Patriotism is admirable, nationalism regressive

Khun Vint should understand that, when expats make statements in response to claims made by Thais, they are not necessarily complaining. Instead they are often questioning the claim made. Closing one’s mind to constructive opinion from other countries is xenophobic and counterproductive.

“Many expats need to learn more about Thailand,” Khun Vint concludes. “In the meantime, we Thais can progress in our own way and by ourselves”. With the greatest respect, the writer seems to have overlooked the fact that most of the technology from which Thailand benefits and which allows its “progress” came from the same countries as the expats. The internal combustion engine, the jet engine and the silicon chip were not invented in Thailand, nor reinforced concrete, or even the wheel.

Not long ago, Thailand sent a delegation to Germany to study its voting system based on proportional representation. It’s superior to the system used in the UK, and Thais would be wise to adopt it as part of their reforms.

Vint Chavala has an excellent command of the English language, which comes from the UK and is an important means of international communication.

Many expats are married to Thais and have Thai families from whom they gain a considerable understanding of this country and culture. Expats have the benefit of international experience. 

Expats and the home nations have contributed much to Thailand.

The important attitude is an open mind. We all live in an increasingly interdependent world. We must beware of jingoism and think internationally.

JC Wilcox