Stories about Thailand from July, 2008
Thailand: Transvestite toilets
A school in Northeastern Thailand has introduced “transvestite toilets” for male students who choose to dress as females. Connecting the dots criticizes the new toilets.
Thailand: Political crisis
Sovereign Myth dissects the political crisis in Thailand focusing on the “current struggle between liberal and democratic-majoritarian politics” He adds: “In the current circumstances it is not hard to imagine a descent into violence, blood letting and “democratic” excuses.”
Photos of Preah Vihear
John Vink posted several photos of Preah Vihear temple which captured the tension between Thailand and Cambodia. Both countries are claiming the historic site.
Preah Vihear dispute and nationalism
Harry McKinnon blames the “irrational nationalism” of Thai citizens for the rising tension in Preah Vihear temple. Bangkok Pundit believes the upcoming Cambodian election is motivating the opposition to “stoke nationalist sentiment.” Both Thailand and Cambodia are claiming the historic site.
Cambodian and Thai Bloggers on Disputed Preah Vihear Temple
Rising serious tension between Cambodia and Thailand started when UNESCO, on July 7, 2008, declared temple of Preah Vihear as a World Heritage site. The 11th century temple has long been a subject to dispute between the two nations; in 1962, Hague-based International Court of Justice ruled that the ancient Hindu temple belonged to Cambodia.
Cambodia: Preah Vihear victory concert
The Cambodia government held a concert to celebrate the listing of Preah Vihear Temple as World Heritage Site by UNESCO. But tensions are not yet over. Thai troops are still stationed near the temple. Both Thailand and Cambodia are claiming the historic site.
Thailand: Minister resigns over Preah Vihear
Thailand's foreign minister has resigned over the ownership issue of the Preah Vihear temple, which is also being claimed by Cambodia. chut/bloc discussed further its political implications.
Underground Bangkok radio
Gnarly kitty blogs about the UB Radio (Underground Bangkok) – “this is where you will get to hear Bangkok's top DJs mixing and doing their thing live through the virtual radio waves.”
Southeast Asia: Largest oceanariums
Bisean lists the largest oceanariums in Southeast Asia.
Bangkok's new taxi fare
HaPPi like a HiPPo blogs about the new Bangkok taxi fare which was adjusted due to rising oil prices. According to him, good news for drivers but bad news for passengers.
Southeast Asia: Alternative sources of energy
Due to skyrocketing oil prices, many Southeast Asian countries are intensifying efforts to tap alternative sources of energy. Lifestyles are changing since people are now more aware about the oil price crisis.
Preah Vihear and nationalism
Restless Trotter discussed the dangers of misplaced nationalism in many Southeast Asian countries. The blogger cited the growing tension over Preah Vihear temple.