Worried about Thai identity
Pravit Rojanaphruk writes that phrases like "non-Thai", "ungrateful" and "burden to the motherland" have been used by ultra-royalists to label people they deem anti-monarchist.
That is scary.
Buying tickets at the crocodile farm in Samut Prakan, the cashier asked me with a straight face, “Are you Thai?” I was startled and my spine was chilled for a moment, thinking, “Oh boy, did I do anything to offend the high institution? Did I unknowingly step on a baht coin? Or, did I not wear a pink shirt?” (during the long holiday around HM the King’s birthday). Once I realised that there is a dual-price there, I sighed with relief and said, “Yes, I’m Thai”.
It’s getting to the point now where being asked “Are you Thai?” can make you nervous if you are Thai.
Somsak Pola
Samut Prakan
