OPINION

School of no thoughts

Re: "How our education sustains dictatorship", (Opinion, May 25).

Khun Sanitsuda Ekachai is correct in her diagnosis. The Thai educational system has failed to instil any idea of self-rule or any form of democratic values. People have become pawns in hands of politicians and the military. Each of them wait for their turn to grab power. For Thai people the governance of the country has turned into a game of Wheel of Fortune. Sometimes it looks as if the whole generation has been given a tranquiliser in the name of peace and stability that works like a charm.

Under dictatorship, people either live in fear, or live with a false sense of security, but either way, they learn to take all the crap from their rulers without complaining. Is there light at the end of tunnel for Thailand? Khun Sanitsuda has made it very clear that Thai schools are where all the lights are switched off.

In a recent report you stated that, "The Asia Internet Coalition (AIC), an industry association made up of eight internet giants, has agreed in principle to work with local authorities to tackle web pages and content that violates the law".

I therefore find it very strange that in a mission statement posted by the AIC at the end of last year they declared the following: "It is AIC's view that the intermediary liability regime outlined in the amended Computer Crime Act passed by the National Legislative Assembly on Friday is detrimental to Thailand's ambition to become a regional digital economy hub".

It would seem that either the AIC has got its lines crossed or some government spokesman has expressed his desires rather than the full facts.

Re: "Speed focus not making roads safer", (Opinion, May 24).

Unlimited speed on the German autobahn is the exception rather than the rule, as every other country in the world has speed limits. Even in Australia, there are limits in the outback (where there is endless road), because even out there, speed kills.

Bad drivers are the root cause of our poor safety statistics. In Germany, people are generally disciplined drivers. This is because obtaining a driver's licence is not easy, requiring a would-be candidate to undergo training and a multitude of written and practical tests. This is designed to drill proper and safe driving into them, before being granted the privilege of a licence.

Compare this to Thailand, where it is extremely easy to obtain a licence.

The practical test for example, consists of one drive around an obstacle course.

Thailand can replicate the success of developed countries and make the driving test comprehensive, harder and introduce a practical test where you are examined by a tester while driving on real roads. Also, introduce an Australian-style probationary licensing system where new drivers are gradually given the right to drive on their own.

This needs to be combined with consistent, strict and effective enforcement of traffic laws, to send a signal that the habits of yesterday are no longer acceptable. The increased use of automated enforcement tools will also help to ensure the system is fair, accurate and not susceptible to corruption.

In Thailand, more speed is a recipe for disaster. Focus on making drivers disciplined before they earn their first licence.

Re: "Deputy PM Prawit treated in Europe for Meniere's disease", (Online, May 25).

With all due respect to the deputy PM, does this mean that Meniere's disease is not treatable in Thailand, or does it mean that because the deputy PM has the financial resources, he prefers treatment in Europe?

With Meniere's disease, Deputy PM Prawit is experiencing hearing problems. This may explain why he has continued to support the navy's submarine purchase plan despite boisterous criticism.

postbag@bangkokpost.co.th