It's only about saving face

It seems most of the reported comments by Thai politicians, police officials and others is first and foremost about the damage this tragedy will do to the tourism industry. Any sympathy or remorse for the death of this innocent woman seems very much in second place, if expressed at all.

Unfortunately I have lived long enough in Thailand to believe this probably represents the reality of Thai values – do not lose face, either as individuals or collectively as a nation. Ignore realities and do everything possible to protect the image.

With unusual alacrity, no doubt due to political pressure, the police seem to have solved the case in record time and have arrested and charged two men. But this will do nothing to allay the fears of potential tourists. When all is said and done, it is totally facile to try and assure tourists that can come to Thailand safe in the knowledge that, if they’re murdered, their killers will be apprehended and punished in short order.

David Brown

Rayong