OPINION

Mind over tariffs

Re: "Call for new tariffs on Chinese goods", (Business, Aug 8).

Imposing tariffs on Chinese goods to protect Thai factories from cheaper Chinese items of equal quality is likely to inflict net long-run harm on Thai consumers and shouldn't be done.

We'll be hit with a double blow: importers will pass on the tariffs to their customers, and China would probably retaliate with tariffs on Thai goods. China is our largest trade partner, accounting for 13.7% of Thai exports in 2021. Our exports to China have risen at an amazing annualised 75.4% from $1.82bn in 2017 to $30.2bn in 2022. China's the largest market for our agricultural products, accounting for 41.92% of our total farm exports in 2023. We levy tariffs on their goods at our peril.

So, what to do? We can diversify into new markets and develop new products, adding value where we have a competitive advantage. We should raise our quality standards and develop new distribution channels, such as online.

Almost two-thirds (64.7%) of youth and adults in Thailand -- including farmers, can barely read and understand short texts to solve a simple problem such as following medical instructions -- the result of decades of deliberately ignoring our education system. To sustainably compete, we must thoroughly reform our education/training systems so that our youth follow Albert Einstein, who noted that "Education is not the learning of facts, but the training of the mind to think."

Phuket Airport's rise

Re: "Suvarnabhumi needs more than just free spaces", (Opinion, Aug 1).

Suvarnabhumi International Airport is ranked 68th in the world owing to the government and AoT struggling to improve quality. The question is why Phuket International Airport is not ranked and subjected to any assessment despite this touristy town attracting tourists from around the world.

That said, Phuket Airport needs to be improved in terms of quality.

AoT should emphasise that Phuket Airport should be considered a priority rather than the third new green investment in a new international airport.

The government should also look at the reality of cost-benefits.

Clear as mud

Re: "Quest for clarity", (PostBag, Aug 8).

Without wishing to labour the point in what has become an increasingly frustrating "quest for clarity" on the new tax rules for expats, I do have to ask what Grumpy thinks there is for an investigative journalist to investigate.

Any questions he or she could submit to the Revenue Department have been asked many times by expats themselves as well as by Thai tax accountants no doubt, who will be dealing with the current uncertainty if not resolved by January.

The onus is entirely on the tax authorities to make a few decisions, incorporate them into the Revenue Code and make them public. It will add insult to injury if there are, in fact, as Grumpy suggests, people out there who have more information, and it is not generally available.

Taking the mickey

Re: "PM shrugs off foreign critics", (BP, Aug 9).

Alas, a mockery of democracy. I quietly weep for many.

Mighty fearful

Re: "Axeing parties not helpful", (BP, Aug 8).

The obvious truth in present day Thailand is that power does not rest with the people's elected representatives but with the military who amazingly get allowed to write a constitution and the judicial system that determine just who is allowed to stand for election. Rather frightening isn't it?

A shocking statistic

Re: "Ministry seeks to amend law on domestic violence", (BP, Aug 6).

Mind-blowing statistics such as domestic violence is the leading cause of injury to women -- more than car accidents, muggings, and rapes combined, or one in three women experience domestic violence puts in perspective the catastrophic ongoing crisis that happens behind closed doors. However, such an inhumane experience should gain society's utmost attention as these women deserve some peace and justice, for they are courageous in standing up to individuals who hurt them so painfully, whether emotionally or physically.

Beyond physical scarring and injuries, studies have found that victims may develop severe psychological issues such as anxiety, and depression and more diseases may also develop. Not only do they have serious outcomes for the person but domestic violence may impact others around as well. The "cycle of violence" is when a child experiences trauma at a young age so when they mature and have an intimate relationship, they may show signs of being an abuser since this may be a norm for them and a way to deal with their issues. This is because kids learn from their parental figures and will imitate what has been engraved in their minds when they were adolescents; therefore, it is critical to break this cycle as generations down the line will be impacted negatively. However, this is not always what will happen, as it depends on the situation.

I am a firm believer in the importance of learning the law. In this case, it shows another instance where the law saves lives. Victims often are embarrassed to tell people they are being domestically abused, or in some cases, they are scared of being shunned by the police or other services. Furthermore, people may be afraid that others would not believe their claims because society may be nasty at times. However, a small group will not admit that they are being exploited because they are not aware of their rights or the laws in place to protect victims. The criminal code states, "This law prescribes criminal offences, including, but not limited to, offences related to domestic violence cases (e.g., violence against body, sexual offence and offence against liberty)." So, logically, the law protects us citizens against any harm but victims may be too afraid to reach out still due to economic barriers. However, public defenders will always be available for support.

The issue of domestic violence cannot be ignored by society and we must acknowledge the severity of it by raising awareness. The victims suffer all sorts of injuries, both mentally and physically. Also future generations may be at risk as well. By raising awareness about the issue and educating ourselves as well as our loved ones about how the law protects us. Also, how can we go to services that will protect us and bring us justice without fear of retaliation? We must endeavour to create a culture in which domestic abuse is not tolerated, and survivors may recover securely.

Call 191 in case of danger

A star is born

Re: "Khelif proves too strong for Janjaem: Thai apologises after settling for a bronze", (Sport, Aug 8).

In the heart of Nong Khai, under the warm embrace of the Thai sun, Thai boxer Janjaem Suwannapheng has risen like a phoenix, her spirit as indomitable as the land that nurtured her. This 23-year-old boxing prodigy has made her homeland proud by securing a bronze medal in the women's 66kg boxing category at the Paris 2024 Olympics, standing as a testament to the enduring spirit of Thailand. Her journey, culminating in triumph on July 27, 2024, began with the echoes of Muay Thai, a sport she was introduced to by her father and grandfather.

In the bustling lanes of Nong Khai, where the Mekong River weaves tales of ancient glory, Janjaem's early footsteps were guided by the fierce and graceful art of Muay Thai. Competing under the name "Nong Bee P Prasit," she soon found the ring too small for her burgeoning talent.

Transitioning to boxing due to a dearth of worthy Muay Thai opponents, Janjaem quickly ascended through the ranks, her fists writing new chapters in Thailand's storied sports history. A silver medal at the 2022 Asian Games and another at the 2023 Women's World Boxing Championships paved her path to glory, which she adorned with gold at the 2023 Southeast Asian Games.

Paris witnessed Janjaem's mettle as she faced Busenaz Surmeneli of Turkey, the 2020 Olympic gold medalist. In a match that will be remembered for its sheer tenacity, Janjaem emerged victorious in the quarterfinals, guaranteeing her at least a bronze medal. Although she was eventually bested by Algeria's Imane Khelif in the semifinals, her performance ignited a wave of pride throughout Thailand.

For a nation that has long celebrated its warriors, Janjaem's success breathes new life into a legacy that has seen fewer Olympic triumphs in recent years. Her victories have renewed the nation's fervour for the sport, serving as a source of immense pride for her family and supporters.

In Janjaem Suwannapeng, one finds the spirit of Thailand – resilient, humble, and fiercely proud. As she looks ahead to future competitions, she remains a symbol of perseverance and dedication, embodying the essence of Thai boxing and inspiring young athletes across the nation.

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