in sculptures and paintings throughout Thailand. It was also featured on the Siamese national flag until 1917.

Thai traditional massage is known to ease body aches, mental stress and is a holistic approach to attain inner tranquillity. The key to attaining such results is by focusing on the energy that flows along designated channels (sen) in the body. Through the use of reflexology and stretching, blockages are reduced and imbalances in the sen are restored. In order to ensure traditional massage skills are being passed on to the younger generation, Wat Po Thai Traditional Medical School in Bangkok offers such courses.

Even though Thailand adopted the sophisticated Western medical care system, it still practices traditional Thai healing, particularly in the rural areas. In the past, Thai traditional practitioners of different regions do not communicate much, leading to unique healing techniques, names and categories of medicine being developed over the years. For instance, Turmeric is a primary ingredient in Thai healing. It is also used for cosmetics and treatment for stomach ailments. In addition, the lemongrass, known to contain aromatic stress relieving properties serves as a medical herb to solve headaches.

Indigenous Groups

One part of Thailand’s population consists of the smaller ethnic groups, also commonly named as hill tribes or indigenous groups. It was estimated that these indigenous groups has a population of 750,000 people. There are currently 7 main indigenous groups, namely the Karen (Yang), Hmong (Meo), Yao (Mien), Akha, Lahu (Musur), Lisu, and Lawa. However, not all are native to Thailand, as some moved over to this land from other countries as a form of shelter when there were wars in the past.

The original tribes of these groups are animists, which mean that all things even in the lifeless forms have souls or spirits. Yet, Globalization has lead to an exposure of different cultures and religion to them, with some converting to Christianity or Buddhism. These indigenous groups have their own unique culture and customs that is totally different from the Thais in the city. I will be covering on 3 of the most prominent hill tribes.


1) Karen (Yang)

Karen Hill Tribe

Karen people were originally from Myanmar but wars have resulted in them seeking refuge in Thailand in the 18^th century. They are the largest tribal group in Thailand, with a population of 350,000. It is sub divided into four main groups, Black Karen, Padung, White Karen and Red Karen. They are renowned for their weaving skills and striking traditional dresses. Also, Karen women believe a woman’s beauty is defined by how elaborated and detailed the designs of her clothes are Unmarried women are seen wearing simple thick woven v-necked white blouses with vertical stripes while married women’s tops are decorated with beads. Karen men wear black shirts with red cummerbunds and head scarves. They are self sufficient in terms of growing their own cotton, spinning it into threads and dye it. Padung Karen is well-known for their giraffe-necked women. As young as two years old, they will start to wear heavy copper neck rings, hence elongating the neck. There are many myths as to why such custom is practiced. One of them is that they believed it will make women look unattractive to their enemies so they would not be taken away as slaves or wives. However, by doing so, it will actually harm the growth and structure of their spine as such copper neck rings will push their collar bones several centimetres down.


2) Akha

The poorest of the hill tribes, Akha originated in the Tibetan highlands or Yunnan, China, before migrating to Burma then to Northern Thailand. There are an estimated number of 20,000 Akha people living in this country. Even though they are dressed in black, they still look distinctive because of their unique headwear which consists of aluminium balls, silver coins, white beads topped off with coloured strands of silk. Women wear black leggings in various horizontal bands of colours with a black skirt. A coloured pouch will be seen tied around their waist. Akha men wear basic black pants and shirts. Like Karen, they are also self sufficient and good in embroidery skills. Akha tribes like to build villages on mountain ridges which is very high altitude because it guarantees fresh water and good farmland.

Akha's best styled hat

Akha village

3) Hmong (Meo)

Most of the Hmongs live in China, their homeland. However, some have migrated to the United States, Vietnam, Laos and Myanmar. Only 130,000 Hmong people still live in Thailand. They are classified into two divisions. The Blue Hmong wear pleated batik-patterned skirts, black satin jackets with red and orange embroidered cuffs. White Hmong women wear indigo-dyed trousers with jackets that have blue cuffs. The White Hmong men wear a black decorated and embroidered jacket with Chinese style three-quarter length trousers. Hmong women wear their handmade silver jewellery to indicate wealth in the tribal group. Hmong designs often incorporate batik and embroidery, causing their clothes to be regarded among the more intricate of the hill-tribe costumes. Traditional Hmong beliefs are strongly animistic, and most of them have resisted conversion to other religions. Hmong tribe has an interesting piece of jewellery called the “soul lock” that claims to keep the soul in the body. 

Soul Lock

Their Languages

The official language in Thailand is Thai, with it being the most commonly spoken language by one regardless of their ethnic. Ramkhamhaeng the Great, the third ruler of Sukothai Kingdom, (c. 1239-1298) invented the Thai alphabet in the late 13^th century developed by Sanskrit, comprising of 44 consonants, 32 vowels and 5 tones in Thai pronunciation. Other languages spoken in Thailand are Chinese, Lao, Malay and Mon-Khmer.

Thai language is tonal, referring that words of the same sound are differentiated in meaning by various tones. The Standard Thai has five tones: level, low, falling, high and rising. Thai uses both male and female forms, based on the gender of the speaker. This is shown by the syllable Khrap used for men and Kha for women at the end of sentences. Thai society is very hierarchical. Informal Thai is used with friends of the same age and social rank, formal Thai for elders and people of respect, as well as “Royal” Thai used to address members of the Royal family. Ramkhamhaeng the Great, the third ruler of Sukothai Kingdom, (c. 1239-1298) invented the Thai alphabet in the late 13^th century developed by Sanskrit, comprising of 44 consonants, 32 vowels and 5 tones in Thai pronunciation. Other languages spoken in Thailand are Chinese, Lao, Malay and Mon-Khmer.

Khun is a polite generic form of address employed for new acquaintances and is applicable for both genders. For instance, a Thai meeting a friend named Jane can call her Khun Jane. High-ranking government officials addressed as Than and Ajarn for teach.

English also has become the second language of the country. Such boost is because of the arrival of large numbers of Westerners of the American military. With Thailand as a popular tourist destination and a regional centre for commerce and international organizations, there is also a growth of the number of foreign residents and tourists. English is mandatory in public schools and is now widely spoken and understood. This can be shown by English road signs displayed in many locations of the city. 

Mode of Education

Education policies and laws had always been revised and modified to be responsive to the ever-changing socio-economies conditions. Education is mainly provided by the Thai Government through the Ministry of Education (MOE) in Thailand. There is a free basic education of 12 years guaranteed by the constitution with a minimum of 9 years’ school attendance. Non-formal education is also supported by the state. Also, independent schools are increasingly contributing significantly to the general education infrastructure.

The school year in Thailand is divided into two semesters. Primary and secondary runs from Mid May to March while June to March for higher education.

Pre-primary Education is commonly known as Kindergarten in many countries which learning experience is organized for the physical, emotional, social and intellectual development of children through everyday activities. It is organized by various agencies and classified into 3 types: child development centre, kindergarten and pre-school class.

Primary school education comprises of a duration of 6 years (Grade 1-6) and is for children aged 6 and above. Public primary schools are organized by the MOE through the Office of the National Primary Education Commission (ONPEC) for 80% of children with eligible age. Other MOE departments provide special forms of educational service such as setting up welfare schools for children with special needs. Bureau of Local Education Administration organize primary schools in the remote rural areas.

The primary school curriculum does not just single out subjects into fragmented courses, but also grouped into 5 learning experiences.


1) Basic Skills: Thai language and Mathematics
2) Life Experiences: Dealing with the process of solving social and daily life problems with an emphasis on scientific process skills for better living
3) Character Development: Deal with activities that devlop desirable habits, values, attitudes and behaviour that result in a desirable character
4) Work-Orientated Experience: Handle general practical work experiences and basic knowledge for career preparation
5) Special Experience: Participate in activities based on learner’s interests

For the last point, it is only offered to students in grade 5-6 only. It is organised based on one’s needs and interests, and might include knowledge and skills selected from other four groups such as English for everyday life as well.

Secondary School education also lasts duration of 6 years, with 3 years for Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary respectively. For the Lower Secondary Education, you must graduate from the Grade 6 in Primary school to be promoted to this level. Primary schools under the ONPEC have also provided lower secondary classes in accordance with the government policy concerning the expansion of educational opportunities at lower secondary education levels. In addition, there are also some other welfare schools that offer lower secondary education for the handicapped and disadvantaged. To be promoted to Upper Secondary, you must first pass the Lower Secondary. Welfare, science and sports schools are all organized to cater to different groups of students. The first science high school in Thailand emphasizes on Science and Maths at upper secondary level while sports school provides specialized training in certain sports.

The structure of lower and upper secondary school curricular includes 4 main components.


1) Core Subject: Basic subjects that correspond to life and society and is compulsory
2) Prescribed Elective Subject: Basic subject that depends on the local conditions and needs. Local authorities can prepare the subjects to be offered.
3) Free Elective Subject: Open for learners to choose according to their interests, needs and aptitude.

Students are required to attend 6 years of primary school and first 3 years of high school. Those who graduate from the 6^th year of high school are candidates for two decisive tests: O-NET (Ordinary National Educational Test) and A-NET (Advanced National Educational Test).

Higher education under MOE is provided at diploma and undergraduate levels by Rajabhat Institutes and private vocational colleges, as well as colleges of physical education and dramatic arts.