Smiling Country -- A Journey Through Thai Culture

Author: Ye Tong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-04-01
Features: Thailand, formerly known as Siam, is undoubtedly the most exotic country in Southeast Asia. As soon as you step onto Thai soil, you will experience the traditional Thai etiquette of "wai," a unique custom that gives you a sense of warmth. Thailand is often called the "Land of Smiles," a result of the Thai people's tradition of smiling and respecting others, which has been passed down through centuries of culture and tradition. This tradition has long existed even before tourists arrived in Thailand. This land boasts countless breathtaking attractions, unique culture, and enduring customs. The people of Thailand are genuinely hospitable and warmly welcome foreign friends at all times, making it both a friendly nation and a leisurely paradise.
Thailand is located in the center of the Indochina Peninsula, bordered by Cambodia to the east, Myanmar to the west and northwest, Laos to the northeast, and Malaysia to the south. The country covers approximately 513,115 square kilometers, comparable in size to France, with a coastline stretching over 2,600 kilometers. The terrain can be divided into four major regions: the northeastern highland area, which is geologically arid with an elevation of about 150 to 300 meters. The Mekong River forms a natural border with Laos in the upper reaches, where it originates as the Lancang River in China, and the Mun River flows through the region. The western part of the highland is slightly higher, serving as a natural boundary for the central Mekong River Plain. The main city in this region is Nakhon Ratchasima. The world's oldest bronze civilization, dating back about 5,000 years, originated in this Phrae region.
The southern part is the northern part of the Malay Peninsula, characterized by hilly terrain. The eastern coast has numerous excellent ports and is a major producer of rubber and tin. It also features many beautiful beaches. The main cities in this region include Hat Yai and Songkhla. Abundant marine resources are another distinctive feature. The northern part is mountainous, covered in tropical forests, with Doi Inthanon at an elevation of 2,570 meters being the highest peak in the country. The four major tributaries of the Chao Phraya River—the Ping, Wang, Tha Pho, and Nan—flow south through the valleys, forming four major river valleys. These valleys are one of Thailand's main agricultural areas, while the mountains are rich in teak forests. The main city in this region is Chiang Mai, known for its lychees, rambutans, and strawberries. The central part is the famous Chao Phraya River Plain, the country's primary rice-producing and fruit-growing region, as well as its heartland. The capital, Bangkok, is located here and serves as the political, economic, transportation, cultural, and trade center of Thailand.
Thais compare their country's territory to the head of an elephant: the north represents the "elephant's crown," the northeastern region the "elephant's ears," the Gulf of Thailand the "elephant's mouth," and the southern strip the "elephant's trunk." This region is also an excellent destination for tourism and leisure.
Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. The constitution recognizes the king as the head of state, commander-in-chief of the armed forces, and protector of Buddhism and all religions, as well as an inviolable individual. The current king is Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as King Rama IX. The parliament is formally divided into two houses: the Senate and the House of Representatives. Since 2000, Thailand's Senate and House of Representatives have been operating according to the new constitution. Previously, senators were appointed by the Council of Ministers from various fields, but under the new constitution, 200 senators are now elected directly by the people. Senators cannot belong to any political party, and their elections are overseen by an electoral committee established under the new constitution. In March 2000, the first formal election for senators took place, and any candidates found guilty of electoral fraud were "disqualified" by the electoral committee. As a result, five rounds of elections were held before the final 200 senators were elected on July 22. This term for the Senate is six years, making it the first directly elected Senate with significantly increased power, including the ability to approve laws, oversee the government, and even participate in motions to demand a new government.
In the House of Representatives, the election of members is divided into two parts: 100 members are elected from party lists, and 400 are elected from constituencies. The new parliament will consist of 500 members, and the government will be formed based on the number of members each party wins (if a party secures more than half of the seats) or a coalition government (if no single party wins a majority). The election for the House of Representatives was completed in 2001.
Thailand has 76 provinces (chao phraya), 573 districts, and 7,976 sub-districts. The mayor of Bangkok is elected every four years by the people, while other provinces are governed by governors appointed by the central government. These governors serve as important bridges between the central government and the people in their regions. Below the provinces are districts, sub-districts, and villages.
The king is deeply loved and respected by the people of Thailand, and any disrespect toward him can be punished as a legal offense. In cinemas and theaters, when the national anthem is played, people are expected to stand at attention.
Throughout its long history, Thailand has generously welcomed immigrants from various ethnic groups. The total population of Thailand is over 60 million. Today, the people living in Thailand share a vibrant ethnic diversity—primarily Thais, Khmers, Mons, Laotians, Malays, Chinese, Iranians, and Indians. As a result, there is no typical Thai appearance or physique in the country. However, Thais can be categorized into petite Thais, statuesque Thais, round-faced Thais, dark-skinned Thais, and fair-skinned Thais. Through long-term social observation, one can notice some common features in Thai facial structures. The most significant common trait is: large, dark, and bright eyes, double eyelids, a flat nose bridge, slightly thick lips, and large earlobes. Thais have twice won the Miss World title.
In addition to the majority Thai population, there are also small mountain ethnic groups in Thailand, such as the Hmong, Lisu, Lahu, Yao, Akha, Lhoba, and Mlabri. As recent immigrants, the Chinese, Laotians, Malays, and Indians have largely integrated into Thai society. In Thailand, 73% of Thais work in agriculture, 11% live in Bangkok, and 16% reside in other towns. The population density is approximately 120 people per square kilometer, with the central plain exceeding 400 people per square kilometer, where over one-third of the population is concentrated.