Do we want a positive new beginning or not?

First, I now realise that we have so many canals that Bangkok deserves to be called the “Venice of the East”. This overlooked natural infrastructure can enrich tourism if we know how to exploit it.

Second, the disruption from Thailand as part of the global supply chain has caused worldwide disruption of manufacturing of automobiles and computers. Besides tourism, we should be proud that we are also a country that matters globally in other fields.

Third, in spite of personal losses, Thais take misfortune as karma. Not the government, but the Army has commanded fantastic respect from all citizens in this episode. Our neighbouring country, also suffering the same fate, has not been helped at all by its government or army. They are left to their own fate.

Fourth, the international press was surprised at the many smiling faces, innovative methods of floating and cooperation among the victims. No comparison to other countries having suffered this yearly fate.

Fifth, the ugliness of politics and incompetence have been so obvious, and to the disgust of all neutral onlookers. Even if the democratic system is temporarily suspended, I doubt there would be that much objection (provided it is only a short timeframe).

Finally, Thailand is now at a crossroads. Either we remain as before and eventually forget this tragedy and sink to a disgusting level with foreign investors leaving Thailand in droves, or we can become dynamic and uplift our level to that of South Korea. The latter requires a change of attitude, elimination of ugly politics and overhauling of risk-management systems. Has this government got the courage and ability to retrieve its lost image? Judging from its performance on crisis management, I doubt it.

Songdej Praditsmanont

Bangkok