The merits of MR Kukrit

Former prime minister MR Kukrit Pramoj is remembered as not just a politician but an actor, a khon dancer, a writer, a journalist and an orator. Seventeen years after his death, the 100th anniversary of Kukrit’s birth provides an occasion to assess his lingering influence on contemporary Thailand.
A cultural institute and museum were established in his name. Siam Rath, the newspaper he founded, continues to publish. His novels are still sold in bookshops. His following even seems to be growing.
Journalists, scholars, authors and historians will today discuss that legacy at a seminar titled “Siam’s Philosopher Named Kukrit” at the Centara Grand @ Central World.
Organised by the Culture Ministry and the MR Kukrit Institute, the seminar will examine Kukrit’s role in international politics, the mass media and the performing arts and his relationship with the monarchy.
Another former premier, Anand Panyarachun, will discuss Kukrit’s political views along with Paul F Wedel of the Kenan Institute Asia. Broadcaster Somkiat Onwimol, Siam Rath columnist Assasiri Dhammachote and filmmaker-journalist Steve Van Beek will cover his media influence, with Nation Group president Pana Janviroj serving as moderator.
Professors Matanee Rutnin and Poonpit Amatayakul and Dr Seree Wongmontha will delve into Kukrit and the arts, and his dealings with royalty will be examined by Ni-on Snidwongse na Ayutthaya, General Wasit Detkunchorn and Professor Thongthong Chantarangsu.
The Culture Ministry and the recently established Kukrit Institute want to promote his ideas for the benefit of the younger generation. Many of the seminar’s speakers believe he possessed qualities that are now rare among Thai politicians, says Khemchat Thepchai, the ministry’s inspector general. If young people embrace those values, he says, it will only help the country.
The Kukrit Institute serves as a learning centre, with a library and exhibitions offering insights into Kukrit’s life and philosophy.
Siam Rath’s Assasiri, who worked under Kukrit, says the former PM founded the newspaper in the hope of educating Thais about democracy. “Kukrit believed Thais needed to be well informed about politics and democracy, and Siam Rath set out to disseminate that knowledge.
“At one point the paper was well regarded as an institution that had created generation after generation of columnists and journalists. At one time Kukrit’s writing was seen as the basis for Thai democracy. The policy was twofold: promote a democratic system with the King as head of state, and protest against coups.”
Assasiri’s “Soi Suan Phloo” column in turn had a significant impact on politics, says Thai Journalists Association president Chawarong Limpatamapanee. “He had a lot of credibility because he was educated, knowledgeable and experienced. He offered professional rather than personal commentary.”
Kukrit was instrumental in promoting knowledge about the monarchy as an institution, says Chulalongkorn University lecturer Suwanna Kriangkraiphetch. “Kukrit gave Thais a much better understanding of the royal institution through his articles. He knew a lot about the relationship between society and the monarchy, as well as about the royal ceremonies.”

 
Much to discuss

The seminar today from 8.30 to 4.30 at the Centara Grand is open to all. The Bt1,000 admission fee includes lunch. Reserve a seat at (02) 273 1056 or (02) 273 1060 or [email protected].
Find out more from the Kukrit Institute at (02) 286 5385-6.
The seminar has the backing of The Nation, Bangkok Post, Post Today, Matichon and the Thai Journalists Association.