Stories about Thailand from February, 2012
Thailand: Facebook Blamed for Teen Pregnancies
Netizens in Thailand react to the report of the National Economic and Social Development Board that popular social networking site Facebook is partly to blame for the unwanted teen pregnancies in the country. Thailand has one of the highest rates of teen pregnancies in the world.
Southeast Asia’s Three-Wheeled Vehicles
Tuktuk, Beca, Kuliglig, Trishaw, Pedicab, Becak, Tricycle. These are the famous three-wheeled vehicles in the Southeast Asian region. They can be seen in the streets of urban centers but governments are trying to ban these ubiquitous pedicabs and motorized rickshaws in major throughfares.
Thailand: “Reform the World’s Harshest Lèse Majesté Law”
Several groups, scholars, and activists in Thailand are demanding the amendment of Article 112 of the country’s Criminal Code or the lese majeste law, which forbids anyone from insulting the King and members of the Royal Family. The issue has sparked debates on whether it's time to reform this controversial law.
Thailand: “The Purple People Toilet”
Richard Barrow uploads a photo of the ‘Purple People Toilet’ in Thailand. It's a toilet for those who belong to the “Third Sex” or in Thailand they are often called “Lady Boys”
Southeast Asia: Restoring Historic Towns
Dr. Apiwat Ratanawaraha writes about several projects in Southeast Asia that seek to restore historic towns and promote cultural tourism. Some of the ongoing projects are located in Singapore’s Boat Quay, Malaysia’s Georgetown, and Thailand’s Chiang Mai
Thailand: Scholars Press for Lese Majeste Law Reform
An open letter signed by 224 international scholars, writers, and activists was sent to Thailand Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra expressing grave concern over the use of Lese Majeste Law to stifle dissent in the country.
Thailand: Flood Impact on Rice Production
Aim Sinpeng writes about the impact of last year's massive flooding in Thailand on the country's rice production. Thailand is the world's largest rice exporter.
Common Language in Southeast Asia
What should be the common language in the Southeast Asian region? Thai, Bahasa Indonesia or Bahasa Melayu? Kaewmala discusses this issue.