Giving thanks
Re: "An ever evolving MFA turns 150", (Opinion, April 15).
I wish to thank Kavi Chongkittavorn for citing me in his fine article.
The phrase "sell-preservation through conciliation" as cited actually comes from Dr Neon Snidvongs' book, Siam's Foreign Relations in the Reign of King Mongkut, 1851-1868 (International Studies Center, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, 2023).
It comes from Chapter 12, "King Mongkut's contribution to the formation of Siam's foreign policy".
Dr Neon was quoting from W F Vella, Siam under King Rama III 1824-1851 (New York, 1957) page 124. The full sentence reads:
"It is sometimes contended that in order to meet the danger of Western expansion, King Mongkut merely carried on the twin policies which he inherited from former rulers, namely the age-old practice of playing on the mutual rivalry of the Western powers and the practice, more recently instituted by his immediate predecessor Rama III, and described by an American writer as 'the policy of self preservation by conciliation and concession' which had led the King to open the country to Western traders in response to their demands."
By the way, I am glad your newspaper made the correction to the caption of the photo (April 16) to read: The photo shows a statue of King Mongkut (King Rama IV) in front of Saranrom Palace. The palace was the MFA's first home."
Indeed, Prince Devawongse's statue was not far behind that of King Mongkut's, but inside Saransom Palace.
Prince Devawongse's statue now stands in front of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sri Ayuthaya Road.
Tej Bunnag
Exactly three days
Re: "All foreigners must file digital arrival card", (BP, April 20).
Thank you for alerting travellers to this crucial information. However, readers should be aware that the arrival card should be completed within three days before arrival, not "at least" three days before travelling as the article states.
It would also be useful to know if a phone app for the TDAC will be available.
Jerry Huguet
One law for the rich
Re: "Right of way for the rich", (Editorial, April 19).
Smitthipat Leenawarat, brother of a Pheu Thai MP, acts as if his wealth puts him above the law. His efforts seem to be paying off, for police reports suggested that "both sides" caused an elderly pickup driver to crash into a median barrier.
But out of his own mouth is Smittipat condemned, for he told cops that he chased the elderly driver from the rear and clipped his pickup, sending the driver to the ICU and injuring the driver's wife. Was Smitthipat just reckless, or did he intend to cause damage?
Smitthipat showed no remorse, intimidated eyewitnesses, and boasted of his connections with PM Paetongtrn Shinawatra, reinforced by pictures on social media of the PM and her father presiding over his ordination.
Our elite have long been above the law. For instance, in 2012, Red Bull heir Vorayuth "Boss" Yoovidhya fled to evade charges stemming from the hit-and-run death of a motorcyclist. Our police consistently claim to be unable to locate him, though Associated Press easily found him at a swanky flat in London.
PM Paetongtarn's stonewalled requests to reveal ex-graftbuster Vicha Mahakun's recommendations on reforming the police and public prosecutor's office to prevent a repeat of the Boss incident.
Smitthipat's family members are candidates in next month's Thanyaburi municipal council elections. Demand that they prove that they place rule of law above their clan's vested interests, and vote accordingly.
Burin Kantabutra
CONTACT: BANGKOK POST BUILDING 136 Na Ranong Road Klong Toey, Bangkok 10110 Fax: +02 6164000 email: postbag@bangkokpost.co.th
All letter writers must provide full name address.
All published correspondence is subject to editing at our discretion.
