When you picture Thailand, chances are the bustling streets of Bangkok, the smell of street food, the magnificent temples, and of course, the tuk-tuk, that colourful, three-wheeled motorised rickshaw, come to mind.

The Asean Economic Community has kicked off, expected to promote the 10-member Asean's prosperity. Yet, as of today, this old tricycle driver in Songkhla hits the road as usual, taking his passenger along a beachfront road.