BizThai: Changing power of women

Maybe you have seen the very old lifestyle of Thai women portrayed in documentaries or films. Have you seen "King Naresuan IV" yet? You shouldn't miss it, because when the next one - "King Naresuan V" - is launched, you may not clearly understand its plots.

In the past, Thai women had to take care of their husbands and families and all household chores and they were expected to be  totally obedient to their husbands. This has always been a stereotype of Thai women. Most men in high society had several wives, the number of whom was considered an indicator of the husband's social and economic status. Some Thai men still stick with this old practice, but these days they normally keep it secret.

Although you may think that Thai women have been treated unfairly, you should understand first that we were taught from a young age about the role and duties that were expected of us, and we grew up in a cultural environment that made us familiar with such practices. It was even a matter of pride for some women to make their husbands comfortable and satisfied. (Read that carefully. I said only some Thai women were proud of that role.)

As a result, some catch phrases have developed:

Cháng tháo nâa - (elephant's from legs - the ones that lead). This normally refers to men, as in: Phûuchai pen cháng tháo nâa

Cháng thao lãng -  (elephant's hind legs - the ones that follow). Normally, this refers to women. Phûuying pen cháng tháo lang

These days, women go to work like men and many are promoted to leadership of organisations. Many are more self-confident in the working world and very independent. Western influence was the most important factor that brought about these changes in the role and status of Thai women, especially for those Thai women who studied aboard. Do you agree?

We no longer mention elephants when we want to discuss leaders and followers. Elephants belong in tourist spots or zoos. This is how it goes, up to date:

Phûu nam -  (leader)

Phûu taam -  (follower)

Phûuchai láe Phûuying pen dâi tháng Phûu nam láe Phûu taam (Men and women can be both leaders and followers).

Word Bank

phûuchai

phûuying

tháng… láe ·Ñ駅áÅÐ

These days, most women find themselves in a favourable position in society. Nevertheless, many Thai women still maintain their sweet and gentle manners and enjoy pleasing their families and even the people around them. How else would you like them to behave?

Kruu Jeab is an executive assistant and administrative manager at KONE Thai Lift. All e-mail regarding the Thai language is welcome at [email protected].