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Saturday, January 24, 2009
Denial adds to shame
Will someone please tell the army chief and the navy boss to stop making lame excuses? No one believes a word of it. The more they try to defend their horrific act with the Rohingya boat people, the bigger the hole they are digging for themselves. And the greater the harm they are doing to the country.
Thank you so very much for making the whole world see Thailand as a cold-blooded country.
At a time when Thailand badly needs to address its image problem from the coup, violent protests and the crazy airport closedown, the navy - apparently with full backing from other national security agencies - has shown the world how cruel we can be to poor migrant workers, especially when they are dark-skinned Muslims.
Thank you for forcing us to probe into our hearts to see if we can still call ourselves Buddhists.
Honestly, I am a bit annoyed by the way the news was played up in the foreign media, which often plays on sensationalism and moral superiority, feeding on bigotry. But there is not much we can do about that.
What we can do, however, is to look at our own bigotry, confront the problem and ask ourselves why we allow ourselves to be blind to such atrocities. For this was most certainly not the first time that the Rohingya boat people were pushed back to face death at sea. And it would not be the last had it not been exposed by the foreign press, which we must be thankful for.
But we see only denial and defensive reaction on the home front.
The navy and the army insist with deadpan faces that they did not violate any humanitarian standards.
Excuse me, sir. Is towing people out to the open seas, setting them adrift, and allowing them to starve to death your standard of humanity?
Wake up! You have already woken up to the fact that the world no longer accepts your coups. Now it is time to learn that your old-world standard is too poor to be acceptable, too.
The reaction from Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban is equally distressing. He says the whole thing is an attempt to discredit Thailand.
The responses from some local media are no less frustrating.
In sum, they view the navy's move as an effort to protect the country from the influx of the Rohingya, who are feared to have links with the southern Muslim militants.
Besides, Thailand is already swamped with immigrants and refugees from neighbouring countries. Overburdened, they say, Thailand needs help to deal with the massive migrant influx, not condemnation.
And if the international community wants to pin blame on someone, why Thailand and not Burma? Is the international community also to blame for failing to contain the atrocious Burmese junta, leading to the massive migration of the Rohingya and other ethnic minorities?
They may have some valid points. But what good are they if they are used to justify our heartlessness?
Personally, the most shocking reaction has come from my 13-year-old daughter: "But the Rohingya, aren't they illegal?"
They are, I said, but that is no reason to treat them so mercilessly. Waging my personal war against racist nationalism which poisons my girl's head, I told her the Rohingya are a Muslim minority who are severely persecuted by the Burmese military junta. They are the fathers who dared to risk their lives to support their poor families back home. And if we cannot let them stay, we must deport them through legal channels, not make them die at sea.
Her question: Why cannot Thailand do something with Burma to end the mess?
Why not, indeed.
Thai nationalism is notorious for making Thais hate Burma. Yet our governments and military have mostly backed the Burmese generals. It is Burma's oil, gas, timber and gems. It is greed. It is ethnic prejudices that dictate our treatment of the powerless Burmese people.
If that is why, we are now paying dearly for it.
Read commentComment 1
mill 
date : 27/01/2009 time : 04:28
date : 27/01/2009 time : 04:28
Another good blog from you Sanitsuda.You are my favorits.I only thing when you loose yours job telling people truth.
Comment 2
Dop date : 27/01/2009 time : 07:37
date : 27/01/2009 time : 07:37
Theres already an estimated 4 million illegals in thailand if I am correct. Thailand has been too kind with illegals in the past (i.e mass migration of Chinese). I was recently on Koh Tao and was told by a Burmese 'Sorry, we only speak English here.. This is Koh Tao'' (with a big grin on his face). That statement says it all.
Sanitsuda, great writing and how true, I live here and use also to be in the Navy, I also saw what went on with the vietnamese boat people off Australia. No one will admit to wrong doing I am afraid.
Comment 4
pb date : 27/01/2009 time : 11:53
date : 27/01/2009 time : 11:53
I totaly agree on moust off your points!
Iff any army/navy did this in the western world, then they will go to jail for many years!
here in Thailand its ok to block the airport and do a lot off other things, as long its as the military like it!
even killing people are ok for the military, as we have seen many times!
I really like Thailand and moust off the people, and i dont think the "normal" thai will kill people just because they are poor, but at the same time i really think you have to make a desicion to change the system, where the military have more power than the elected goverment!
Now the generals can tell the PM "its time to quite"
Nowhere in the western world, this can happen, and if they tried, its the generals who are going to be layed off.
Iff Thailand want to be a western contry and have our investments, then Thailand have to act like a western contry!
I am not a supporter for bribening, but everyone knows that you can pay your way off for everything here in this contry, just think about the police here!
I must say, that when Taksin was the PM, there was some belives that Thailand would act like a western contry, not like the cartoon like to day!
Iff any army/navy did this in the western world, then they will go to jail for many years!
here in Thailand its ok to block the airport and do a lot off other things, as long its as the military like it!
even killing people are ok for the military, as we have seen many times!
I really like Thailand and moust off the people, and i dont think the "normal" thai will kill people just because they are poor, but at the same time i really think you have to make a desicion to change the system, where the military have more power than the elected goverment!
Now the generals can tell the PM "its time to quite"
Nowhere in the western world, this can happen, and if they tried, its the generals who are going to be layed off.
Iff Thailand want to be a western contry and have our investments, then Thailand have to act like a western contry!
I am not a supporter for bribening, but everyone knows that you can pay your way off for everything here in this contry, just think about the police here!
I must say, that when Taksin was the PM, there was some belives that Thailand would act like a western contry, not like the cartoon like to day!
Comment 5
Sono Somiro date : 27/01/2009 time : 12:53
Sometimes it's necessary to take impopular messures, otherwise Thailand will have the same immigrant-problems they have in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany and the U.K. etc. The international community like E.U. and United Nations should do more to avoid those refugee streams, by putting more pressure on, and having dialogues with, those trouble causing regimes.
Comment 6
Ted. date : 27/01/2009 time : 12:56
date : 27/01/2009 time : 12:56
Do you remember what happen to 50 people of accused of god army soldiers? What happen to all 9th division leader who made that dicision? Every country do what is the best of their country and trust me Thailand can change Burma life in a matter of week if they respect the life of human.
Comment 7
Mike Anders, Los Angeles, CA date : 27/01/2009 time : 15:59
date : 27/01/2009 time : 15:59
Miss Sanitsuda, I applaud your article. I was in Thailand when I read the original story over breakfast. The story gave me more than my meal to digest. Being a visitor in your country I kept my peace, but I have to say I'm very proud of the Thai people who stand up for what's right. Thank you for that.
Comment 8
daveinbalmain date : 27/01/2009 time : 19:04
date : 27/01/2009 time : 19:04
The whole world is watching Thailand over this issue. I am aghast that a nation that professes to be peace-loving, Buddhist and tolerant has embraced such abysmal racism.
Your military has treated these people as worse than animals and your government will be judged in its response.
Your military has treated these people as worse than animals and your government will be judged in its response.
Comment 9
justme date : 27/01/2009 time : 22:13
date : 27/01/2009 time : 22:13
Your country is bloody country. Forced 3 leaders out of their position in less than a year, led the demonstrations left with casualties and injured to civilians and shut down the airport that left hundred thousands of tourist stranded and last but not least is so close to war with Cambodia over the land dispute when it clearly that the temple is belong to Cambodia. All you guys good at is still your neighbouring countries land eg Cambodia and Burma and not to mention sucking to the American government so your government can receive all those military aid from them. Then your government think that they got the strongest army in the South East Asian Region. That’s why your government keep messing with the poorer neighbour countries. Why don’t your government dare to mess with the south?? And you know who Im talking about. By the way…..nice forum.
Cheers
Cheers
Comment 10
Nyi Nyi date : 28/01/2009 time : 01:10
date : 28/01/2009 time : 01:10
I totally agree with you, bcos of greed, thai gov support burmese generals and ignore ordinary myanmar people.you thais are now paying for your gov policy.abhisit or thaksin,or samart... they only look oil and gas,
burmese citizen
burmese citizen
Comment 11
Sen Monorom date : 28/01/2009 time : 01:59
date : 28/01/2009 time : 01:59
Thank you for your refreshing honesty, Ms. Sanitsuda!
We foreigners tire of the usual dishonesty on full display in the daily Thai media with Thailand's mistreatment and bullying of its neighbours. Some of us actually like Thailand and her people minus the crazy racism and false sense of superiority. These really hurt Thailand's standing in the international community.
Please write something with the same brave honesty about the troubled relationship between Thailand and Cambodia. I look forward to reading it very much.
Monorom
We foreigners tire of the usual dishonesty on full display in the daily Thai media with Thailand's mistreatment and bullying of its neighbours. Some of us actually like Thailand and her people minus the crazy racism and false sense of superiority. These really hurt Thailand's standing in the international community.
Please write something with the same brave honesty about the troubled relationship between Thailand and Cambodia. I look forward to reading it very much.
Monorom
Comment 12
Sanitsuda Fan date : 28/01/2009 time : 06:29
date : 28/01/2009 time : 06:29
Great stuff. I hope you have a column in Thai too. Thai people need your writing more than we foreigners do.
Comment 13
Dee Dee date : 28/01/2009 time : 07:01
date : 28/01/2009 time : 07:01
Khun Sanitsuda,
Bravo on your heartbreaking piece. As an American that loves Muang Thai, it is almost irreconcilable to the Thailand I know. Alas, I am just farang, and obviously don't know much. I do know that in your country and mine, inhumane policies against minorites will only change with our influence and voice. Please keep up the great work.
Bravo on your heartbreaking piece. As an American that loves Muang Thai, it is almost irreconcilable to the Thailand I know. Alas, I am just farang, and obviously don't know much. I do know that in your country and mine, inhumane policies against minorites will only change with our influence and voice. Please keep up the great work.
Comment 14
Bob date : 28/01/2009 time : 08:02
date : 28/01/2009 time : 08:02
A briliant and truthful article which explains the situation in a nutshell detailing the lies and corruption of both the politicians and the military who are more concerned about their influence and power in society.The pictures and videos on both the BBC and CNN show graphic details of the plight of these poor poor people. I'm astounded and amazed at the comments of the new prime minister and his deputy stating that these are exagerated statements by the world leading media organisations. A picture is worth a thousand words. For an oxford educated so called academic the words truth and justice seem to be none existant. I had very high hopes that the political system in Thailand will be resolved by Mr Abhisit government. but this I fear is unfounded.The main cause of this problem is the brutal military regime in Burma who have no respect for life whatsoever. This was shown by their murder of thousands of citizens including monks some 12 months ago.
What can be done. Firstly Burma should be expelled from the ASEAN partnership and governments along with the UN should go after these traffickes where ever they are. THESES ARE THE THUGS AND CRIMINALS WHO NEED EXTERMNATING FORTHWITH. I can't understand why Thailand is so sympathetic towards Burma apart from the economic ties. It should never be forgotten what the Burmese soldiers did in AYUTTHAYA.
Crimes against society must be placed against the guilty .
Congratulations Khun Sanitsuda. The diplomatic community are observing the events but don't see any constructive
thoughts. I guess it's back to square one. Such a shame a beautiful country being destoyed by lies, corruption and human greed.
What can be done. Firstly Burma should be expelled from the ASEAN partnership and governments along with the UN should go after these traffickes where ever they are. THESES ARE THE THUGS AND CRIMINALS WHO NEED EXTERMNATING FORTHWITH. I can't understand why Thailand is so sympathetic towards Burma apart from the economic ties. It should never be forgotten what the Burmese soldiers did in AYUTTHAYA.
Crimes against society must be placed against the guilty .
Congratulations Khun Sanitsuda. The diplomatic community are observing the events but don't see any constructive
thoughts. I guess it's back to square one. Such a shame a beautiful country being destoyed by lies, corruption and human greed.
Comment 15
Ichi Ban Spin Doctor date : 28/01/2009 time : 14:29
date : 28/01/2009 time : 14:29
"We have to be careful because we have a deadly muslim insurgency in the south that has killed thousands of people in the past four years" should have been the message to the international media from the moment this ugly story broke.
The international reaction would have been much less negative if this accurate message had been constantly repeated by military and government spokespeople and subsequently broadcast in western countries.
Why isn't the military hiring the right people for the important job of protecting Thailand's reputation? There are expert Issues Managers in this Kingdom, why aren't their skills being utilised?
The international reaction would have been much less negative if this accurate message had been constantly repeated by military and government spokespeople and subsequently broadcast in western countries.
Why isn't the military hiring the right people for the important job of protecting Thailand's reputation? There are expert Issues Managers in this Kingdom, why aren't their skills being utilised?
Comment 16
TAXSIN WESTERN? date : 28/01/2009 time : 14:55
cOMMNET 4 : you wrote "I must say, that when Taksin was the PM, there was some belives that Thailand would act like a western contry, not like the cartoon like to day"
I'm assuming that you mean that "Taxsin would act like a western country" would (in part) be meaning a high level of respect for human rights and fair justice, and a strong anti-corruption platform, etc.
I can't belive that anybody would write such blatant mistruth.
Taxsin hates Westerners and has made public statements to this effect many times.
He once publically called a respected Western journalist "Idiot scum" because he was highly embarrassed by what was a legitimate question. Taxsin several times said "George Bush is not my father".
Taxsin openly sanctioned (instructed) the killing of 2,500 people, including children, without any form of justice whatever in his war on drugs (which by the way was really a personal vendeta). Not exactly a model for good human rights.
Taxsin destroyed the judiciary and frightened them to the point where they became his 'yes' men.
Taxsin scared the Election Commissioners to the point where they were openly biased and Taxsin was utterly shocked when the higher court y got brave enough to find them guilty and sent them to jail.
Taxsin twisted all sorts of situations into strong personal gain (ordering the bank to loan massive amounts of money to Burma).
How can you possible suggest Taxsin's era (which thank god has finished) was 'Western'.
I'm assuming that you mean that "Taxsin would act like a western country" would (in part) be meaning a high level of respect for human rights and fair justice, and a strong anti-corruption platform, etc.
I can't belive that anybody would write such blatant mistruth.
Taxsin hates Westerners and has made public statements to this effect many times.
He once publically called a respected Western journalist "Idiot scum" because he was highly embarrassed by what was a legitimate question. Taxsin several times said "George Bush is not my father".
Taxsin openly sanctioned (instructed) the killing of 2,500 people, including children, without any form of justice whatever in his war on drugs (which by the way was really a personal vendeta). Not exactly a model for good human rights.
Taxsin destroyed the judiciary and frightened them to the point where they became his 'yes' men.
Taxsin scared the Election Commissioners to the point where they were openly biased and Taxsin was utterly shocked when the higher court y got brave enough to find them guilty and sent them to jail.
Taxsin twisted all sorts of situations into strong personal gain (ordering the bank to loan massive amounts of money to Burma).
How can you possible suggest Taxsin's era (which thank god has finished) was 'Western'.
What makes Thailand alive is its middle-class educated society. Democracy powerfully streams into their hearts. Those people defend human-right, and oppose any kind of dictatorships. In addition, those people always stand for the right, and they can see things beyond nationalism, thank to the Mr. Democracy. Without those people, Thailand’s reputation is in danger. I am a Burmese who love both Burma and its neighbor Thailand.
Cheer for your courageous report and thank you so much.
Aung
Cheer for your courageous report and thank you so much.
Aung
Comment 18
Kent date : 28/01/2009 time : 18:57
date : 28/01/2009 time : 18:57
Perhaps Sanitsuda Ekachai will volunteer to solve the illegal immigration problem from Burma by volunteering to take the refugees into his own home rather than making other Thais pay for their upkeep.
Feeding these refugees upon capture in Thai territory is much cheaper than allowing them into Thailand and supplying them with food, clothes & shelter. When there are no jobs to feed them they will turn to crime. Thais and especially farangs will be the target of burglary and robbery. It is not Thailand's responsibility to care for the world's refugees. Illegal immigration is bankrupting the U.S. & just maybe other countries are learning from the mistakes of the U.S.
Feeding these refugees upon capture in Thai territory is much cheaper than allowing them into Thailand and supplying them with food, clothes & shelter. When there are no jobs to feed them they will turn to crime. Thais and especially farangs will be the target of burglary and robbery. It is not Thailand's responsibility to care for the world's refugees. Illegal immigration is bankrupting the U.S. & just maybe other countries are learning from the mistakes of the U.S.
Comment 19
TTU date : 29/01/2009 time : 00:03
date : 29/01/2009 time : 00:03
Said much better than I could ever say. The problem for Thailand is that this is the latest of many abuses that have hit the international media. There is a cumulative effect of these abuses and now they have hit a critical mass where Thailand is very much under the international spotlight.
The Problem needing to be addressed is the Thai relationship with Burma which requires a policy of "no more mr nice guy" until real change starts to happen.
The Problem needing to be addressed is the Thai relationship with Burma which requires a policy of "no more mr nice guy" until real change starts to happen.
Comment 20
samir ghising date : 29/01/2009 time : 01:20
date : 29/01/2009 time : 01:20
Thai Military needs to be held accountable. This has been going on for too long.
No officers were prosecuted for the crime they commited on south Thailand few years ago, when all those young men were killed by the army. Instead the governement went on a goodwill policy by doing all sorts of rediculous agenda, while not holding anyone accountable and not bringing those army officers to justice.
Same is happening again. Thai Army has brought nothing but shame to this country, they are a law onto themselves.
No officers were prosecuted for the crime they commited on south Thailand few years ago, when all those young men were killed by the army. Instead the governement went on a goodwill policy by doing all sorts of rediculous agenda, while not holding anyone accountable and not bringing those army officers to justice.
Same is happening again. Thai Army has brought nothing but shame to this country, they are a law onto themselves.
Comment 21
Sen Monorom date : 29/01/2009 time : 03:10
date : 29/01/2009 time : 03:10
Sometimes I am confused, who is actually in charge of Thailand right now, the government, the military, the Thai people, or others? Would someone please take charge and lead Thailand back to better pastures?
Comment 22
Sen Monorom date : 29/01/2009 time : 03:14
date : 29/01/2009 time : 03:14
Bob,
I think you're the one who needs to be exterminated forthwith. Issues should be resolved peacefully and through diplomacy. Violence is not the way. You yourself sound a bit like the Burmese generals, if I may say.
I think you're the one who needs to be exterminated forthwith. Issues should be resolved peacefully and through diplomacy. Violence is not the way. You yourself sound a bit like the Burmese generals, if I may say.
Comment 23
panther date : 29/01/2009 time : 04:00
date : 29/01/2009 time : 04:00
Great article! It's great to know that there are still some sensible and caring Thai people. There are, however, some and far too many who are arrogant racist hypocrates with warm wai greetings for anyone with power and money. But the poor and the powerless are treated lower than the worms they step on. And when it comes to those who will fight back like the Muslims in the south, they can do nearly nothing! Not that I condone the killing methods of the Muslims. The generals will roll their tanks in the easy streets of Bangkok to oust an elected government , but not in the south. And the government is equally incompetent when thugs hijacked the streets, the government house, and the airports causing billion in lost businesses. The world watched with awes, but nothing was done about it! Any shame?
Comment 24
Former refugee date : 29/01/2009 time : 04:23
date : 29/01/2009 time : 04:23
Thank God or Buddha for Sanitsuda for standing what she believes what's right.
Three PM's out in 1 year? Yeah...that's hhow Thailand operates. The momarchy is protected by the military and people
respect the monarchy, so the military rules the country -- that includes the monarch, too. The govt. is very corrupted and each of the members bought their way by money. If they believe in a democratic system, they should look at how the Western countries run their govs. If the US were to treate any ill-legal person like Thailand, then, both sides of the borders would be filled with bodies. However, the US is perhaps the best example of treating ill-legals. Look at how Thailand treated its fomer partners like Laos and South Vietnam, who were fighting Communist. After the war, it turned its hands upside down and turned agaist its own what used to be called friends. One example would be how it treates the Hmong.
Khun Sanitsuda, please write something about the Hmong too, would you please?
Thank you
Three PM's out in 1 year? Yeah...that's hhow Thailand operates. The momarchy is protected by the military and people
respect the monarchy, so the military rules the country -- that includes the monarch, too. The govt. is very corrupted and each of the members bought their way by money. If they believe in a democratic system, they should look at how the Western countries run their govs. If the US were to treate any ill-legal person like Thailand, then, both sides of the borders would be filled with bodies. However, the US is perhaps the best example of treating ill-legals. Look at how Thailand treated its fomer partners like Laos and South Vietnam, who were fighting Communist. After the war, it turned its hands upside down and turned agaist its own what used to be called friends. One example would be how it treates the Hmong.
Khun Sanitsuda, please write something about the Hmong too, would you please?
Thank you
Comment 25
P Reddy date : 29/01/2009 time : 07:27
date : 29/01/2009 time : 07:27
Obama said "Keep Politics aside" this is what I guess Thailand should do!! Treat people fair no matter from where they are!! I always remember thailand as a "Land of Smiles" and that's slowly vanishing. K. Sanitsuda was absolutely right!! but hope this can reach to the minds of thai people as we foreigners can do nothing much as we are mere spectators.
Comment 26
Saw date : 29/01/2009 time : 18:27
date : 29/01/2009 time : 18:27
Kent,
i think what we are dealing here is not a matter of who should take care of the refugees and these poor migrants.Of course there is no problem with pushing these illegal migrans back to where they come from..It is thailand policy and thailand know better what are the consequences if influx of refugees keep flowing..But the real issue is how we send them back..No matter how illegal or how trouble makers they are, at least they deserve respect and humane treatment..sending them out to sea with little food or poorly equiped boats is a totally different issue beyound any imagination for any good thinking person..And there is no doubt thai people want to be portrayed as humane and good thinking people..remember, it is a land of smile..or is it a land of smile for only rich tourists but not to poor migrants and refugees who even need more help?
i think what we are dealing here is not a matter of who should take care of the refugees and these poor migrants.Of course there is no problem with pushing these illegal migrans back to where they come from..It is thailand policy and thailand know better what are the consequences if influx of refugees keep flowing..But the real issue is how we send them back..No matter how illegal or how trouble makers they are, at least they deserve respect and humane treatment..sending them out to sea with little food or poorly equiped boats is a totally different issue beyound any imagination for any good thinking person..And there is no doubt thai people want to be portrayed as humane and good thinking people..remember, it is a land of smile..or is it a land of smile for only rich tourists but not to poor migrants and refugees who even need more help?
800 plus years ago, Tai tribes moved south to Khmer state in order to avoid Mongolia onslaught and extinction. They came to be part of the Khmer society to include serving in the high court and notoriously the military. Thailand has forgotten about their history. It is not from India or China as they proclaim in their history book and taught in school; rather their history, culture, custom, tradition, social function, social status, celebration, new year, temple, religion, language, skin color, facial expression, food, and many others similarly intertwine and intricately a duplicate of Khmer’s identities (I.D). We are so much alike than unalike.
The tragedy of abused, maimed, killed, murdered, and raped of Cambodian and Vietnamese boatpeople are still fresh on our mind. We pass these cruel stories on forward to our children as a remembrance or memorabilia. The story I hope to aspire and inspire dedication to hard word and education. Many of these refugees have become a lawyer, doctor, and very successful business men and women in America and throughout the world.
Many of us have visited Thailand on leisure and business and for me personally I went to Thailand on a military training with Thai’s Soldiers in Lopburi army base. This occasion bring back many painful memories with Thai’s Soldiers. I remembered living in the refugee camp and was beaten by Thai’s Soldiers, falsely imprison, and many were killed simply because they were Khmers. Khmers of your fellow kinship many hundreds years ago but that was separated by bigotry and false sense of pride and senseless hatred.
I remembered after the training I went to Bangkok with my backpack wondering like a lost refugee and was approached by two Thai’s women and they asked me who am I. I replied that I am a Cambodian and they seem to think that a Cambodian refugee road march in Bangkok looking for a refugee camp in Bangkok. Yes, I have lived in a refugee camp in Bangkok and no I don’t remember where it is and yes I like to know where it is so I can visit it.
Thais are very dedicated Buddhist believer. I like that very much when a taxi driver stop and pray to Buddha. But why can’t they understand the humility, kindness, love, compassion, and help the poor or the needy in time of turbulences, in time of chaos, in time of hopelessness, in time of desperation, in time of trial and tribulation that Buddha taught us all.
On CNN, I saw many of the refugees were beaten with their skin or wounds freshly bruise. Please be kind to those refugees. Thais someday will become a refugee too. 800 years ago, you were and it is bounce to be repeated.
peace
KevinKhmer
The tragedy of abused, maimed, killed, murdered, and raped of Cambodian and Vietnamese boatpeople are still fresh on our mind. We pass these cruel stories on forward to our children as a remembrance or memorabilia. The story I hope to aspire and inspire dedication to hard word and education. Many of these refugees have become a lawyer, doctor, and very successful business men and women in America and throughout the world.
Many of us have visited Thailand on leisure and business and for me personally I went to Thailand on a military training with Thai’s Soldiers in Lopburi army base. This occasion bring back many painful memories with Thai’s Soldiers. I remembered living in the refugee camp and was beaten by Thai’s Soldiers, falsely imprison, and many were killed simply because they were Khmers. Khmers of your fellow kinship many hundreds years ago but that was separated by bigotry and false sense of pride and senseless hatred.
I remembered after the training I went to Bangkok with my backpack wondering like a lost refugee and was approached by two Thai’s women and they asked me who am I. I replied that I am a Cambodian and they seem to think that a Cambodian refugee road march in Bangkok looking for a refugee camp in Bangkok. Yes, I have lived in a refugee camp in Bangkok and no I don’t remember where it is and yes I like to know where it is so I can visit it.
Thais are very dedicated Buddhist believer. I like that very much when a taxi driver stop and pray to Buddha. But why can’t they understand the humility, kindness, love, compassion, and help the poor or the needy in time of turbulences, in time of chaos, in time of hopelessness, in time of desperation, in time of trial and tribulation that Buddha taught us all.
On CNN, I saw many of the refugees were beaten with their skin or wounds freshly bruise. Please be kind to those refugees. Thais someday will become a refugee too. 800 years ago, you were and it is bounce to be repeated.
peace
KevinKhmer
Comment 28
Sen Monorom date : 30/01/2009 time : 01:21
date : 30/01/2009 time : 01:21
"What makes Thailand alive is its middle-class educated society.Democracy powerfully streams into their hearts. Those people defend human-right, and oppose any kind of dictatorships.", commented Aung above.
Aung, are you kidding yourself?
The middle class in Thailand does not want real democracy. They do not want their fellow rural countrymen equally represented in Parliament. Sorry to break your heart, no such thing as democracy powerfully streaming in their hearts, contempt for their fellow rural countrymen and democracy, YES, highly likely. They can be seen in action as represented by the yellow-cladded mobs that occupied the government's office for months and caused the recent chaos at Sovannapumi airport. Aung, these middle class people are for dictatorship, and are the ones active at damaging Thailand's image and fueling Thai nationalism.
Aung, please get your facts right. You have to be kidding yourself!
Aung, are you kidding yourself?
The middle class in Thailand does not want real democracy. They do not want their fellow rural countrymen equally represented in Parliament. Sorry to break your heart, no such thing as democracy powerfully streaming in their hearts, contempt for their fellow rural countrymen and democracy, YES, highly likely. They can be seen in action as represented by the yellow-cladded mobs that occupied the government's office for months and caused the recent chaos at Sovannapumi airport. Aung, these middle class people are for dictatorship, and are the ones active at damaging Thailand's image and fueling Thai nationalism.
Aung, please get your facts right. You have to be kidding yourself!
Comment 29
SR date : 30/01/2009 time : 12:37
date : 30/01/2009 time : 12:37
Sanitduda,
In eight years of reading the Post and the Nation I have never sent in an email. Lately I have taken to just skimming and dismissing- business as usual.. pretty depressing.
Thank you for your blog.. I could hardly believe what I was reading. Thank you for restoring at least some faith in Thais and in Thailand. I will go back and read everything you have written, and I will look forward to hearing from you again.
And thanks to the contributers to this thread. I would never have thought I would see something like this in the Post. Kap khun ma krup, SR
In eight years of reading the Post and the Nation I have never sent in an email. Lately I have taken to just skimming and dismissing- business as usual.. pretty depressing.
Thank you for your blog.. I could hardly believe what I was reading. Thank you for restoring at least some faith in Thais and in Thailand. I will go back and read everything you have written, and I will look forward to hearing from you again.
And thanks to the contributers to this thread. I would never have thought I would see something like this in the Post. Kap khun ma krup, SR
Comment 30
Dukeameye date : 30/01/2009 time : 16:34
date : 30/01/2009 time : 16:34
Great comment! I have a Thai wife and family that lives in Bangkok so I read news from Thailand everyday. The investigation into the fire on New Years Eve and then the stories on the Navy's actions bring to the forefront what most people knwo but try to not see about Thai Government. But in the story I read about the refugees it said they are heading to Malaysia or Indonesia. If that is so then I have to ask are these to countries open to welcoming these refugees? If they are then why aren't ships sent to take them? If the UN wants to help maybe they could send a ship? If the Thai Navy did as written its sad, and I make no excuses but the question is are teh countries that these refugees were heading for willinig to take them in and if they are why aren't sea worthy ships available?
Comment 31
mike macarelli date : 31/01/2009 time : 02:24
date : 31/01/2009 time : 02:24
Sanitsuda wrote a very thoughtful editorial. Does anyone doubt that what the Navy did to the Burmese boat people is not true? The Thais are a very racist society. They are lovely people, but are scared to death of foreigners, and the outside world. The educational system is largely to blame. Two hours of world geography, and not a single lesson in world history, in the course of a high school education, does not enable the Thai people to open their minds to the world. With the economic downturn, perhaps Thais will have to come to terms with the fact that the world really does matter. It is not just about Thailand. Life exists outside the Thai border. In addition, Thailand needs to wean itself of their dependance on Burmese gas. This is why they suck up to that mailcious government. This is why fools like Samak utter nonsense like he said about the Burmese generals being nice guys. Sure they showed him a good time, but does their murderous regime make them nice guys? The Burmese refugees deserve respectful treatment. This, they did not get from the Thai Navy.
Comment 32
Sen Monorom date : 31/01/2009 time : 02:30
date : 31/01/2009 time : 02:30
Kevin Khmer,
I read your comments with interest and agree with many points you made.
I read the Bangkok Post and The Nation newspapers online daily, not because they provide me with any reliable news, but snapshots of contemporary Thai society and values. Sad to say that I am constantly annoyed by the heavily biased and dishonest reporting and editorials, especially on issues relating to Thailand’s immediate neighbours, Burma, Cambodia and Laos. I guess these are weaker neighbours easier to pick on. However, after having read Ms. Sanitsuda’s article above, I feel very encouraged because I now accept as a fact that wonderful and courageous people like her actually exist in Thailand, and probably in very large numbers, too, who now are beginning to make their voices heard, to remind the international community that Thais are not that inhumane a people.
Kevin Khmer, you and I must never allow ourselves to be biased or dishonest in our comments.
I read your comments with interest and agree with many points you made.
I read the Bangkok Post and The Nation newspapers online daily, not because they provide me with any reliable news, but snapshots of contemporary Thai society and values. Sad to say that I am constantly annoyed by the heavily biased and dishonest reporting and editorials, especially on issues relating to Thailand’s immediate neighbours, Burma, Cambodia and Laos. I guess these are weaker neighbours easier to pick on. However, after having read Ms. Sanitsuda’s article above, I feel very encouraged because I now accept as a fact that wonderful and courageous people like her actually exist in Thailand, and probably in very large numbers, too, who now are beginning to make their voices heard, to remind the international community that Thais are not that inhumane a people.
Kevin Khmer, you and I must never allow ourselves to be biased or dishonest in our comments.
dear sanitsuda, i am a farang living in chiangmai for 10 years with my family, and I love thai people. this is first of your blog entries i ever read, i reached it by mistake, but is dammit good written, and i swear to god i will read the others! keep the good work and congratulations!
Comment 34
hanky1313 date : 31/01/2009 time : 07:18
date : 31/01/2009 time : 07:18
From now onwards Thais cannot claim to be kind,friendly and forgiving type of people.Thais have become cruel, selfish and inhuman as shown by what happened in the past three years. Wake Up.
Comment 35
Joe Mitchell date : 31/01/2009 time : 08:32
date : 31/01/2009 time : 08:32
After Thailand's hearltless and cruel
behaviour-- I for one will no longer visit the
WRONGLY NAMED "Land of Smiles" !!
behaviour-- I for one will no longer visit the
WRONGLY NAMED "Land of Smiles" !!
Comment 36
Jane date : 31/01/2009 time : 10:27
date : 31/01/2009 time : 10:27
I have had several friends just cancel their trip to Thailand because of this news and the arrest and sentencing of the Australian man.
Thailand already has a very bad image because of what the PAD did to it last year. Does the army honestly think what they have done makes Thailand look good?
The Burmese refugee issue is now front page news all over the world and Thais are now looked upon as cruel and against human rights. Very sad for Thailand, but if Thailand doesn't start to take care of its image, it's not going to be popular with tourists for much longer.
Thailand already has a very bad image because of what the PAD did to it last year. Does the army honestly think what they have done makes Thailand look good?
The Burmese refugee issue is now front page news all over the world and Thais are now looked upon as cruel and against human rights. Very sad for Thailand, but if Thailand doesn't start to take care of its image, it's not going to be popular with tourists for much longer.
Comment 37
Basti date : 01/02/2009 time : 00:57
date : 01/02/2009 time : 00:57
Thailands land borders are too porous, that not only facilitates illegal immigration, but also makes drug smuggling too easy.
How about a program to build a huge wall with moat around thailand to stimulate the economy in this time of crisis. It would employ many workers, lay the minds of people, who are worried about illegal immigration, to rest and make drug smuggling more difficult. Good fences make good neighbours.
How about a program to build a huge wall with moat around thailand to stimulate the economy in this time of crisis. It would employ many workers, lay the minds of people, who are worried about illegal immigration, to rest and make drug smuggling more difficult. Good fences make good neighbours.
Comment 38
Grazzy date : 01/02/2009 time : 05:43
date : 01/02/2009 time : 05:43
As a former resident of Thailand I am appalled and shocked by what I have read about the Rohingya people. The military has to be held to account for their deplorable actions. One has to congratulate the Hong Kong tourist who brought this to the world's attention otherwise it would have been swept under the carpet of double standards of Thailand.
It is time for the government to clean up the military, reduce their powers and make them responsible to a cilivian government. Fat chances that will happen. Where are the beliefs of Buddhism in all this? Making offerings at temples to try to buy a better life in the future? Where has gentle compassion gone? What about repsoect for human rights?
Thailand could be the leading country of SEA but no, it is not. Corruption, cronyism, elitism, feudalism, prejudice, unjustified nationalism and general incompetence have all taken their toll. Education used to be good but now is not.
It remains a fun country to visit but not to take too seriously. I regret choosing to spend too many years of my life there thinking I would be able to make a life within the system. If you are not Thai Chinese or born there with a silver spoon in your mouth,you don't stand a chance.
It is time for the government to clean up the military, reduce their powers and make them responsible to a cilivian government. Fat chances that will happen. Where are the beliefs of Buddhism in all this? Making offerings at temples to try to buy a better life in the future? Where has gentle compassion gone? What about repsoect for human rights?
Thailand could be the leading country of SEA but no, it is not. Corruption, cronyism, elitism, feudalism, prejudice, unjustified nationalism and general incompetence have all taken their toll. Education used to be good but now is not.
It remains a fun country to visit but not to take too seriously. I regret choosing to spend too many years of my life there thinking I would be able to make a life within the system. If you are not Thai Chinese or born there with a silver spoon in your mouth,you don't stand a chance.
Comment 39
curtis date : 01/02/2009 time : 15:45
date : 01/02/2009 time : 15:45
In the short time (3 months) I've travelled and resided in Thailand, many things have happened and changed to the detriment of the country. I'm an Australian with a Thai partner and i'd like to speak in support of Mike Macarelli's comments on the Thai education system.
Although i would consider my partner well educated for a Thai, she cannot name more than one continent on a map of the world, let alone 7. It's also sometimes quite disturbing to me how little she knows of the world outside Thailand. So, just what are they teaching in Thai schools? I'm baffled. It's not English (not much anyway), it's not geography (outside Thailand), it's not Buddhism or religion (the real versions), it's not science of any importance and it can't be social studies (no knowledge of racism).
My partner actively and very persistently seeks to leave her country of birth, but for some strange reason unbeknownst to me she still cannot admit any fault or flaw in Thailand after all that has happened. Maybe this is what they teach in the schools, unjustified pride and nationalism hmmmm, just a thought.
It's ironic that this should happen to be a response to an editorial about immigrants trying to enter the country as i have been trying to leave since the end of December but there don't seem to be any planes (funny that). It's safe to say that i will not be returning to Thailand in the future. Yes, it's beautiful in parts but there are plenty of other beautiful, more developed and less racist places in the world to visit.
Although i would consider my partner well educated for a Thai, she cannot name more than one continent on a map of the world, let alone 7. It's also sometimes quite disturbing to me how little she knows of the world outside Thailand. So, just what are they teaching in Thai schools? I'm baffled. It's not English (not much anyway), it's not geography (outside Thailand), it's not Buddhism or religion (the real versions), it's not science of any importance and it can't be social studies (no knowledge of racism).
My partner actively and very persistently seeks to leave her country of birth, but for some strange reason unbeknownst to me she still cannot admit any fault or flaw in Thailand after all that has happened. Maybe this is what they teach in the schools, unjustified pride and nationalism hmmmm, just a thought.
It's ironic that this should happen to be a response to an editorial about immigrants trying to enter the country as i have been trying to leave since the end of December but there don't seem to be any planes (funny that). It's safe to say that i will not be returning to Thailand in the future. Yes, it's beautiful in parts but there are plenty of other beautiful, more developed and less racist places in the world to visit.
Comment 40
Vic date : 02/02/2009 time : 00:45
date : 02/02/2009 time : 00:45
Without having to check their DNA anybody with average eyesight can tell that these boat people are not Burmese, and, with a little education, can also tell that they originated from that country on the NW of Burma.
Comment 41
Steve in Chiang Mai date : 02/02/2009 time : 03:43
date : 02/02/2009 time : 03:43
I want to join the others in thanking K. Sanitsuda for such full and open expression of his/her thinking - I think I do understand how difficult it is to do that.
I think I also understand the annoyed feelings from reading/viewing reports in the foreign media ("Honestly, I am a bit annoyed by the way the news was played up in the foreign media, which often plays on sensationalism and moral superiority, feeding on bigotry"). But, when one thinks about the near total silence in the Thai media (except Phuket Wan - who can fairly claim to have to opened the way for subsequent reporting in mid-December last year) - which was only broken AFTER the foreign media started investigating and reporting........ then maybe one can also understand another reason why they have given such prominence to this issue.
Is it really asking too much to think that Bangkok Post/Nation etc (& the Thai-language press/TV) might actually send a reporter to investigate a major story in their own country? Like the government, they have sat back and waited for "concrete evidence" to be produced - by others....... i.e. the foreign media.
Very few countries in the world can claim a perfect record in dealing with the difficult migrant/refugee issues that confront them. But, none of them could just justify the treatment of the Rohingya that has been reported - for example:
"A Thai naval officer has confirmed claims that ethnic Rohingya boat people from Myanmar, detained along Thailand's south-western coast, have been taken back out to sea and set adrift.
The naval officer, who declined to be identified, told Al Jazeera: "We have to take the engines off the boats or they will come back.
"The wind will carry them to India or somewhere."
K. Abhisit (finally) instructs ISOC to investigate its own actions and report back to him. Does anyone seriously believe that this will be a thorough and proper investigation? But then - does anyone seriously believe he had any choice?
I love and respect Thailand and Thai people - but they really deserve better media and better military that will do a better job for them.
I think I also understand the annoyed feelings from reading/viewing reports in the foreign media ("Honestly, I am a bit annoyed by the way the news was played up in the foreign media, which often plays on sensationalism and moral superiority, feeding on bigotry"). But, when one thinks about the near total silence in the Thai media (except Phuket Wan - who can fairly claim to have to opened the way for subsequent reporting in mid-December last year) - which was only broken AFTER the foreign media started investigating and reporting........ then maybe one can also understand another reason why they have given such prominence to this issue.
Is it really asking too much to think that Bangkok Post/Nation etc (& the Thai-language press/TV) might actually send a reporter to investigate a major story in their own country? Like the government, they have sat back and waited for "concrete evidence" to be produced - by others....... i.e. the foreign media.
Very few countries in the world can claim a perfect record in dealing with the difficult migrant/refugee issues that confront them. But, none of them could just justify the treatment of the Rohingya that has been reported - for example:
"A Thai naval officer has confirmed claims that ethnic Rohingya boat people from Myanmar, detained along Thailand's south-western coast, have been taken back out to sea and set adrift.
The naval officer, who declined to be identified, told Al Jazeera: "We have to take the engines off the boats or they will come back.
"The wind will carry them to India or somewhere."
K. Abhisit (finally) instructs ISOC to investigate its own actions and report back to him. Does anyone seriously believe that this will be a thorough and proper investigation? But then - does anyone seriously believe he had any choice?
I love and respect Thailand and Thai people - but they really deserve better media and better military that will do a better job for them.
Comment 42
brian murphy date : 03/02/2009 time : 10:36
date : 03/02/2009 time : 10:36
re :Denial leads to shame.
You have great moral courage to write this article, which is being covered up by the army and navy , who are the real authority of power in Thailand.
You have great moral courage to write this article, which is being covered up by the army and navy , who are the real authority of power in Thailand.
Comment 43
brian murphy date : 03/02/2009 time : 10:38
date : 03/02/2009 time : 10:38
you have grat moral courage to highlight this atrocity which is being covered up by the perpetrators , the army and navy who have the real power and authority in Thailand
Comment 44
Surasak date : 04/02/2009 time : 02:35
date : 04/02/2009 time : 02:35
Rohingya are the Arayan people whose home land are the western part of Burma(Mianma). They were denied the right to be part of Burma, same as Mon, Karen, and many others minority groups who fled their homeland and become refugee.
I'm curious that Rohingya never become front page news during Thaksin's, Samak's, and Somchai's government! Is this incident just happen on Abhisit's government?
I'm curious that Rohingya never become front page news during Thaksin's, Samak's, and Somchai's government! Is this incident just happen on Abhisit's government?
Comment 45
Steve in Chiang Mai date : 06/02/2009 time : 06:43
date : 06/02/2009 time : 06:43
To K. Surasak (Comment #42):
I already said in my comment "Very few countries in the world can claim a perfect record in dealing with the difficult migrant/refugee issues" - so I imagine that the TRT/PPP governments were the same.
But - any Rohingya refugees/migrants in that time were NOT treated then in the way that has been described now.
There are 2 criticisms now: #1 is what the Thai military are accused of doing with the Rohingya in December/January; and #2 is that the Abhisit government has done very little to investigate such a serious charge in a proper way (proper = thorough & impartial).
I think it's clear that this story would not continue to be so important for so long in the foreign media if the Abhisit government was willing (and able) to deal with it by making a proper investigation. They should have done that at the beginning and they should certainly be doing it now.
As I already said, nearly all the Thai media (newspapers and TV) have left it to the foreign media to investigate and report a Thai story - and we will all have our opinion about why the Thai media have done so little.
But, if the Thai authorities continue to delay making a proper investigation and if the Thai media do not investigate a Thai story - then nobody should be surprised that the foreign media are reporting those facts and asking questions. This is very natural and very logical - it is NOT a conspiracy against Thailand and Thai people.... and it is NOT a conspiracy against the Abhisit government.
I already said in my comment "Very few countries in the world can claim a perfect record in dealing with the difficult migrant/refugee issues" - so I imagine that the TRT/PPP governments were the same.
But - any Rohingya refugees/migrants in that time were NOT treated then in the way that has been described now.
There are 2 criticisms now: #1 is what the Thai military are accused of doing with the Rohingya in December/January; and #2 is that the Abhisit government has done very little to investigate such a serious charge in a proper way (proper = thorough & impartial).
I think it's clear that this story would not continue to be so important for so long in the foreign media if the Abhisit government was willing (and able) to deal with it by making a proper investigation. They should have done that at the beginning and they should certainly be doing it now.
As I already said, nearly all the Thai media (newspapers and TV) have left it to the foreign media to investigate and report a Thai story - and we will all have our opinion about why the Thai media have done so little.
But, if the Thai authorities continue to delay making a proper investigation and if the Thai media do not investigate a Thai story - then nobody should be surprised that the foreign media are reporting those facts and asking questions. This is very natural and very logical - it is NOT a conspiracy against Thailand and Thai people.... and it is NOT a conspiracy against the Abhisit government.
Comment 46
R Clarke date : 08/02/2009 time : 15:01
date : 08/02/2009 time : 15:01
"The Land of Smiles" What a Joke Thailand is Finished.
Comment 47
Steve m date : 10/02/2009 time : 21:35
date : 10/02/2009 time : 21:35
Greed, more greed has taken its toll on being nice. It is not only the thais problem but all the worlds problem. What has really gone on here for the last five years is what took thousands of years to come too. Humanity has lost to evil! and being nice is losing . You want globalization you have it. Now I read your paper and this week chemical compaies want the thai people to give up gods inexpensive herbs for all to be control by a handful .Can't you see what is really happening. pleaase open your eys's greed is coming to you and you.alone. If this keeps up you all will have a major problem? And that is when the farmer no longer produces and people start to die becuase their is no food to feed the people....
Comment 48
Don Aleman date : 11/02/2009 time : 08:53
date : 11/02/2009 time : 08:53And now the world, via American Angelina Jolie's remarks, has been "warned" to not comment on the "boat" people.
Angelina is a pretty tough cookie who, I believe,will tell the warning minister
just what he can do with his threat.
Comment 49
jack chalmers date : 12/02/2009 time : 11:55
date : 12/02/2009 time : 11:55
I think all Farangs should not comment on thailands government decisions on illegal immigration. Does Thailand want to be like london in the uk, where immigrants who were allowed in now stab or shoot a couple of children every week, and handguns knives and machine guns are available for all. Drugs flood in and social unrest is getting closer.!!!
Comment 50
mill date : 13/02/2009 time : 06:27
date : 13/02/2009 time : 06:27
Sanitsuda.You see truth come slowly.Yours excelent article litle help with this issue.From my personal point of view in new goverment you must by communication ministr.
Comment 51
passingby date : 13/02/2009 time : 08:42
date : 13/02/2009 time : 08:42
thai military and humanright?
ha! it like water and oil.
they even occasionally kill thai people, read our history of democracy!
what do we expect to see when it come to illegal immigration?
thai military pay no part in develop this country but only destroy.
in the next 10-15 yrs, you will see this people turn thailand to 2nd Myanmar.
wait and see.
ha! it like water and oil.
they even occasionally kill thai people, read our history of democracy!
what do we expect to see when it come to illegal immigration?
thai military pay no part in develop this country but only destroy.
in the next 10-15 yrs, you will see this people turn thailand to 2nd Myanmar.
wait and see.
Comment 52
duke date : 13/02/2009 time : 15:05
date : 13/02/2009 time : 15:05
Well today is Feb 13th and this is what the PM said today, "Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva said Friday boats carrying Muslim Rohingya migrants "were towed out so they can land at a different destination." Someone tell him to shut up!
Comment 53
roger david brown date : 15/02/2009 time : 06:19
date : 15/02/2009 time : 06:19
Re: Comment 38.You are so right Sirit is becoming more xenophobic, and hostile day by day !
I have lived in Thailand since 1993, and falling apart! As a retired teacher I fully endorse your observations.
I have lived in Thailand since 1993, and falling apart! As a retired teacher I fully endorse your observations.
Comment 54
roger david brown date : 15/02/2009 time : 06:22
date : 15/02/2009 time : 06:22
Sanitsuda must be very careful. Actually telling the truth, and thinking is dangerous!
Hi all. Sometime they'll give a war and nobody will come.
I am from Cameroon and learning to speak English, give true I wrote the following sentence: "In firms where there is inaccurate selection"
With respect ;), Sara.
I am from Cameroon and learning to speak English, give true I wrote the following sentence: "In firms where there is inaccurate selection"
With respect ;), Sara.
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Comment 57
Gary date : 28/12/2009 time : 04:59
date : 28/12/2009 time : 04:59
Thailand is a great country and has so much to offer, but corruption throughout the military/government really is very damaging.
Having lived here for many years, there are countless occasions where actions of significant leaders in Thailand defied belief. Not sure whether it's due to lack of education or naivety, but it seems like some people believe they can get away with anything without getting caught.
There have been some shocking examples in recent years - one memorable occasion, local officials created a register of illegal immigrants (Burmese), who are low paid, unskilled workers filling a labor void which Thai business owners are more than happy to take advantage of. 'Maintenance' fees are collected from each illegal immigrant, then, some weeks later a military vessel turns up and takes them all away. Hundreds of people. Time passes and no-one talks about it any more. Truly terrible.
I can understand wanting to deal with the problem, but surely the Thai government can devise a better solution. And denial and trying to hide the problem just create an even bigger opportunity for corrupt officials to take advantage and profit from the situation. It's understandable that foreign media would jump on news stories - there needs to be better policies and actions in place.
Having lived here for many years, there are countless occasions where actions of significant leaders in Thailand defied belief. Not sure whether it's due to lack of education or naivety, but it seems like some people believe they can get away with anything without getting caught.
There have been some shocking examples in recent years - one memorable occasion, local officials created a register of illegal immigrants (Burmese), who are low paid, unskilled workers filling a labor void which Thai business owners are more than happy to take advantage of. 'Maintenance' fees are collected from each illegal immigrant, then, some weeks later a military vessel turns up and takes them all away. Hundreds of people. Time passes and no-one talks about it any more. Truly terrible.
I can understand wanting to deal with the problem, but surely the Thai government can devise a better solution. And denial and trying to hide the problem just create an even bigger opportunity for corrupt officials to take advantage and profit from the situation. It's understandable that foreign media would jump on news stories - there needs to be better policies and actions in place.
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