Marking the 48th anniversary of diplomatic ties with China this year, the Bangkok Post presents the results of a study that examined the history of Sino-Thai relations.
The paper, titled "Thailand and the People’s Republic of China: Volatile Politics and Troubles in the Early Years of Diplomatic Relations (1975-1978)" was authored by Sitthiphon Kruarattikan and published by the International Study Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2020.
The research looked into the early years of Sino-Thai relations at a time when the Thai political landscape was rapidly changing.
Democracy was in full bloom after the fall of the military regime led by Field
Trouble on world stage prompts rethink of Thai-China ties
As all roads are leading to Beijing, few may realise that 48 years ago a proposal to revive official ties with the communist regime was considered controversial, if not unpopular.
Then, Thailand was closer to the United States and the Republic of China, known as Taiwan, than it was with mainland China. Moreover, the People's Republic of China was eyed suspiciously as a key supporter of the banned Communist Party of Thailand (CPT).
Contact persisted despite the political climate: remittances (called poay-guan in one Chinese dialect) sent by Chinese people in Thailand back to their families in mainland China was a common practice.
China VP lauds unshakeable ties on princess's 50th trip
China and Thailand share a close bond, and their cooperation has only strengthened over the years. The Thai royal family has placed great importance on enhancing ties with China, resulting in an irreplaceable and friendly relationship.
This year marks the 48th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations, and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn made her 50th visit to China early last month.
During her trip, the princess met several Chinese dignitaries, including Vice President Han Zheng and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs.
Forty-eight years ago, Pusadee Keetaworanart, a journalist with Singsian Daily, a Chinese-language daily published in Thailand, was among 30 Thai reporters who joined MR Kukrit Pramoj, then prime minister, in a historic trip to initiate diplomatic ties with China.
That was the first time most people on the trip had visited the communist state, and their first impression of those living in mainland China was that they liked to dress in plain white shirts and black or dark blue trousers. No other colours were seen, which gave these visitors a feeling of them being “simple” and “equal”.
Another impressive fact Ms Pusadee observed during her trip was the Chinese people’s honesty and level of service.
China relations experts agree that China’s unparalleled rise stems from its government’s strong and purposeful policies as well as the leadership of President Xi Jinping.
Pinit Jarusombat, president of the Thai-Chinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC), says that China achieving its greatness was a decades-long process stemming from a revolutionary war and the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949.
Many had underestimated China while the country faced large-scale poverty. Now China has become the world’s leading country in food technology and science, he said.
Thailand should tighten its relationship with China and carry out major development projects to further empower it, according to Pinit Jarusombat, president of the Thai-Chinese Cultural and Relationship Council (TCCRC).
On the 48th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties, Mr Pinit told the Bangkok Post the two sides have a splendid friendship that dates back to ancient times.
Friendly cooperation including trade relations, social contacts and cultural exchanges for over 1,000 years have created family-like bonds among them, he added.
"We are in a new era," he said. "Today, there is no longer one world power. China is strong in economic power, national security and technology.
Carabao Group pours energy drink into China market
Carabao Group, maker of Thailand's popular Carabao Dang energy drink, is looking toward the Chinese market for expansion as China's economy continues to grow, according to its Chief Executive Officer Sathien Sathientham.
Speaking ahead of the 48th anniversary of Thai-Sino bilateral ties in July, Mr Sathien said mainland China now has 1.45 billion people. As a result, China has become a major economic force in the world and a market with plenty of business opportunities.
"So, Carabao Group wants to expand its energy drink market in China,'' he said.
Lenso Corporation urges Chinese authorities to enhance trade standards for foreign enterprises
Lenso Corporation, a prominent company with a long history of doing business in China, calls on the Chinese authorities to prioritise trade standards with foreign enterprises, highlighting the continued commercial opportunities offered by China in the global market.
Lenso Corporation Public Company Limited has called on the Chinese authorities to uphold trade standards between China and foreign enterprises, emphasising that China still presents commercial opportunities for the global market. Jesada Viraporn, the chairman of Lenso Corporation, disclosed that the company commenced its business ventures with China in 1973-1974. Reflecting on the initial period, he mentioned the inconvenience of travel due to the absence of direct flights from Thailand to China. However, despite the challenges, they recognised the potential opportunities in China. Mr Jesada remarked that in Shanghai and Guangzhou, people were still attired in navy clothes and used bicycles as a primary mode of transportation.
TCCEA emphasises strong China-Thailand ties and mutual benefits
TCCEA VP, Gen Vichit Yathip, highlights the enduring bond between China and Thailand, emphasising the significant growth in economic and trade cooperation while calling on the new Thai government to prioritise maintaining healthy relations.
China and Thailand share robust ties, and their economic and trade cooperation has witnessed significant growth through their military diplomacy relations, according to Gen Vichit Yathip, vice-president of the Thai-Chinese Culture and Economy Association (TCCEA). Speaking on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of Thai-Sino relations, Gen Vichit emphasised the new Thai government’s responsibility to foster strong and mutually beneficial relationships with China.
China started gifting giant pandas to other countries in 1941 as a tool of diplomacy. After a policy adjustment in 1984 following a huge decrease in the giant panda population, the country's cuddliest diplomats have been sent to other countries on a lease term instead of gifted. Thailand is no exception.
In 2001, Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, then a deputy prime minister, started a bilateral dialogue between China and Thailand for an agreement to have giant pandas sent here as a symbol of friendship between the two nations.
Just two years later, two giant pandas were sent to Thailand as part of a 10-year breeding conservation programme. The male panda, Chuang Chuang, and female counterpart, Lin Hui, suddenly became the stars of Chiang Mai Zoo.
Mandarin Chinese is one of the most popular foreign languages among Thais wishing to take up another language, with many believing proficiency in Mandarin can help them secure high-paying jobs.
According to Pusadee Keetaworanart, manager of Oriental Culture Academy, a Chinese language school in Pathumwan district, an increasing number of Thai students are taking up Chinese, with the hope of landing a job with a big Chinese company once they graduate.
She said many believe that fluency in Chinese will help them secure a high-paying job.
Marking the 48th anniversary of diplomatic ties with China this year, the Bangkok Post presents the results of a study that examined the history of Sino-Thai relations.
The paper, titled "Thailand and the People’s Republic of China: Volatile Politics and Troubles in the Early Years of Diplomatic Relations (1975-1978)" was authored by Sitthiphon Kruarattikan and published by the International Study Centre of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 2020.
The research looked into the early years of Sino-Thai relations at a time when the Thai political landscape was rapidly changing.
Democracy was in full bloom after the fall of the military regime led by Field Marshal Thanom Kittikachorn following a popular uprising on Oct 14, 1973.
Forging diplomatic relations with China on July 1, 1975, was not only a diplomatic masterstroke by the Kukrit Pramoj government, but also represented a major shift in Thai foreign policy.
However, a military coup took place after the massacre of student protesters at Thammasat University on Oct 6, 1976, and an ultra-right government led by then-prime minister Thanin Kraivixien was installed by the coup-makers.
The Thanin government was ousted in another coup on Oct 20, 1977, and supplanted by a "semi-democratic" regime with a government led by Gen Kriangsak Chomanan.
In 1975, neighbouring countries in Indochina underwent political upheavals as they turned to communist rule one by one.
These factors had a major impact on Thai foreign policies, and Thai-Sino relations between 1975 and 1977 did not go smoothly as a result.
Cold War antagonism
After the end of World War II, the governments of Field Marshal Plaek Phibunsongkhram (1948–1957), Field Marshal Sarit Thanarat (1959–1963), and Field Marshal Thanom (1963–1973) aligned themselves with the Western bloc led by the United States.
These governments pursued policies against the communist bloc led by the Soviet Union.
These policies included sending Thai troops to help South Korea fight North Korea in the Korean War, co-founding the Southeast Asia Treaty Organisation to counter communist expansion, as well as allowing the US to set up bases in Thailand for military operations during the Vietnam War.
At the time, Thai governments refused to recognise the government of the People's Republic of China, or mainland China, and continued to maintain diplomatic ties with the Kuomintang government after its relocation to Taiwan in 1949.
China also provided accommodation for Pridi Banomyong, a former regent and prime minister who was forced into self-exile after a counter-coup against the government of Field Marshal Plaek failed in 1949.
The establishment of the Tai Nationality Autonomous Area in Yunnan in 1953 also fuelled Thailand's fears that the Chinese communists wanted to expand their influence and control into Southeast Asia.
This was explicitly mentioned in a speech by Prince Wan Waithayakon, then a foreign affairs minister, during the 9th session of the UN General Assembly in September, 1954.
He said: "My government has reason to believe that preparations are being made for large-scale communist infiltrations from Yunnan through Viet Minh into Thailand in order to subvert the government of my country."
Even though efforts were made to improve ties with China after the Bandung Conference in 1955, no tangible results were achieved and the process came to an end when Field Marshal Sarit staged a coup in 1957.
Fears that China was a threat heightened when the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) waged guerrilla warfare in rural areas with the support of the Chinese Communist Party, according to the author.
Col Thanat Khoman, a former foreign affairs minister, said in 1969 that China constituted a danger to Thailand as it waged revolutionary wars or liberation wars and engaged in acts of infiltration and subversion, and spread propaganda in Southeast Asia as well as in the West.
Meanwhile, Thailand and Taiwan enjoyed amicable ties and shared an anti-communist stance.
When the US and Taiwan launched an operation to airlift weapons to anti-Chinese elements in Tibet in 1958, they flew from military bases in Thailand.
In 1970, Col Thanat, who was a foreign affairs minister at the time, reiterated Thailand's stance that Taiwan was the only representative of Chinese people in the United Nations.
With the close ties with Taiwan and a military alliance with the US, Thai governments before the 1970s were seen by China as its enemies.
However, a major change occurred in international politics as US president Richard Nixon announced a foreign policy of detente dubbed the Nixon Doctrine, in which the US would withdraw its troops from the Vietnam War and turn its attention to mending ties with China to work together against the Soviet Union.
The United Nations General Assembly voted on Oct 25, 1971, to accept the People’s Republic of China into the global body and expel Taiwan, followed by Nixon's visit to China the following year.
In light of this, several US allies, including Thailand, had to revise their foreign policies towards China.
The Thai government at the time began to make informal contact with China, with a team of Thai table-tennis players sent to Beijing to take part in a competition there in August of 1972.
However, China remained steadfast in its far-left ideologies and still supported revolutionary movements worldwide.
As a result, the Thai government hesitated to initiate an official rapprochement with China while it still maintained ties with Taiwan.
A Thai representative abstained during the vote to admit China into the UN, and expressed disagreement with the expulsion of Taiwan from the global body.
Icy ties thaw
Thailand began to change its attitude towards China after the downfall of the Thanom government in the wake of the Oct 14 uprising in 1973.
The Sanya Thammasak government stepped in and paved the way for a rapprochement with China.
Gen Chatichai Choonhavan, who served as deputy foreign affairs minister at the time, led a Thai delegation to China in December 1973 to discuss ways to establish diplomatic ties.
A discussion with Chinese Prime Minister Zho Enlai also enabled Gen Chatichai to learn about cracks in relations between China and North Vietnam.
Gen Chatichai came to realise that China could play a role in bolstering Thailand's national security if South Vietnam fell to communist troops from North Vietnam.
In 1974, the Thai government showed it was keen to establish formal ties with China when then-foreign affairs minister Charunphan Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya said during a TV show that: "We don't see political ideologies or doctrines held by other countries as an obstacle to friendly relations."
He also told foreign correspondents that Thailand would stick to the One-China policy and that conflict between Beijing and Taipei was China's business.
In early 1975, the communists were on the verge of taking control of South Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, underscoring the urgent need for the Thai government to speed up moves to establish diplomatic ties with China.
Despite holding a negative view of China, MR Seni Pramoj, the Democrat Party leader who became prime minister following an election on Jan 26, 1975, said during a press conference that it was still necessary for Thailand to establish ties with China.
"We are a small country. How can we pursue a policy against China?" he said.
Bhichai Rattakul, a foreign affairs minister at the time, also expressed support for the One-China policy and said he would follow up on what his predecessor, Charunphan, did.
However, the Seni Pramoj government was short-lived as it failed to get a vote of confidence during a parliamentary session in which the government spelt out its policy statement as required by the constitution on March 6, 1975.
As a result, MR Seni had to resign as prime minister.
MR Kukrit Pramoj, his younger brother and leader of the Social Action Party, succeeded him as he gathered enough support from coalition parties to form a government.
Spelling out his government's policy statement before parliament on March 19, 1975, MR Kukrit made it clear that his government would step up efforts to normalise relations with China.
Later that month, Gen Chatichai, foreign affairs minister at the time, and Phan Wannamethee, permanent secretary for foreign affairs, presented a report informing MR Kukrit that the situation in Indochina posed a serious threat to national security.
This prompted MR Kukrit to raise the issue with the National Security Council (NSC) and he decided that urgent action must be taken to establish ties with China as a guarantee for Thailand's national security.
However, security agencies held different opinions.
Among those who opposed the idea was ACM Siddhi Savetsila, the NSC secretary-general. He said he saw China as an enemy as it supported communist insurgents led by the CPT.
Kukrit meets Chairman Mao
A picture of MR Kukrit shaking hands with Mao Zedong, chairman of the Chinese Communist Party, on July 1, 1975, sparked fears among the conservatives in Thailand that leftism would intensify in the country.
Following the trip to China, MR Kukrit told parliament that the visit was intended to establish diplomatic ties and he would not adopt anything he saw in China for use in Thailand.
He also recommended MR Kasem Samosorn Kasemsri be appointed as Thailand's first ambassador to China.
Prior to the visit to China, the Kukrit government also confronted the US over the Mayaguez incident.
The US had sent marines to U-tapao military base in Rayong without permission from Thailand and went ahead with the rescue of the crew on board the American merchant ship Mayaguez, seized by Khmer Rouge soldiers in the Gulf of Thailand in May of 1975.
The government was upset and gave the US an ultimatum to withdraw all its troops from Thailand within 18 months.
With the establishment of ties with China and a tough stance against the US in the Mayaguez incident, critics accused MR Kukrit of leaning towards communism.
Meanwhile, MR Kukrit also struggled to deal with conflicts among coalition parties.
As a result, he decided to dissolve the House in January 1976 and his Social Action Party suffered a loss in an election on April 4.
MR Seni, the Democrat Party leader, returned as prime minister and pledged to maintain ties with China.
At the time, the Foreign Affairs Ministry issued a new regulation allowing passport holders to travel to China without having to be scrutinised by police officers from the Special Branch Bureau first.
Relations strengthen
The early years of the Sino-Thai diplomatic ties did not go smoothly mainly because of fears of communism.
Indochina neighbours had fallen to the communists. Many worried that Thailand could be the next according to the "domino theory" being bandied about at the time.
Thai-Sino relations were put back in the deep freeze again when the ultra-right Thanin government came to power following the Oct 6, 1976 coup.
Despite this, China still recognised that Thailand held strategic importance.
Therefore, Beijing had to put up with unfriendliness from the ultra-right government while attempting to befriend royal family members and the Thai military to promote a better understanding.
When the Thanin government was ousted in a coup on Oct 20, 1977, and replaced by the Kriangsak Chomanan government, the two countries appeared to get back on friendly terms quickly.
Sarasin Veerapol, a prominent expert on China and former deputy permanent secretary for foreign affairs, said: "It was like the Thai-Sino relations were put in a heater without having to wait for the ice to thaw."
In late 1978, a turn of major events both at home and abroad helped strengthen ties between the two countries further.
Deputy Chinese Prime Minister Deng Xiaoping visited Thailand from Nov 5–9 at the invitation of Gen Kriangsak.
During the visit, Deng also attended the royal ordination of His Majesty the King, who was the Crown Prince at the time.
In December that year, the third plenary session of the 11th Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party announced that China was shifting its focus to "socialist modernisation", ushering in a new era of reform and opening up under the leadership of Deng.
Vietnamese troops also invaded Cambodia to overthrow the Khmer Rouge government that year.
Thailand and China believed the invasion was part of a plan engineered by the Soviet Union to expand its power.
Thailand and China then decided to become strategic partners to counter threats from Vietnam and the Soviet Union.
In return for Thailand's friendly gesture, China stopped giving aid to the CPT.
From the 1980s onwards, the negative view of China held by the Thai political elite gradually ebbed as China's importance has since been recognised.
Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn began studying the Chinese language in 1980 and was the first member of the royal family to visit China in May 1981.
His Majesty the King, who was then the Crown Prince, visited China on behalf of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great in 1987. Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother also visited China in 2000.
Trouble on world stage prompts rethink of Thai-China ties
As all roads are leading to Beijing, few may realise that 48 years ago a proposal to revive official ties with the communist regime was considered controversial, if not unpopular.
Then, Thailand was closer to the United States and the Republic of China, known as Taiwan, than it was with mainland China. Moreover, the People's Republic of China was eyed suspiciously as a key supporter of the banned Communist Party of Thailand (CPT).
Contact persisted despite the political climate: remittances (called poay-guan in one Chinese dialect) sent by Chinese people in Thailand back to their families in mainland China was a common practice.
The two nations had been Cold War adversaries since Mao Tse-tung came to power in 1949 and Thailand aligned itself with the United States after World War II.
In the 1970s, volatile changes on the international stage prompted Thai authorities to rethink their strategies. The surrounding circumstances prompted Prime Minister Kukrit Pramoj to pay the first visit to China in 1975.
On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge took over Phnom Penh. Shortly afterwards, Saigon also fell to the communist Viet Cong. At the time, the United States had military air bases in Thailand.
Kukrit called for a cabinet meeting where he asked for an estimated length of time that the Thai army could withstand an invasion by communist Vietnam, were it to happen. The answer was: "Three days" (for Vietnamese troops to reach Bangkok).
The prime minister said to Chatichai Choonhavan, then foreign minister, that "we must go to Beijing".
This historic visit was aimed to counter Vietnam, as the communists were on the rise while America was becoming weaker.
Widespread fear about the CPT's growing influence was another key factor, so the normalisation of relations with China was deemed a necessity.
Thus on June 30, 1975, Kukrit and 29 other high-ranking officials flew to Beijing. News archives from the period suggested Kukrit had to tread carefully during this historic visit. Rightist elements, notably in the military, were unhappy with the planned rapprochement.
A couple of days prior to his departure, rumours circulated there could be possible bloodshed and violence on American Independence Day — July 4th.
Kukrit promptly gave a televised speech in which he said: "There are so many incredible tales these days, but do not worry or panic. There will be no violence or trouble." (On that day, incidentally, Kukrit and some of his retinue skipped a leisure trip to the famed Rock Garden of Kunming and chose to stay in the hotel).
A spectacular reception by the Chinese hosts was followed by an unprecedented 58-minute discussion between Chairman Mao and the Thai prime minister.
The following day, July 1 marked a historic new chapter of Sino-Thai relations, when M R Kukrit and Premier Chou En-lai signed a joint communique at Beijing Hospital, where Chou was recovering from illness, re-establishing formal ties between the Kingdom of Thailand and the People's Republic of China.
Later, Deputy Prime Minister Deng Xiaoping hosted a banquet in the Great Hall of the People for Kukrit and other visiting Thai diplomats, including Foreign Minister Chatichai Choonhavan. In lengthy speeches Chou and Deng pledged to preserve Asia as a zone of "peace and stability," free from foreign domination.
Note: Excerpt from “The Long Road Ahead” by Vasana Chinvarakorn and Supara Janchitfah, Perspective section, Bangkok Post, Nov 20, 2005
China VP lauds unshakeable ties on princess's 50th trip
China and Thailand share a close bond, and their cooperation has only strengthened over the years. The Thai royal family has placed great importance on enhancing ties with China, resulting in an irreplaceable and friendly relationship.
This year marks the 48th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations, and Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn made her 50th visit to China early last month.
During her trip, the princess met several Chinese dignitaries, including Vice President Han Zheng and Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs.
The princess's visit to China symbolises the close ties between the two countries and acts as a harbinger of continued friendship, as she was also honoured with China's Friendship Medal.
The princess is skilled in literature, music and painting and has a deep appreciation for Chinese culture.
Vice President Han said the countries' friendship has spanned thousands of years, and their longstanding relationship continue to evolve with new vitality.
China is committed to working with Thailand to implement the agreements reached between the leaders of both countries, he said. They aim to uphold and carry forward the traditional and familial friendship between China and Thailand, advance high-quality Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation, deepen practical cooperation in various fields, and achieve mutual development and prosperity.
China's ambassador to Thailand, Han Zhiqiang, recently expressed confidence that China's BRI would promote mutual growth and bring benefits to both Thailand and China.
He said the BRI, designed to foster collaborative development, has played a guiding role in advancing bilateral relations and has established a new open and inclusive development system.
The ambassador also highlighted the significance of the Chinese-Thai rail development project, with its second phase scheduled to begin in 2024 and completion due by 2028.
This project serves as a symbol of connectivity and infrastructure development cooperation. Once finished, it will invigorate economic development and ease the transport of goods between Thailand, Laos, and China, reducing costs.
Promoting bilateral trade is also crucial in ensuring the BRI benefits the people of both countries, according to the Chinese ambassador.
In 2022, China invested in 158 projects, making it the largest foreign investor in Thailand. Additionally, the Rayong Thai-Chinese industrial estate has attracted over 180 Chinese firms, generating more than 45,000 jobs.
China ties forged 'not a moment too soon'
Forty-eight years ago, Pusadee Keetaworanart, a journalist with Singsian Daily, a Chinese-language daily published in Thailand, was among 30 Thai reporters who joined MR Kukrit Pramoj, then prime minister, in a historic trip to initiate diplomatic ties with China.
That was the first time most people on the trip had visited the communist state, and their first impression of those living in mainland China was that they liked to dress in plain white shirts and black or dark blue trousers. No other colours were seen, which gave these visitors a feeling of them being “simple” and “equal”.
Another impressive fact Ms Pusadee observed during her trip was the Chinese people’s honesty and level of service.
After covering the inauguration of Thai-Chinese relations on July 1, 1975, Ms Pusadee left an expensive pen behind at her hotel and only realised this when she was waiting to board a plane home.
Rushing back to the hotel to fetch the pen was impossible as the transport system was not convenient at the time. Contacting the hotel from the airport also proved a challenge.
About to give up on ever seeing her pen again, she was caught by surprise upon being told the hotel staff had already brought it to the airport, she said.
Toilet nightmare
Following that first trip to China, Ms Pusadee had an opportunity to revisit the country on many occasions in the ensuing decades. She recalls enjoying almost everything except for her experience of Chinese toilets.
From 1978, when she began visiting China several times a year, she said the latrines were always a major nuisance that never seemed to improve.
As she regularly wrote newspaper columns upon her return home informing readers of any developments she had observed, her major bugbear was that China should improve its toilets, if only to create a better impression among tourists.
But every time she received negative feedback from the Chinese embassy in Bangkok, deploring her as a journalist for only paying attention to such a “petty” thing.
Ms Pusadee’s wish was finally granted when Xi Jinping rose to power as general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The new Chinese leader accepted the criticism levelled at Chinese toilets and in 2015 vowed to overhaul them as well as the overall sanitation system, starting with building more than 33,500 new toilets in the main tourists districts and planning to build more over the next three years.
“We aim to make Chinese toilets win the world ranking and become one of the world’s top three countries with the best toilets in terms of both quality and sanitation by 2017. More importantly, these services will be free,” Li Jinzao, chairman of the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), said at the time.
That was after the CNTA invited a group of international tourists to visit China. They shared a common opinion that the toilet problem really needed to be addressed, which added weight to Ms Pusadee's long-standing pleas.
Modernisation drive
Ms Pusadee found China has over the past 48 years vastly developed its public utility system, already surpassing the development level which Thailand has reached.
China’s development level is now more or less on par with that of many developed nations, she said.
While Thailand has only recently begun promoting a digital society and digital finance, Chinese has long been a fully cashless society, she said, adding that many Thai visitors to China still can't catch up with China’s fast development.
When visiting China, some Thai visitors still aren’t familiar with hailing a taxi via mobile apps only, and having to pay for everything via mobile payment apps, she said.
MR Kukrit’s vision
The historic visit to China by the Thai government led by MR Kukrit not only marked the inauguration of Thai-Chinese relations but has proved in retrospect to be a wise move, said Ms Pusadee.
The late former prime minister showed great vision in deciding to form an alliance with China back them, at a time when communist countries were perceived by many Thais as evil, she said.
Indonesia was the first country in the region to initiate diplomatic ties with China; but it later backtracked after Suharto, Indonesia's second and longest-serving president, rose to power and began cracking down on the Chinese minority living in Indonesia, she said.
Afterward, Myanmar, Malaysia and the Philippines inaugurated diplomatic relationships with China, she said, with Thailand later following suit.
“MR Kukrit really had a great vision in this case because if Thailand hadn’t initiated relations with China at that time, Thailand would have ended up alone,” she said.
“The visit was meaningful and highly beneficial to Thailand. Before the visit, we pictured communists as being evil people; but when we got to know them, we realised Chinese people never hurt anyone."
Fitting in well
Over the past 48 years, Chinese people who have migrated to Thailand and settled down here have adapted well to the country and its people as if they were Thai-born citizens. Yet they also maintain their Chinese traditions, Ms Pusadee said.
In her opinion there is a thin line that separates Chinese immigrants in Thailand and ordinary Thais, especially those who have been educated in the US and work in the Thai bureaucratic system.
Influenced by views fostered through education and training in the US, many of these Thai bureaucrats distrust China, she said.
“We should have actually tightened our relations with China further. As neighbours, both nations should gain more economic benefit when bilateral cooperation is stepped up,” she said.
“China is a gigantic export market for Thailand," she said. "They (China) have never been against Thailand’s monarchy. All they think about is win-win situations."
“They have never attempted to meddle in Thailand’s internal affairs and politics, either. No matter who is in power here, they always approve. So, if any new government ever thinks of going against China, that would cost Thailand a lot of benefits,” she said.
Strong policies, leadership drive China's rise
China relations experts agree that China’s unparalleled rise stems from its government’s strong and purposeful policies as well as the leadership of President Xi Jinping.
Pinit Jarusombat, president of the Thai-Chinese Cultural Relationship Council (TCCRC), says that China achieving its greatness was a decades-long process stemming from a revolutionary war and the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949.
Many had underestimated China while the country faced large-scale poverty. Now China has become the world’s leading country in food technology and science, he said.
“Having been invaded by powerful countries in the past, China stood up to them and stood on its own feet stronger than ever. It reflects that China has neither invaded nor exploited anyone. Its foreign policy only benefits the international community. For example, China restored ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran in seven years,” Mr Pinit said.
The turning point for China was the administration under the Communist Party of China (CPC). Mr Pinit said the CPC’s Chairman Mao Zedong had fought against Japanese armies, led the revolution and eventually founded the People's Republic of China (PRC).
When Mao died, China faced challenges. Millions of people were suffering from starvation and a harsh winter at that time.
Mr Pinit said that, at the start of Deng Xiaoping's rule, China started to open up and develop new technology. State-owned enterprises were equipped to compete in the international market.
China's top graft buster and developer
Mr Pinit noted that Mr Xi is known for his modest and humble image. He reshaped the familiar notion of government officials having luxurious lifestyle to them living humble and economical lives.
Mr Xi is seen as a crusader against corruption, established China's position in world market and expanded the country's power.
“They say that Mao Zedong made China stand on its feet again, Deng Xiaoping made China wealthy and Xi Jinping made China powerful,” Mr Pinit said.
Aksornsri Phanishsarn, an economist from Thammasat University, said Mr Xi brought about “The Great Rejuvenation” ideology or Fuxing to spark patriotism, that helped China become a world superpower.
China’s success is a result of its clear direction and unified administration. Once it had a long-term strategy to develop, China overcame most obstacles despite the difficulties.
“Under [Mr Xi] administration, policies endorsed by the CPC are adopted by provincial and local administrations. Everyone from every sector mobilises to achieve the national goal,” said Ms Aksornsri.
To reform a country’s structure like what China has done, requires the implementation of a clear-cut, long term national strategy since reform takes a long time to finish.
“The policy implementation must be consistent. The country's leader should hold a vision for the future and local leaders should push development according to the national strategy. All elements combined will create success,” said Ms Aksornsri.
Moreover, the country must pursue accountability to assess performance. It is important to have an inspection agency to evaluate the work process and results of projects across the country. If a problem or an obstacle arises, the inspectors must report truthfully so that solutions can follow, she said.
“If China wants to be a great nation again, that is simply not enough. The Chinese leader also wants the country to be the world leader in technology,” Ms Aksornsri added.
China has developed emerging technologies such as the 5G system or Artificial Intelligence which puts it 11th on the Global Innovation Index list.
Ms Aksornsri believes Mr Xi’s engagement with global communities via the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has been evidently successful.
“President Xi is calm but sharp. He knows the right time to push his policies. He spent the start of his administration earning his people’s faith and loyalty. Policies on corruption and poverty elimination have won him many believers. The Chinese are willing to support the government led by Xi Jinping,” she said.
During the first five years of Mr Xi's rule, his extensive anti-corruption campaign saw it tackle over 1.5 million graft cases. Mr Xi vowed to crack down on "tigers and flies", both high-ranking officials and local civil servants.
The Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) has cracked down on both incumbent and former government officials linked to bribery and abuse of power, echoing Mr Xi’s determination and decisiveness to succeed with this policy.
“With such success, China has lifted over 100 million people above the poverty line, a feat no one has ever accomplished in China,” Ms Aksornsri said.
In 2013, Mr Xi introduced the "Chinese dream," an idea associated with the hope of restoring lost national greatness during past dynasties.
The Chinese dream is a key factor in China becoming a Xiaokang society — a moderately prosperous society.
As a result of rapid economic growth from technology and agricultural productivity, Mr Xi announced that extreme poverty in China had been eradicated in Feb 2021, the same year the government celebrated the 100th anniversary of the CPC.
Once Chinese people gave their loyalty to Mr Xi, they were willing to follow the national development strategy drawn up by the government. The Chinese dream of becoming a great nation has proven successful.
Ms Aksornsri also said Mr Xi has made Chinese people more optimistic which, in turn, drives them to work for the country’s prosperity and become a superpower.
The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
Mr Xi Jinping's BRI policy has been warmly welcomed by the international community since it was proposed at the CPC's 18th National Congress, especially from countries along its routes.
One of China's key policies in opening up in the new era, the BRI serves as an important platform for building a global community based on a shared future, and providing the world with a way of achieving common prosperity and development based on eastern wisdom.
Expounding on the guiding principles, rich content, goals and methods behind the BRI, Mr Xi has set the direction for further development, and mapped out a bright future for China.
What the TCCRC will do
Mr Pinit saya the council focuses on cultural exchanges and investment opportunities between Thailand and China.
To celebrate the 48th anniversary of Thai-Chinese relations, the TCCRC would like to continue its mission to send Thai students to China on exchange programmes. Additionally, Mr Pinit said that the council will work with the Ministry of Culture of the People's Republic of China, the China Cultural Center in Bangkok and the Chinese embassy to showcase cultural events.
Boost trade, investment ties, TCCRC urges
Thailand should tighten its relationship with China and carry out major development projects to further empower it, according to Pinit Jarusombat, president of the Thai-Chinese Cultural and Relationship Council (TCCRC).
On the 48th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties, Mr Pinit told the Bangkok Post the two sides have a splendid friendship that dates back to ancient times.
Friendly cooperation including trade relations, social contacts and cultural exchanges for over 1,000 years have created family-like bonds among them, he added.
"We are in a new era," he said. "Today, there is no longer one world power. China is strong in economic power, national security and technology. The strengths of China make many countries want to improve their relationship with it," he said.
India, Russia, Iran, Brazil, Saudi Arabia and many countries in Africa and the Middle East have decided to work with China. In Southeast Asia, Cambodia and Vietnam have followed suit.
The Thai government should focus more on trade and investment with China, especially on megaprojects such as the high-speed train service which now links China and Laos, Mr Pinit said.
"The government should have announced when the high-speed train service between Bangkok and Kunming will be completed, because this project will bring development and promote trade and tourism in many cities where the train passes," he said.
He urged the government to work with China on future industries including space technology, electronics, IT, solar energy and electric vehicles. The government should have tax incentives or measures to drive growth of these high-tech industries, he said.
Mr Pinit also suggested the government improve logistics with China such as by adding more direct flights or increasing maritime trade to expand agricultural exports from Thailand such as durian or herbal medicines, while also helping Thai students further their education in China.
As for tourism, Mr Pinit said the government should promote Thailand's soft power through cultural events, movies, TV dramas, exhibitions and sports to draw more high-quality Chinese tourists.
"The government also must also take action against authorities who take bribes, to reduce the number of Chinese operating shady businesses here," he said.
Amid the conflict between China and the United States in the Indo-Pacific region, Thailand should have a plan to turn the crisis into an opportunity, he said. This would be a challenge for the new government.
"As we forge good ties with China, it doesn't mean we are against the United States and its allies in Europe and Japan. We need to know how to tailor-make our relationships with powerful players," Mr Pinit said.
He suggested launching drills with China's armed forces while still maintaining military drills with the United States and countries in Europe.
"Thailand must be a safe place for international investors and tourists. The government must also deal with human trafficking issues to boost national security and confidence among international investors," he said.
Carabao Group pours energy drink into China market
Carabao Group, maker of Thailand's popular Carabao Dang energy drink, is looking toward the Chinese market for expansion as China's economy continues to grow, according to its Chief Executive Officer Sathien Sathientham.
Speaking ahead of the 48th anniversary of Thai-Sino bilateral ties in July, Mr Sathien said mainland China now has 1.45 billion people. As a result, China has become a major economic force in the world and a market with plenty of business opportunities.
"So, Carabao Group wants to expand its energy drink market in China,'' he said.
Currently, China has one of the world’s top five energy drink market shares of over 200 billion baht, followed by the US, Japan, the UK and Brazil.
However, Mr Sathien said doing business in China is not an easy task. Foreign businessmen and investors face many challenges in terms of grasping the cultural and language diversity as well as understanding Chinese business etiquette. So they need to acquire a sound understanding of these differences.
China is a country with a very specific way of doing business. Chinese businessmen, for instance, pay much more attention to making acquaintances with their counterparts over the dinner table, he said.
They want to get to know the foreign businessmen and investors they are dealing with before deciding whether they will sign a contract or not, he said.
Another key challenge of doing business in China is the language barrier.
He observed that most Chinese learners in Thailand still cannot speak Mandarin fluently, making them unable to have in-depth conversations with their Chinese business partners. Furthermore, they cannot gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.
"I think the government should provide Thai students who are interested in learning Mandarin with special language training programmers.
“They should also be taught about the culture of doing business in China and the appropriate negotiation skills needed there,” he said.
Thai-Sino relations
China has become a key economic player in Southeast Asia, especially in Thailand, which regards China as its second largest export market.
Mr Sathien said the two countries have enjoyed wide-ranging cooperation and collaboration in social and trade development.
China has maintained a relatively higher growth rate since the end of Covid-19 pandemic, after the zero Covid-19 policies which limited people’s movement were cancelled.
The return to normalcy of China is creating a business environment that attracts foreign businessmen, especially from Southeast Asia, to invest in China, he said. China also has reopened its cross-border trade with the region.
Since 2012, China and Thailand have developed a framework for what what they term a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
China continues to invest in Thailand by linking the countries’ mutual special economic zones — the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) in Chachoengsao, Chon Buri and Rayong provinces of Thailand and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) in China — to strengthen basic infrastructure and sustainable prosperity among the two countries.
Thailand would reap the benefits of China’s economic growth, he said.
"The Chinese market should not be ignored," he said. China also is keen on advanced technology, especially AI technology, and close cooperation on this front with China will help Thailand ’s economic growth.
Facts about Carabao Group
Carabao Group started doing business in China in 2017 when it introduced its energy drink to the country’s mass market via a distribution channel of more than 10,000 petrol stations. It received a good response from Chinese customers.
The company last year made around one billion baht and is expecting to achieve even higher revenue post-Covid-19, Mr Sathien said.
Lenso Corporation urges Chinese authorities to enhance trade standards for foreign enterprises
Lenso Corporation, a prominent company with a long history of doing business in China, calls on the Chinese authorities to prioritise trade standards with foreign enterprises, highlighting the continued commercial opportunities offered by China in the global market.
Lenso Corporation Public Company Limited has called on the Chinese authorities to uphold trade standards between China and foreign enterprises, emphasising that China still presents commercial opportunities for the global market. Jesada Viraporn, the chairman of Lenso Corporation, disclosed that the company commenced its business ventures with China in 1973-1974. Reflecting on the initial period, he mentioned the inconvenience of travel due to the absence of direct flights from Thailand to China. However, despite the challenges, they recognised the potential opportunities in China. Mr Jesada remarked that in Shanghai and Guangzhou, people were still attired in navy clothes and used bicycles as a primary mode of transportation.
Initially, Lenso Corporation primarily procured chemical products from China. Mr Jesada acknowledged that 50 years ago, Chinese products were not subjected to quality control, but their prices were significantly lower than those in the international market. He said, “China was not open to the world at that time, unaware of
the market prices of their products. Despite the quality not meeting the standard, we were able to place orders at much cheaper prices, sometimes 30-40% lower than the international market.”
The demand for Chinese-made products witnessed a substantial rise over the following decade. Mr Jesada credited China for its ability to revive its economy and manufacture large-scale commodities to meet the global demand. However, he also acknowledged the challenges faced while doing business with Chinese companies. Mr Jesada shared an incident where he ordered one tonne of commodities but received only half of the paid amount, with some chemical products being diluted with 30% water. These mistakes resulted in losses exceeding ten million baht.
During that time, Mr Jesada found limited assistance from the Chinese Embassy in Bangkok. They advised him to exercise caution when trading with Chinese companies, given the vastness of China and the inability of the government to scrutinise every fraudulent company in detail. However, the situation improved when Xi Jinping assumed the presidency of the People’s Republic of China. Large companies began implementing quality control measures in their production processes.
Mr Jesada emphasised the importance of conducting thorough background checks on Chinese companies to avoid fraud and product defects. Despite the affordability of Chinese-made goods, there is a risk associated with dishonest middlemen. To commemorate the 48th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations, Mr Jesada called upon the Chinese government to promote trustworthy business practices among Chinese companies operating overseas, particularly in the fields of electric vehicles, solar panels, and microchips. He added that China has the capability to manufacture high-quality products due to its abundant resources. By providing product guarantees to foreign customers, China can enhance its reputation in a positive manner.
TCCEA emphasises strong China-Thailand ties and mutual benefits
TCCEA VP, Gen Vichit Yathip, highlights the enduring bond between China and Thailand, emphasising the significant growth in economic and trade cooperation while calling on the new Thai government to prioritise maintaining healthy relations.
China and Thailand share robust ties, and their economic and trade cooperation has witnessed significant growth through their military diplomacy relations, according to Gen Vichit Yathip, vice-president of the Thai-Chinese Culture and Economy Association (TCCEA). Speaking on the occasion of the 48th anniversary of Thai-Sino relations, Gen Vichit emphasised the new Thai government’s responsibility to foster strong and mutually beneficial relationships with China. He stressed the importance of maintaining these relations and achieving a balanced approach, stating, “We should be a friend to all and ensure that the country remains on a steady path.” Gen Vichit highlighted the longstanding history of close cooperation and negotiation between the two countries, largely facilitated by their military diplomacy and relationships. He considered this principle fundamental to their current economic and social development efforts.
Gen Vichit shared his close collaboration with former Prime Minister Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, who played a pivotal role in seeking Beijing’s cooperation to help quell the communist insurgency in Thailand. Gen Chavalit served in the suppression campaign against the insurgency in the jungles of Thailand during the 1960s and 1970s. Gen Vichit recalled how Thai soldiers made several visits to China during the fight against the insurgency, demonstrating their sincerity and seeking China’s cooperation to halt support for the communist group in Thailand. These visits yielded fruitful outcomes, ultimately leading Beijing to cease providing assistance to the communist group in Thailand.
He further discussed the crisis of communist ideology prevalent from 1973 to 1979, during which many students and academics took refuge in the forests, engaging in armed resistance against state officials and resulting in the deaths of at least 700 soldiers annually. However, in 1980, former Prime Minister Gen Prem Tinsulanonda issued cabinet orders 66/2523 (1980) and 65/2525 (1982), offering amnesty and a return to civilian life for surrendering communist fighters. These orders played a significant role in the demise of the Communist Party of Thailand (CPT) and the end of the insurgency.
Gen Vichit underscored the Thai military’s key role in developing relations with China during the suppression of the communist insurgency, acknowledging that this problem could not be resolved through conventional diplomacy. He highlighted the trust gained from China as a result of their actions, emphasising the current sound and steady growth in bilateral relations, particularly in terms of trade and investment cooperation.
During the early stages of Thailand-China cooperation, Beijing provided over 1,000 scholarships to Thai soldiers and civil servants from various ministries to study the Chinese language. The TCCEA has worked closely with the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries to strengthen collaboration, enhancing both social and economic development between the two nations. China views Thailand as a significant trade and investment strategic partner, increasing investments in the country, which boasts an exceptional logistics system that can seamlessly connect with high-speed trains crossing from China to Laos.
Regarding education, Gen Vichit noted that approximately 30,000 Chinese students are currently studying various subjects in Thai universities nationwide, contributing to the development of the educational system. Furthermore, he highlighted the profound impact of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s frequent visits to China, which have impressed the Chinese people and fostered greater trust between the two countries, thanks to her strong efforts in strengthening people-to-people relations.
Nerver-ending story
Panda politics
China started gifting giant pandas to other countries in 1941 as a tool of diplomacy. After a policy adjustment in 1984 following a huge decrease in the giant panda population, the country's cuddliest diplomats have been sent to other countries on a lease term instead of gifted. Thailand is no exception.
In 2001, Gen Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, then a deputy prime minister, started a bilateral dialogue between China and Thailand for an agreement to have giant pandas sent here as a symbol of friendship between the two nations.
Just two years later, two giant pandas were sent to Thailand as part of a 10-year breeding conservation programme. The male panda, Chuang Chuang, and female counterpart, Lin Hui, suddenly became the stars of Chiang Mai Zoo.
Following successful artificial insemination, Lin Hui gave birth to female Lin Ping in 2009.
Chuang Chuang, Lin Hui and Lin Ping created a huge panda phenomenon in Thailand where all roads headed to Chiang Mai. Chiang Mai Zoo welcomed a lot of visitors from not just the northern province itself but also from around Thailand to witness the cuteness of the panda family. The adorable creatures painted a vibrant tourism landscape. A number of activities were initiated in response to the craze. When Lin Ping was born, Thais were asked to submit names for the cub and the favourite would be decided through votes. The campaign received a lot of attention and positive feedback from the public.
The name Lin Ping eventually received 13.2 million postcard votes. The lucky voters were then awarded with cash prizes, cars and a tour package to visit the Panda Breeding Centre in Chengdu, China.
People across Thailand could also follow the three pandas through a 24-hour live broadcast from November 2009 to October 2012.
In 2013, Lin Ping was sent back to China under the loan agreement. Earlier this year, the Royal Thai Consulate-General in Chengdu unveiled pictures of Lin Ping so that Thai fans could see how she was doing. During her 10 years back in China, Lin Ping gave birth to another cub at the Panda Breeding Centre in Chengdu.
After the death of Chuang Chuang in 2019, his mate Lin Hui died at the age of 21 in April this year.
The presence of the three giant pandas during the past decades is more than just soft power or diplomacy from China. The panda family is indeed a mascot of love, laughter and bond among Thais, young and old alike. — Arusa Pisuthipan
Mala heating up Thai kitchens
“China is the place for food but Sichuan is the place for flavour” is a popular saying in China and despite the heat in Thailand, mala, the quintessential spice, is having several moments in various ways.
A combination of two Chinese characters, numbing and spicy, mala’s numbing effect is caused by the peppercorn, which contains 3% hydroxy-alpha-sanshool. With it’s origins in Sichuan (hence the English name), the sauce or seasoning is made using herbs, ground spices and the infamous Sichuan peppercorn. Not a native to China, the chilli peppers were brought to the country from South America. It is also not an actual peppercorn but dried berries of the Chinese prickly ash shrub, associated with the citrus family, with an intense fragrant, lemony flavour, producing that familiar tingly-numbing sensation in the mouth. It isn’t spicy but when blended with chillies, the mala flavour comes alive.
Traditionally, the most popular way to consume it was simmering the sauce or seasoning in oil, also known as mala tang or as we know it — mala hotpot. Hotpot is still the most popular way to eat it. Though the precise origins of hotpot are unclear, sources say it originated from Chongqing's night markets that catered to pier workers in the 19th and 20th centuries. Often served with off-cuts like stomach, kidney and also blood, the strong and oily broth not only got rid of the smell of cheap meats, it also helped preserve the food.
Though hotpot isn’t the only dish that lends its popularity to mala. Enter mala xiang guo, roughly translated as spicy stir-fry, which has its origins in Dongbei where Sichuan people migrated to in search of a better life. The mala seasoning is stir-fried with meat or vegetables for that signature salty and spicy taste.
Though it is not hard to see why mala is popular in Thailand, both cuisines pack a punch, heat-wise. Sichuan cuisine coincides with the spicy taste preferences of Thai diners. In 2015, HRH Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn asked for Sichuan cuisine on her 60th birthday dinner menu. This had a trickle-down effect on the Thai public. In 2017, it was reported that a study on eating habits of Thai students in China reported more than 50% preferred spicy chicken and spicy hotpot. Enter the mala hotpot.
Although it opened in 2019, the extremely popular international chain Haidilao shows no signs of slowing down and neither do the queues outside the restaurant in CentralWorld. Founded in 1994, the chain is known for its Sichuan-style hotpot, which is the mala broth, and a table-front noodle dance. However, it is not just the food that makes the place a hit, it is the services offered — shoe shining, manicures and mini massages — while you stand in queue, which makes the wait so much more worthwhile.
Here are just a few mala restaurants in Bangkok:
Shu Daxia from Chengdu recently opened at Lat Phrao’s Crystal Design Center, offering traditional mala broth simmered over 12 hours.
Huolong Chinese Mala HotPot & Grill, which translates to fire dragon in Mandarin. It’s worth the trek to Intrawat 35.
Having opened in 2022, Hahamala Chinese Restaurant is fairly new to the Sichuan food scene in Bangkok. The restaurant serves hotpot but also does dry mala dishes. Head over to 14/3 Rama I.
LT Fish has three branches in Bangkok — CentralWorld, True Digital Park and Central Rama 9.
It would be a shame to leave out the Huay Khwang area and all its hotpot restaurants, which are as plentiful in the area as 7-Elevens. — Nianne-Lynn Hendricks
Chinese influence on screen
There is much more to Chinese onscreen entertainment than kung fu movies, especially with the 2019 establishment of WeTV, a leading video streaming service operated by Tencent.
Before 2019, Thai viewers had to rely on illegal platforms that provided Thai subtitles in order to watch Chinese media.
The popular Chinese Boy’s Love (BL) novel The Untamed became a phenomenon in Thailand in 2019. The period series ignited viewers' interest in Chinese series.
Rewadee Jadjenavee, creator of the Sawok Aei Jong Seb Niyai Jeen page (translated as disciples must read Chinese novels), with over 363,000 followers on Facebook, explained that since The Untamed was based on a popular BL novel, it gained much anticipation from fans, despite the two leading actors being newcomers.
“The script of The Untamed was well written and remained faithful to the original novel, so viewers were not disappointed. The chemistry between the two leading actors was excellent. The production elements such as costumes, props and scenes were exquisite. All these factors contributed to the immense success of The Untamed in Thailand. This TV series helped WeTV grow 250%. The platform was downloaded an average of one million times per month. It is an achievement that no other Chinese TV series can compete with,” said Rewadee.
After the immense success of The Untamed, many BL series were produced in 2020. However, before they were launched, the Chinese government implemented a strict policy to regulate online content in 2021. This censorship from Beijing has had an impact on the content of TV series.
“Based on the BL novel, The Untamed presents the relationship between the main male characters as a friendship, not a romantic relationship due to LGBTI relationships not being accepted in China. The Chinese censors believe that BL series may cause a negative influence on young people. Since 2021, approximately 10 BL series have not been released. Other content that the Chinese government censors includes violence, obscenity and threats to national security. The government frequently changes it censorship policies which causes restrictions on content creation. As a result, most period dramas involve stories of Chinese gods and immortals,” explained Rewadee.
While Chinese viewers appreciate modern dramatic TV, Thai viewers prefer period series such as The Romance of Tiger and Rose (2020), Love like the Galaxy (2022), A Dream of Splendor (2022) and Till the End of the Moon (2023).
“Chinese period TV series are unique due to their spectacular production and CGI effects. In the recent popular series, Till the End of the Moon, more than 40 costumes were designed for the male characters and over 35 costumes for the main female character. The physical appearance of actors play an important part in attracting viewers. In today’s digital age, many viewers watch short video platforms. When they see good looking actors on short clips, they want to know more about the TV series. However, an excellent script and acting will encourage viewers to follow the series,” said Rewadee.
Since entertainment is a form of soft power, watching TV series has impact on viewers’ behaviour.
“If viewers can afford it, they may travel to locations that appear in the series. Hengdian World Studios is the most popular location as it offers the possibility of seeing actors and actresses at the studio. Other activities include studying language and purchasing related items to the TV series and its actors. While a series is airing, the sale of its original novel in Thai will increase,” said Rewadee.
Chinese series with Thai subtitles are currently available via iQIYI, WeTV, YouKu, TrueID and MonoMax applications. — Suwitcha Chaiyong.
The TikTok craze
TikTok, the globally renowned social media platform, has experienced a meteoric rise to fame in recent years, captivating the attention of users worldwide. It is undeniable that, over the years, this short video platform has become a part of people's lifestyles.
Thailand, known for its vibrant culture and tech-savvy population, is no exception to this phenomenon. Since its introduction, TikTok has swiftly gained popularity in the country, leaving an indelible impact on Thai society and becoming an emblem of soft power.
TikTok, developed by the Chinese company ByteDance, was launched globally in September 2017. However, it wasn't until 2019 that the application began to gain significant traction in Thailand. With its user-friendly interface and a unique algorithm that tailors content to individual preferences, TikTok quickly became a viral sensation.
Thai users, especially the younger demographic, were captivated by the platform's short-form videos, engaging challenges and the opportunity to showcase their creativity. Much like YouTube and its creators, one of TikTok's standouts is that it is a space that made names for countless "ordinary people" who don't have to be celebrities to be able to create their own identity and expand their content on the platform.
The tools for filming, editing, and even adding stickers and effects, as well as many copyrighted soundtracks, mean the creation of short videos is no longer a difficult task. TikTok's machine learning also helps to deliver content to the target audience — many people can create viral trends overnight. As a result, many people have emerged on the TikTok platform and become professional creators and influencers with stable income.
TikTok has a diverse range of content that resonates with users. Dance challenges have become one of the most popular forms of content on the platform. Thai TikTokers have embraced various dance trends, creating unique choreography and showcasing their skills. The platform has also helped stimulate the music industry for a new generation of singers/songwriters and many famous artists around the world choose to debut their new singles on it.
Additionally, comedic skits, lip-sync videos and beauty tutorials have become popular genres on TikTok in Thailand. Beauty influencers and make-up artists have found a space to share their expertise, promoting Thai beauty brands and influencing consumer trends. The platform has given rise to a new wave of Thai influencers who have successfully projected the nation's soft power globally. Thai cuisine, for instance, has become a popular theme on TikTok, with videos showcasing traditional recipes and street food stalls garnering millions of views.
Today as the platform continues to evolve, TikTok's influence in Thailand has been nothing short of remarkable. TikTok allows its users to express their creativity and connect with like-minded individuals. So far, we have seen many Thai TikTokers successfully project cultural heritage, arts and cuisine to a global audience, and contribute to the country's soft power. — Tatat Bunnag
Chinese growing in popularity
Chinese growing in popularity
Mandarin Chinese is one of the most popular foreign languages among Thais wishing to take up another language, with many believing proficiency in Mandarin can help them secure high-paying jobs.
According to Pusadee Keetaworanart, manager of Oriental Culture Academy, a Chinese language school in Pathumwan district, an increasing number of Thai students are taking up Chinese, with the hope of landing a job with a big Chinese company once they graduate.
She said many believe that fluency in Chinese will help them secure a high-paying job.
Speaking ahead of the 48th anniversary of Sino-Thai diplomatic relations in July, Ms Pusadee this belief shows the growing importance of the Chinese language on the world stage.
"No one would be flocking to learn Chinese had China remained poor," she said. As one of the world's economic superpowers, China is a crucial part of the global supply chain.
As such, she said, Chinese has become a useful language in international business.
Ms Pusadee, also the editor of New Chinese Daily News newspaper in Thailand, said schools have employed different methods to teach the language.
At her academy, she said, students have found it helpful to use songs as means to practise pronouncing words and begin conversing in Chinese.
The academy also maintains good ties with universities in China which grant scholarships for Thai students to further their studies in China, Ms Pusadee says.
As the one of the main drivers of development in the region, Chinese is widely used across Asia, with some two billion fluent speakers across the globe.
In Thailand, Chinese became a popular language under King Rama IV. The language is included in the national curriculum and is taught at schools alongside other foreign languages, such as French, German, Spanish, and Japanese.
Life changing
Vatanya Sinjit, 27, a primary school teacher, said she made up her mind to take up Chinese when she was in Year 10, believing command of the language will help her in her senior year.
She stuck with her decision when she reached university, opting to major in Chinese and Cultural Studies at Huachiew Chalermprakiat University.
While she was a student, she received a scholarship from the Chinese Language Teacher Association of Thailand to study at Jinan University in China, on the condition she must come back to Thailand and become a Chinese language teacher once she completed her studies.
"Studying Chinese in China helped me advance my linguistic skills and broaden my cultural knowledge through daily life experiences.
"All subjects were taught in Chinese including specialised subjects. These helped me improve my Chinese skills quickly," Ms Vatanya said.
She said she was delighted to see many Thai students learning Chinese, especially since many are genuinely interested in learning the language.
Aradee Kao-ien, 32, a Chinese language lecturer at a university, said she started studying Chinese when she was in Year 10. Now, she has a PhD in Chinese Literature Teaching.
"I know a lot of people study Chinese because of their interest in Chinese superstars, but for me, it is because I love this language. The more I learn, the more I like it,” she said.
She said the fact that many of her students have gone on to live better lives is a source of joy and pride.
Ms Aradee has also helped students with disabilities learn Chinese language skills, saying the experience inspired her to develop new methods for teaching Chinese for students with disabilities.
She hopes the method could be help improve the quality of teaching in the future, she said.