Journal of Arts and Thai Studies

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Journal of Arts and Thai Studies — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The State Behind the Dotted Line: Thai State Power and Graduated Sovereignty in the Mae Sot Border Area

Sorawitch Thammarativong — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: This academic article examines the shifting role of the Thai state in the Mae Sot border area amid the currents of neoliberal globalization. It challenges the assumption that the Thai state has truly diminished its role in border regions in accordance with neoliberal logic, by posing the central question: Does the Mae Sot border zone exist independently of state intervention, sovereign power, and legal regulation under the context of economic globalization? —and if so, in what ways? By exploring the state’s role in designing and managing the Mae Sot border area, this study seeks to reveal the strategic adjustments in sovereignty and governance undertaken by the Thai state.

Methods: This study draws on an analysis of primary documents such as state policies, laws, and official orders, supplemented by a field visit to Mae Sot district conducted during 5^th–9^th April 2023, in order to provide additional insights for the discussion. The analysis follows a qualitative descriptive approach.

Results: The study revealed that the Thai state has not retreated from the Mae Sot borderland but instead has adopted a strategy of differentiated governance. While certain legal and regulatory functions have been relaxed—such as the suspension of zoning laws and tax exemptions to attract foreign direct investment—state power remains assertively present in the surveillance of migrant labor, the regulation of daily life, and the orchestration of cultural legitimacy. Mae Sot should therefore be reinterpreted as a prototypical neoliberal enclave, which is flexible in legal and economic aspects, yet retains absolute control in certain dimensions. The region operates as a dual space: a zone of infrastructure and transnational capital on one hand, and a site of surveillance and precarious labor on the other. Rights and chances are stratified along the lines of economic class and ethnonational identity, with Burmese migrants facing systemic marginalization under a framework that prioritizes economic growth.

Application of this study: The findings provide an important lens for rethinking state power in border regions. Rather than viewing the border as a fading zone of sovereignty, the study proposes understanding it as a site of calculated state resurgence, wherein state actors reassert control to facilitate global market integration effectively. This insight has implications for policy design concerning special economic zones, labor rights, and migration governance. It also promotes transdisciplinary debates in development studies, border theory, and Southeast Asian political economy, offering the case study of Mae Sot as a model for analyzing similar zones across the Global South.

Conclusions: Mae Sot should not be conceived merely as a peripheral borderland or a stateless frontier. It exemplifies a dynamic interface where sovereignty is reassembled to accommodate and manage transnational flows of capital and labor. The Thai state reveals “behind the dotted line”—not absent but strategically repositioned, allowing neoliberal market mechanisms to flourish while maintaining tight control over mobility and legality. This underscores a broader pattern of state transformation under neoliberal globalization: a shift not towards state retreat but towards adaptive governance, where the state manages economic openness through selective sovereignty, legal flexibility, and infrastructural enclosure. In doing so, the Mae Sot case study challenges the binary notions of state presence/absence and presents a complex analysis of border governance as a multi-layered negotiation practice.

Epistemic Goal of Teaching History in School

Denpong Saenkum, Nattapon Meekaew — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: This article examines the epistemic goal of school-based history education, proposing that the pursuit of historical knowledge should not be centered on attaining absolute truths but rather on cultivating critical reasoning and reflective thinking. The author critiques the conventional classroom focus on fixed facts and authoritative narratives, where students are rarely encouraged to question or consider alternative interpretations. Such practices tend to treat history as a static body of knowledge rather than a dynamic process of inquiry. This study seeks to shift the epistemological orientation of history education toward an open, interpretive, and critical approach, thereby empowering students to become active participants in constructing historical understanding.

Methods: The article employs a theoretical and philosophical approach grounded in the epistemology of Karl Popper. It draws on Popper’s concept of knowledge as a process of conjecture and falsifiability, which views knowledge and understanding as provisional and always subject to revision. Through critical analysis of educational literature and philosophical reasoning, the study reinterprets how historical knowledge can be approached in schools. It questions the traditional emphasis on transmitting authoritative content and proposes a model of learning that foregrounds inquiry, argumentation, and the recognition of multiple perspectives.

Results: From the analysis, it was found that traditional forms of history education will limit students’ intellectual development by encouraging passive absorption of facts rather than active engagement with historical problems. By applying Popper’s epistemology, the article presents an alternative model in which students learn to formulate hypotheses, examine evidence critically, challenge assumptions, and recognize the limitations and biases of historical sources. It emphasizes that understanding the past is not about arriving at final answers but about developing the ability to think historically via understanding context, uncertainty, and interpretation. The result is a more dialogic and democratic approach to historical learning, one that values complexity over simplicity and reasoning over memorization.

Application of this study: The conceptual framework offered in this article has practical implications for curriculum design, classroom pedagogy, and teacher training. Teachers can adopt the strategies that promote discussion, debate, and evidence-based reasoning in their classes. While curricula can be revised to prioritize critical thinking skills over content memorization. This model encourages teachers to create classroom environments in which questioning is welcomed, and historical understanding is recognized as interpretive and constructed. In the broader context, the study contributes to ongoing debates about the role of education in fostering critical citizenship, promoting tolerance of diverse perspectives, and preparing students to engage responsibly with the past and its relevance to the present.

Conclusions: The article concludes that the epistemic aim of history education should not be the transmission of absolute truths, but the development of students’ capacity to reason within uncertainty and engage in thoughtful interpretation. By shifting away from a content-centered model and embracing a process-oriented, critical approach, history education can play a vital role in cultivating reflective, responsible, and intellectually independent individuals. Instead of merely accepting dominant historical narratives, students should be encouraged to analyze, question, and construct meaning based on evidence and context. This approach supports the view that historical knowledge is not fixed but continually changeable, shaped by dialogue, critique, and the recognition of multiple voices.

Challenges of Pronouncing and Applying Thai Tone Rules Faced by Vietnamese Learners

Pham Phuong Linh, Nathasorn Angsuwiriya — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Thai is considered as a foreign language for Vietnamese learners. Developing the teaching of Thai as a foreign language plays an important role in economic, tourism, and educational contexts. However, foreign learners often encounter significant obstacles in learning Thai, particularly its tonal system, which is a crucial factor affecting word meaning. Generally, this obstacle poses a significant challenge for learners whose native language lacks a tonal system, often resulting in difficulties in pronunciation and in distinguishing tonal variations. In the case of Vietnamese learners, although they are familiar with tonal systems, they still encounter difficulties in practicing pronunciation and memorizing tonal rules that do not exist in the Vietnamese phonological system. Moreover, mastering tonal rules also requires an understanding of the structural components of the Thai language, such as the “triyang” (consonant classes), vowels, and final consonants, which presents a considerable challenge. For this reason, it is essential to establish teaching approaches that reduce the complexity of learning and enable learners, particularly Vietnamese students, to more easily understand and retain tonal rules, thereby improving their effectiveness in Thai pronunciation.

Methods: The researcher studied and collected information from the documents related to the tonal system of the Thai language, as presented by Kanchana Naksakul, and the tonal system of the Vietnamese language, as presented by Andreev and Gordina, Doan Thien Thuat, and Nguyen Tuong Lai. Based on the principles of Thai tonal rules according to standard Thai grammar, the researcher collected relevant knowledge, conducted comparative analyses, and employed a descriptive-analytical method to present the findings. Furthermore, a conceptual diagram illustrating the principles of Thai tone rules for Vietnamese learners was constructed to facilitate understanding.

Results: The tonal systems in Thai and Vietnamese share both similarities and differences. Thai has four tone markers and five tonal realizations, whereas Vietnamese has five tone markers and six tonal realizations. The similarities between the two languages can be observed in their tonal sounds. However, there are clear differences, such as the nga tone in Vietnamese and the falling tone (tho) in Thai, which are entirely dissimilar in both tonal contour and articulation. This indicates that Vietnamese learners may find it easier to learn the pronunciation of Thai tones compared with learners from countries without a tonal system. In order for learners to accurately distinguish and produce word tones, it is necessary to understand the fundamental knowledge of the triyang principle, vowels, and final consonants. The most important factors are the concepts of “live” and “dead” syllables, which are related to the pronunciation of tone-marked words in Thai. Vietnamese learners often have difficulty memorizing the tonal transformation rules or producing the falling tone in Thai, as Vietnamese does not have tone variations conditioned by initial consonant classes as found in Thai. In addition, the tonal transformation rules in Thai can be thoroughly explained according to the triyang principle, which classifies the number of tone markers and tonal realizations based on the consonant class. The use of conceptual diagrams to summarize knowledge about Thai tonal transformations helps learners understand the material more clearly and reduce confusion. Furthermore, it facilitates review and systematic organization of knowledge, which forms the foundation for studying more complex linguistic concepts. Such methods also enable teachers to explain and connect knowledge about tonal systems more effectively.

Application of this study: This article aims to assist instructors in applying their knowledge of the Thai tonal system and tonal transformation principles to teaching Vietnamese learners. It also seeks to summarize this knowledge into conceptual diagrams that facilitate the teaching and learning processes. These diagrams are intended to facilitate learning for both teachers and learners in the study of Thai and Vietnamese tonal rules.

Conclusions: Teaching the Thai tonal system to Vietnamese students poses significant challenges due to the differences in tonal structures between Thai and Vietnamese. Although both languages are tonal, they differ in tonal features and tonal transformation rules, especially in Thai where tonal changes depend on the initial consonants. This aspect is absent in Vietnamese. Various pedagogical approaches can be used to explain Thai tonal transformation rules. For instance, the use of minimal pairs can help learners distinguish subtle tonal contrasts at a phonemic level, while network diagrams or mapping techniques can assist in organizing and reinforcing tonal knowledge. Additionally, concept mapping supports learners in summarizing and systematically reviewing Thai tonal transformation rules. Choosing an appropriate instructional approach depends on the learner group and the specific content to be conveyed, with the goal of making tonal principles clearer, easier to retain, and more applicable in real-life communication.

Book Review “Khmer Ghosts”

Patcharapan Katakool — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The Relationship Between Agricultural Technology and Entrepreneurial Society in Thung Kula Rong Hai, Northeastern Thailand, From the 1970s to 2000s

Thitiya Lao-an — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The previous studies on rural entrepreneurship issues have focused on two key aspects. First, the transformation from peasants to entrepreneurs underlined by peasants’ economic mobility and the formation of their collective political consciousness. Second, the use of agricultural technology to enhance production efficiency and its primary use in business. However, these studies tend to overlook the socio-cultural dimensions of entrepreneurial groups that have emerged as a result of economic transformation. By explaining through the roles of other elements in order to deepen the understanding of the phenomenon of rural entrepreneurship. The objectives of the study are 1) to examine the emergence and the characteristics of the entrepreneurs in Thung Kula Rong Hai, Northeastern Thailand, from the 1970s to 2000s; and 2) to examine the relationship between agricultural technology and entrepreneurial society in Thung Kula Rong Hai, Northeastern Thailand, from the 1970s to 2000s.

Methods: This study employed a historical approach and presents the findings in an analytical description format. Data were collected between April 2023 and May 2024 through in-depth interviews and focus groups with agricultural technology entrepreneurs. These entrepreneurs operate businesses providing plowing and rice-harvesting services using tractors, large tractors, and rice combine harvesters, which are the most commonly used machines. There were 22 interviewees in total, divided into 3 groups according to age as follows: 1) entrepreneurs aged 35–45 years, 5 interviewees; 2) entrepreneurs aged 45–55 years, 8 interviewees; and 3) entrepreneurs aged 55–65 years, 9 interviewees. The interviews in each group provided different information, such as the origins of entrepreneurs, group formation and networking, finding employment, competition in the rice farming employment business, engine maintenance, and beliefs. The reason for choosing Community A, Kaset Wisai District, Roi Et province since entrepreneurs were able to form groups in the first place in the Northeast and then expand their rice farming businesses to other regions of Thailand, in terms of the study time frame between the 1970s and 2000s, which was the starting point of the emergence of entrepreneurs, group formation and networking, and the emergence of relationships between technology and entrepreneurs in many dimensions.

Results: The study results found that in the 1970s, the government began to encourage villagers to grow Thung Kula Rong Hai jasmine rice instead of local rice varieties. As a result, in the 1990s, agricultural technology spread to Community A. The villagers preferred using tractors and harvesters in large numbers, leading to a change in production methods from human labor to machines, which increased efficiency, reduced costs, and shortened production times. These villagers saw that these technologies were effective for rice farming, so they started offering rice farming services using machinery, which led to the formation of entrepreneurs. Later, in the 1990s–2000s, the economic networks of these entrepreneurs expanded to the Thung Kula Rong Hai area and other regions. These economic networks were linked to other related economic networks, such as repair shops that repaired, modified, and created innovations. In addition, tractors and harvesters became the symbols of modernity, representing entrepreneurs in various aspects, and were integrated into their lives and beliefs.

Application of this study: The use of agricultural technology in the Thung Kula Rong Hai area plays an important role in the economic development of the region because it demonstrates the ability to expand a variety of related business networks. Therefore, the development of the government's rural agricultural policy should aim to develop agricultural technology entrepreneurs in a comprehensive manner, starting from entrepreneurship creation, support in terms of knowledge, technology, capital, and marketing, along with creating a business ecosystem that is interconnected as a guideline for effectively developing entrepreneur groups in the rural sector.

Conclusions: Agricultural technology plays a crucial role in driving the economy and fostering the emergence of tractor and rice harvester entrepreneurs in Community A. This business reflects that they have skills, experiences, abilities to identify opportunities, bear risks, and build networks, etc. Furthermore, the role of agricultural technology is not limited to functioning as mere production machinery; it also contributes to the creation of diverse networks, including rice farming services and vehicle repair businesses. Additionally, it is evident that entrepreneurs have integrated tractors and harvesters into their family relationship systems, while also performing rituals based on local beliefs. These rituals include worshiping the guardian spirits of the sky and the earth, as well as the spirits residing in the tractors and the harvesters, before embarking on their work.

Influence of Ancient Indian Legislation on Traditional Law in Mainland Southeast Asia: The Study of the Concept of Women

Pakdeekul Ratana, Amnuaypond Kidpromma, Adilan Usama — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Since ancient times, the Mainland Southeast Asian kingdoms have engaged in cultural interactions with India, resulting in distinctive social and cultural patterns evident in the region's traditional legal codes. This research aims to examine the concept of women in ancient Indian laws, specifically the Manava Dharmasastra and Kautilya's Arthashastra, and to study the influences of these ancient Indian laws on the legal traditions of Mainland Southeast Asia, particularly with the adaptations of the laws of the Mon, Lan Na, Lan Xang, and Siamese kingdoms regarding their views on women.

Methods: This qualitative research employs historical and documentary research methods. Primary and secondary sources, including the documents from online databases, were analyzed alongside field data. The data were analyzed using content analysis and presented in a descriptive-analytical format.

Results: Ancient Indian laws, like the Manava Dharmasastra and Kautilya's Arthashastra, had a significant influence on the laws of the kingdoms of Mainland Southeast Asia. However, these kingdoms adopted and adapted these laws selectively, merging them with indigenous traditions rooted in Buddhist principles and local beliefs as part of their cultural assimilation. It led to a distinct concept of women's roles, as demonstrated in the Mon Dhammasat and the traditional laws of Lan Na, Lan Xang, and Siam (The Three Seals Law). The legal provisions that reflect the influence and adaptation of concepts concerning women and gender roles are found in the laws on family, disputes, property, and inheritance. These are 1) family law, which required women to have guardians; 2) adultery laws, which strictly governed male-female relations to maintain social order; 3) varying views on divorce; and 4) women’s rights and responsibilities regarding inheritance law. Understanding women's roles influenced by Indian civilization leads to a deeper comprehension of gender dynamics in history, as well as perspectives on the relationship of gender roles from the past to the present.

Application of this study: This study contributes new historical insights into women's roles by analyzing the important legal documents which are ancient Indian laws and the old laws in Mainland Southeast Asia. This constitutes an essential body of knowledge for the study of history and conceptualizations of women in Thailand and related regions, as certain ideas continue to persist through cultural transmission into the present. It also serves as a valuable foundation for further research in the fields of history, gender studies, law, and cultural studies.

Conclusions: Mainland Southeast Asian kingdoms were influenced by Indian culture such as the legal concepts from the Manava Dharmasastra and Kautilya’s Arthashastra, the religious and ideological influences of Brahman-Hinduism and Buddhism, including the concepts of womanhood. Nevertheless, these traditional states adapted and merged with local cultures, resulting in their own distinctive social and cultural characteristics. In particular, they shaped social attitudes toward the roles and duties of women, where women were found to possess relatively high status and gender roles, as reflected in the ancient legal codes of these states.

From the Iberian Peninsula to the Chao Phraya River: Diplomatic Relations Between Thailand and Spain in the Early Cold War (1947–1957)

Thep Boontanondha, Penpisa Srivoranart — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: During the early Cold War, Thailand and Spain faced comparable political circumstances, leading to the renewal of the diplomatic relations that had remained largely inactive since the reign of King Rama V. This research aims to study the diplomatic relations between the two states from 1947 to 1957, during which both countries pursued a strategy of bandwagoning diplomacy to gain recognition from the superpowers of the free world and to secure aid in the fight against the threat of communism.

Methods: The research used the historical method through documentary analysis, using relevant documents to support a descriptive and analytical report presentation by utilizing primary sources from the National Archives of Thailand and the General Archive of the Administration of the Spanish Government as the main sources.

Results: After the end of the Second World War, both Thailand and Spain were under dictatorial governments, which were not recognized by the superpower nations. Therefore, both nations sought to gain support—particularly financial aid—to restore their nations. Simultaneously, communism was expanding its influence worldwide, prompting the free world—especially led by the United States (U.S.)—to recognize the strategic importance of endorsing the status of Thailand and Spain. As a result, the U.S. found it necessary to provide aid to both nations to help them resist the communist threat. In response, Thailand and Spain pursued the foreign policies that served the interests of the U.S. in exchange for various forms of assistance. To achieve that goal, both nations adopted bandwagoning diplomacy, signaling their readiness to align their policies with those of the U.S. This approach laid the foundation for their bilateral relations during the Cold War, as both nations shared the common policy of supporting the free world and resisting communism.

Application of this study: This research examined international relations during the early Cold War and it applies to the study of Cold War history in Thailand and Spain, focusing on how both nations chose to cooperate with each other within the Cold War context.

Conclusions: The relationship between Thailand and Spain during the early Cold War emerged as both nations adopted bandwagoning diplomacy, aligning with the U.S. and collaborating with free world nations. As a result, Thailand and Spain worked to reconcile their relations. The decision to establish the Spanish Embassy in Bangkok, followed by the Thai Embassy in Madrid, marked the significant step in reinforcing their diplomatic relations. Moreover, Thailand supported Spain’s bid for the United Nations membership, while Spain contributed by offering scholarships to Thai students and allowing naval cadets to study at the Spanish Naval Military Academy. Over time, their relationship continued to develop, ultimately leading them to become security partners.

Understanding Female Ordination and the Status of Bhikkhunis in Thai Society Through a Sociological Perspective

Tristan Aidan Pennell — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Since the beginning of bhikkhuni (female Buddhist nun) tradition long ago, much difficulty surrounding their existence has been recorded. At present, a lot of controversy about the status of bhikkhunis occurs, including both opponents and supporters. However, discussions are often limited to issues of gender equality, religious precepts, or legal matters. This article seeks to move beyond the existing frameworks of debate by focusing on the ‘existence’ of bhikkhunis, their characteristics, and the various factors influencing their development and perception in Thai society. It also examines the religious practices that affect the status of bhikkhunis, as well as the significance of women’s roles and positions in Thai Buddhist society.

Methods: This article is qualitative research. It consists of a comprehensive literature review and an interview with the Venerable Dhammananda, de facto leader of the Thai bhikkhuni movement. It also points out that previous studies on bhikkhunis and Thai Buddhism have often overlooked the application of sociological frameworks in their analyses. This article therefore employs Wejnert’s (2002) ‘Diffusion of Innovations’ framework to analyze the status of bhikkhunis as a new innovation within Thai society. Although bhikkhunis once existed in the past, their reemergence in contemporary Thai society represents a new concept. The use of this framework provides a clearer understanding of how this innovation is accepted within its contextual environment, as well as the characteristics of the initiators (bhikkhunis) and the dynamics of the bhikkhuni movement. The data from the literature review and interviews were analyzed based on a conceptual framework concerning factors related to the bhikkhuni movement, including legal, gender, and social problems.

Results: It was found that the status of bhikkhunis in Thai Buddhism is uncertain, changing, and even misunderstood, but the bhikkhunis are persevering and involved in their ongoing activities. Past legal issues appear to have no significant impact in the present because the Constitution provides protection for the fundamental rights of bhikkhunis. Concerning gender, the bhikkhunis do exist outside the patriarchal framework of Thai society but but they still have the freedom to engage in social initiatives as they see appropriate and are also entitled to certain rights, such as the right to vote, which male monks sometimes do not possess. The bhikkhunis are sometimes misunderstood as feminist religious activists. In fact, bhikkhunis merely follow their own dispositions and the teachings of the Dhamma. Moreover, the debates concerning religious legitimacy have no significant effect on the current status of bhikkhunis, as they have already emerged and established their presence in society. Both the literature and interview data indicate that bhikkhunis have gained recognition at the local community level from laypeople and some monks, and that they play a significant role in Buddhist traditions, such as morning alms rounds.

Application of this study: This article has advanced beyond other papers which have only examined the validity of female ordination in Thailand. It has examined the status of the bhikkhuni as women in Thai Buddhism, and considered the conflict between the others’ opinions and the role of bhikkhunis by applying the sociological framework of ‘Diffusion of Innovations’ to analyze the bhikkhunis in Thailand for the first time. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the various contexts that affect the status of bhikkhunis. Viewing bhikkhuni ordination as a social innovation within Thai society provides broader insights into its implications and meanings. Therefore, this research is suitable for those seeking a more profound understanding of the bhikkhuni movement—whether monks, religious organizations, or scholars. Future research should regard the bhikkhunis not merely as a site of social or religious conflict but as an existing social movement, whether it has supporters or not.

Conclusions: The framework revealed that surrounding factors, the characteristic of the bhikkhunis as an innovation, as well as personal characteristics all impact their status within Thai society, in both positive and negative ways. The conclusion drawn from this research is that despite controversy and debate, the bhikkhunis are not feminist religious activists, they are simply women who follow the Buddhist path and seek to claim their own space within the religion. Although these bhikkhunis may be at a disadvantage in a patriarchal social structure, they continue to play vital roles within their local communities. Instead of perceiving the bhikkhunis primarily through the lens of activism or conflict, attention should be given to their existence and the performance of their monastic duties. In spite of ongoing controversies and diverse interpretations, the bhikkhunis continue to exist and perform their duties as nuns with their own potential.

Factors Associated with the Causes of Migration among Youth Migrants in Thailand

Kaweesak Phujampa, Dusadee Ayuwat — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The transformation of economic and social structures, driven by capitalism, alongside advancements in technology and communication, and the development of infrastructure, have collectively facilitated migration across all age groups. This includes youth migrants, who are either currently enrolled in the formal education system or have recently graduated. Understanding the causes of the migration of the youth migrant group can reflect the opportunities afforded by societal shifts. Therefore, this research aims to investigate the causes of youth migration in Thailand and the factors associated with the causes of youth migration in Thailand. This study focuses on internal migration in Thailand.

Methods: Quantitative research with a cross-sectional design was utilized. The unit of analysis was the individual. The sample consisted of 1,917 youth migrants aged 15–24 years at the time of the 2023 survey. The data were derived from the microdata of the Population Migration Survey Project, collected by the National Statistical Office of Thailand between October and December 2023. Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were employed to analyze the factors associated with the causes of youth migration in Thailand. The research findings were presented with a narrative accompanied by tables.

Results: The results found that the majority of youth migrants were female, single, aged 19–24 years, and had completed upper secondary education. Most originated from the Northeast and South regions, with primary destinations being urban areas in the Northeast, Central, and South regions. Nearly half of this group had resided in their destination areas for less than one year. Regarding the causes of youth migration in Thailand, education was the primary reason for migration, accounting for 54%, followed by family reunification. Specifically, older youth migrants (19–24 years), both male and female, who were single, originated from the Northeast and South, and lived in urban areas, primarily migrated for education. In contrast, younger youth migrants (15–18 years) predominantly migrated to follow their families. Additionally, married or previously married youth migrants with diplomas or higher education primarily migrated for economic reasons. A higher proportion of economic migration was observed among youth migrants who had resided in their destinations for less than one year compared to those who had stayed for more than one year.

Application of this study: This study contributes to the development of the body of knowledge on the causes of youth migration. The findings are valuable for policymakers in developing appropriate policies and measures to support youth migrants appropriately, for instance, developing the welfare systems for young migrants or adjusting the economic structure and development to align with the evolving trends of this age group, in order to enable their full potential.

Conclusions: This study employed a quantitative research approach using a cross-sectional design, drawing upon the data from the 2023 Migration Survey conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand. The sample consisted of 1,917 adolescent migrants aged 15–24 years. The findings revealed that the majority of adolescent migrants were female, single, aged between 19 and 24, and migrated primarily for educational purposes, followed by family-related reasons. The younger adolescents tended to migrate to follow their families, while older and more highly educated individuals migrated mainly for economic reasons. The study indicated that adolescent migration is associated with age group, marital status, educational level, and duration of residence at the destination. These findings can serve as a foundation for formulating policies and measures to better support adolescent migrants in alignment with the current economic and social contexts.

Revisiting Queer Shame in Boys Love/Y Novels and Queer Literary Culture in Thailand

Natthanai Prasannam — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Following the legalization of same-sex marriage effective in 2025, Boys Love (BL)/Yaoi (Y), a globally recognized queer media, underscores its sociopolitical roles. The celebration of queer visibility and queer pride has gradually become the core value of the genre, influenced by LGBTQ political movements in the Euro-American context. The progressive-oriented approach is, however, challenged by the ideas of “Feeling Backward” proposed by Heather Love (2007). This study explores queer shame within the setting of Thai BL before and after its Queer Turn in 2020. The research aims to analyze queer shame in a selected case study, theneoclassic’s Phi Ai Num Mak or Ai, You Are So Fluffy (first published in 2021), before expanding to the queer literary culture in Thailand, which is potentially held in the cycle of shame.

Methods: This study is categorized as qualitative research. The data selection relies on the exemplary case study method. The selected novel is explored by the textual analysis method and is situated within the shared context of related works. The case study is also employed as a tool for understanding broader phenomena: the queer literary culture in Thailand.

Results: The development of Thai BL works is typically articulated in a progressive framework or transitioning from repression to the celebration of social movements. The analysis of queer shame in Ai, You Are So Fluffy illustrates how the novel challenges the conventions (ōdō) of BL originating from Japanese BL. The text redefines the rigid seme/uke formula and resonates with an emerging trend of queered character design in BL works of post-2020. The novel connotes that despite the sociopolitical movements of queers in Thailand, there are still different types of queer shame perpetuated within the queer communities. Nevertheless, queer shame is placed as a barrier to overcome through the framework of popular romance. Situating Ai, You Are So Fluffy as a bridge, queer shame in queer literary culture is realized in two directions: 1) the linkage between the development of Thai BL and the Thai literary tradition that presents queer-themed narratives, authored by both female and non-female writers since the late 1970s, and 2) the recovery of the marginalized history of female fans or consumers of BL media, along with the activities they engaged in since the period when BL content faced public condemnation, prior to the state’s incorporation of BL into soft-power policy in the early 2020s.

Application of this study: The findings of the research have led to further explorations of Thai BL/Y across both the literary and media industries. In addition, it addresses the societal role of Thai BL through newly proposed critical views, as the concept of queer shame has not yet received significant attention in Thai scholarship.

Conclusions: The study of queer shame in Thai BL novels provides an alternative perspective on the genre’s tradition, coinciding with the proliferation of digital media, transnational fan culture, and social activism. Rather than commemorating queer pride, queer shame can be leveraged as a significant aspect of certain queer communities. Some key notions from the research findings include 1) non-female BL writers recognize queer shame and generate political meaning from that very shame; 2) revisiting the BL genre alongside queer literary culture in Thailand revives queer spirits of the genre; and 3) queer shame unfolds the interplay among literary convention, screen adaptation, star persona, and fan culture within the Thai BL industry.

A Study of Storytelling in Yuri Series as a Process of Commodification: A Case Study of ‘The Secret of Us’

Ratchaneekorn Sae-Wang — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: “The Secret of Us” is the first Yuri series produced under Channel 3 that achieved remarkable success—not only in terms of awards and popularity, but also in its potential for business expansion, which led to what became known as the “The Secret of Us Phenomenon.” Central to this phenomenon is the natural chemistry of “LingOrm, marked by their striking “demonic chemistry.” However, performance alone is not sufficient to sustain ongoing market value. Narrative plays a crucial role in reinforcing this sense of “naturalness” and further enhancing the image of their “demonic chemistry.” Therefore, this research aimed to examine narratives as part of the commodification process, to reveal how storytelling and meaning-making around “LingOrm” contributed to the emergence of the “The Secret of Us” phenomenon.

Methods: This research is a qualitative study that focuses on the commodification process within the series “The Secret of Us”. It employs online ethnographic observation (netnography) and content analysis to decode and interpret the narrative patterns that generate emotional engagement, drawing on the theoretical frameworks of Eva Illouz and Henry Jenkins.

Results: The study found that the storytelling around LingOrm evolved across three distinct phases: 1) Before the series aired, storytelling was strategically planned as part of a marketing approach that emphasized narrative and the actors’ chemistry—an essential convention of Yuri series. This was tested through a highly successful fan meeting, indicating the strength of both the narrative and the actors’ chemistry. 2) During the airing of the series, storytelling aimed to reinforce both the narrative and the couple’s chemistry. Three key themes emerged during this period consist of their first meeting, the difference between real life and series roles, and their status as a popular on-screen couple. 3) After the series aired, the storytelling of LingOrm continued through fan meetings, product endorsements, and trending hashtags on social media. In particular, narratives that take place outside their official roles (off camera) often depict themes of fate and the ‘red thread’ destiny, highlighting LingOrm’s personas characterized by mutual respect, care, and gentleness, as well as the commodification of their image as a ‘shipped’ couple, alongside the strategic cultivation and commodification of their ‘koojin’ (fan-imagined romantic pairing) image.”

Application of this study: The research findings highlight the significance of female-driven narration and the mechanisms through which Yuri series are commodified, while also illustrating the distinctive creative practices that characterize the production of Yuri content.

Conclusions: The studies on narrative structures in Yuri series reveal a mode of storytelling that deliberately fosters affective engagement (emotional marketing) among viewers and fan communities, thereby sustaining continuous participation. This aligns with the theoretical perspectives of Illouz and Jenkins. Moreover, the case of ‘The Secret of Us’ (Jai Son Ruk) demonstrates three distinctive mechanisms that drive its narrative: female-driven narration, female-led normalization processes, and sisterhood-based romance. These mechanisms constitute a unique narrative apparatus that not only reflects women’s narrative agency but also opens opportunities for direct communication with female audiences—even within entertainment sectors and in products grounded in notions of masculinity. Nevertheless, commercial development should be accompanied by efforts to broaden narratives that represent the lived experiences of women-loving-women beyond romantic tropes. Such expansion is necessary to avoid reducing lesbian identities or gender diversity to mere commodities, and to ensure that the cultural power of Yuri continues to progress in tandem with social responsibility in the context of the entertainment industry.

The Relationship between Linguistic Strategies and the Ideology of “Being a New Mother” on the Facebook Page “Khun Mae Luk On”

Patamaporn Mingcharoenwong, Wipada Rattanadilok Na Phuket — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Modern women take on numerous roles comparable to those of men, including pursuing education and establishing careers in their chosen fields. However, one distinct role that sets them apart is motherhood, which encompasses conceiving, giving birth, and raising children. This responsibility remains a significant source of women’s value within both the family and society. This research aimed to examine the relationship between linguistic strategies and the ideology of “being a new mother” as shown on the Facebook page “Khun Mae Luk On”.

Methods: This research is a linguistic study employing a qualitative research method. Data were collected from the Facebook page “Khun Mae Luk On” between January 1 and December 31, 2023, totaling 124 posts. The data were analyzed using the critical discourse analysis (CDA) framework.

Results: The findings revealed 11 linguistic strategies used in the discourse: 1) using pronouns, 2) modality 3) synonyms, 4) referencing, 5) metaphor, 6) presupposition, 7) rhetorical questions, 8) contrastive or opposing sentence structures, 9) conditional sentences, 10) repeating pattern, and 11) imagery. These linguistic strategies conveyed three key ideological notions of being a new mother: 1) new mothers had to be prepared to endure exhaustion and challenges, 2) new mothers had to be capable of both childcare and household management, and 3) new mothers relied on love and support from their children and husbands. The processes and methods through which the text is produced and disseminated contribute to the transmission and reinforcement of ideas surrounding motherhood. These ideas become ingrained in societal beliefs and perceptions, forming an ideology that dictates, dominates, and perpetuates gender inequality. As a result, women are turned into social tools used to uphold and support the ideal of complete masculinity. Furthermore, the use of linguistic strategies on the Facebook page “Khun Mae Luk On” also reveals underlying business reasons.

Application of this study: Studying the relationship between linguistic strategies and ideology helped to understand the thought systems of people in the society. This, in turn, exposed how ideas, beliefs, and values were socially constructed and perpetuated, serving as a foundation for further critical discourse analysis.

Conclusions: These ideological notions were constructed, disseminated, and reinforced, shaping the societal expectation that women were responsible for childcare and household duties. These ideas have been reproduced within a patriarchal society, embedding a dominant ideology within the text, suggesting that, regardless of circumstances, women still require protection and care from men.

Humor Strategies of Tutors in Brand's Summer Camp

Yamonpat Pattarakup — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The Brand’s Summer Camp tutoring program is a widely popular academic revision show that features an extensive and diverse use of humor. Renowned tutors are invited to deliver lectures, attracting significant attention from students and home viewers alike. From the preliminary observations, humor is frequently employed in the program through a variety of strategies. An interest arose in examining the strategies used to convey humor in the program, which are categorized into linguistic strategies employed to communicate humor and content-construction strategies that generate humorous effects. This research article aims to analyze the humor strategies employed by the tutors in the Brand’s Summer Camp program, focusing on both linguistic techniques and content-based strategies.

Methods: In this qualitative research, videos with over 8,000 views that feature humor within the first 15 minutes were selected. The analysis involved a detailed transcription of humorous segments and was guided by previous studies on humor in the Thai language. A humorous utterance was identified based on the presence of audience laughter following its delivery. In cases where audience reactions were unclear, subjective judgment and verification by three native Thai speakers were used to determine whether an utterance was humorous.

Results: The findings reveal that the humor strategies employed by tutoring instructors can be categorized into two main types: linguistic strategies and content-based strategies. The linguistic strategies are further divided into two subcategories: primary strategies and supplementary strategies. The primary strategies include 1) the use of voice or tone which is louder or softer than usual, vocal modulation to match emotions and situations, and deliberately unclear or unnatural articulation; 2) employing onomatopoeia; 3) using unconventional metaphors; 4) the use of hyperbole; 5) asking rhetorical questions; 6) preemptively interrupting or anticipating the audience’s responses for comic effect; 7) intentionally misusing English grammar; 8) singing deliberately to generate humor; 9) code-switching for comedic purposes; and 10) using verbal irony to create humor. The supplementary strategies consist of using humorous gestures, incorporating comical teaching materials and props, and utilizing memorable mnemonic formulas that provoke laughter. Meanwhile, the content-based strategies include shifting the topic unexpectedly, creating content that defies expectations, and delivering surprising punchlines or twists.

Application of this study: 1) The findings contribute to the study of humor in the Thai language and offer a framework for analyzing humor in other types of discourse. 2) The knowledge obtained may serve as a guideline for educational personnel in effectively developing the use of humor in the classroom. This, in turn, can enhance student engagement, reduce stress within the learning environment, and foster a more dynamic and enthusiastic teaching and learning process, ultimately contributing to the overall improvement of educational quality.

Conclusions: This study proposes a conceptual framework for classifying humor strategies used by tutorial teachers into three main categories: linguistic strategies, supplementary strategies, and content creation strategies. These categories are consistent with the three major theories of humor: superiority theory, incongruity theory, and relief theory. The analysis reveals that the most frequently used strategies include topic shifting and the use of verbal irony. Each tutorial teacher demonstrates a unique style of humor. While most instances of humor successfully generate amusement in the classroom, some cases fail to achieve the intended effect due to inappropriate content or students’ lack of background knowledge about the context being discussed. A limitation of this study is its reliance on data from only four participants. Therefore, future research should consider other factors, such as the teacher’s gender or cultural context, which may influence the perception and understanding of humor in the classroom.

“Kidding” the Haunting Memory Story: Reflecting on the Concept of Pain That “Is Not Kidding”

Cholticha Homfung — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Urban societies are undergoing rapid transformation, both materially and mentally, giving rise to a multitude of new forms of storytelling. A noticeable phenomenon in contemporary Thai society has been bullying, particularly through communication, where the phrase “just kidding” often served as a trigger for interpersonal conflict. Although seemingly playful, such expressions frequently caused emotional discomfort for the target. The researcher is interested in exploring the personal narratives of being “kidded” or teased within the Thai context. It was part of the larger research project entitled “Kidding Story Not a Kidding”: Study Based on Applied Folklore with the Development of Process Framework for Enhancing Awareness of Creative Communication and Empathy in the Thai Social Context. Specifically, this research article aimed to 1) classify the kidding narratives based on the tale type of folktales, 2) examine the conceptual themes reflected from these narratives, and 3) study the functions of the phrase “just kidding.”

Methods: This study employed a qualitative research approach. The data were collected through open-ended questionnaires administered to 349 students from the Faculty of Education, Silpakorn University, in the academic year 2023. The data were then analyzed using content analysis.

Results: The results showed that a total of 13 tale types of kidding stories were identified, as follows: A: kidding stories about physical appearance, B: kidding stories about clothing and makeup, C: kidding stories about physical illness or bodily disabilities, D: kidding stories involving physical harm, E: kidding stories using language that references sex, F: kidding stories that create shocking or disappointing situations, G: kidding stories related to social status, H: kidding stories about intelligence, I: kidding stories about love, J: kidding stories about gender identity, K: kidding stories using sarcastic compliments, L: kidding stories in serious situations, and M: kidding stories used to reconcile or make amends.They also showed the conceptual themes reflected in the narratives consisted of 1) kidding and the person who kids, 2) kidding and the age of kidding, 3) kidding and reality, 4) kidding and the atmosphere of kidding. The functions of the phrase “just kidding” also included 1) a way to excuse or justify one’s words or actions, 2) a form of negative entertainment, 3) a means to mask true feelings or avoid losing face, 4) a tool to express underlying resentment toward the listener, and 5) a device used in efforts to reconcile or apologize.

Application of this study: The analysis of the narrative types, concepts, and functions of the phrase “just kidding” revealed how such expressions could lead to bullying, quarrels, or various forms of loss. It highlighted that the root problem was a lack of empathy and communicative awareness in society. The findings of the study therefore accurately reflect the core of the problem, providing insights that can be applied to the development of innovations aimed at fostering empathy and promoting communication awareness. Moreover, the research results can be further utilized to formulate school or organizational policies to reduce bullying.

Conclusions: The phrase “just kidding,” as spoken by the teaser, was often not received as a joke by the one targeted. While the speaker might have acted unconsciously, the listener often internalized the experience as a painful memory. The words “just kidding” had the potential to inflict deep emotional wounds, erode self-confidence, and even contribute to long-term psychological trauma. Ordinary individuals could be left feeling isolated or fearful of social interaction. This study underscored the urgent need for society to reconsider the careless use of “just kidding” as the excuse of carelessness in interpersonal communication. These findings provide a basis for developing tools that enhance interpersonal understanding and promote mindful communication. In addition, they can be applied to the formulation of policies in schools and educational institutions to prevent bullying and to create safer and more inclusive environments.

The Emergence of Male and Female Personal Pronouns in the Thai Language: A Historical Linguistics Study

Suchada Jiaphong — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: A personal pronoun is a word that serves a grammatical function; when it stands alone, it conveys meaning or features related to person. Regarding gender, personal pronouns originally did not have grammatical gender distinctions. However, over time, they have developed differentiation between masculine and feminine forms. This research aims to study the forms of masculine and feminine personal pronouns in the Thai language from the Sukhothai period to the present, as well as to examine the processes involved in the formation of gender-specific personal pronouns in Thai.

Methods: This study adopts a historical linguistic approach. The data were collected from secondary sources, focusing on the personal pronouns found in the documents from five historical periods: 1) the Sukhothai period, 2) the Ayutthaya and Thonburi periods, 3) the early Rattanakosin period (from the reigns of King Rama I to King Rama III), 4) the mid Rattanakosin period (from the reigns of King Rama IV to King Rama VII), and 5) the late Rattanakosin period (from the reign of King Rama VIII to the present).

Results: The research found that the Thai language has both masculine and feminine forms of personal pronouns. These include the four male first-person pronouns “phom” “kra-phom” “klao-phom” and “klao-kra-phom”, and the three female first-person pronouns “di-chan”, “dian”, and “e-chan”. The male personal pronoun “phom” first appeared during the reign of King Rama IV, arising through grammaticalization—a transformation from the noun “phom”(meaning “hair”) into a first-person male pronoun. To increase politeness in addressing interlocutors of higher social status, the prefix “kra” was added, by insertion of segments yielding “kra-”. Similarly, the forms “klao-phom” and “klao-kra-phom” are compound words formed by combining “klao” (royal head) with “phom” and “kra-phom”, respectively. These highly respectful forms are exclusively used when speaking to individuals of significantly higher social rank. The female personal pronoun “di-chan”, appeared in use during the Rattanakosin period from the reign of King Rama I to King Rama VII, functioned as a gender-neutral first-person pronoun. However, through semantic change, it came to be used primarily as a female personal pronoun from the reign of King Rama VIII onwards. The word “dian”, which also appeared during the reign of King Rama IV, denotes a female first-person pronoun. It is a result of phonetic decay from “di-chan”, wherein vowel merging transformed “i” + “a” into the diphthong “ia”. The form “e-chan” was derived through compounding, by combining the feminine prefix “e” with “chan”, thus creating a female-specific first-person pronoun. Three primary linguistic processes underlying the emergence of gender-specific personal pronouns in Thai were identified: 1) semantic shift, as in the case of “di-chan”, which transitioned from a gender-neutral to a female-specific usage in the reign of King Rama IV; 2) grammaticalization, wherein the noun “phom” was reanalyzed as a male first-person pronoun and modified with the prefix “kra” for increased politeness, resulting in “kra-phom”; and 3) compounding, whereby the previously gender-neutral pronoun “chan” was combined with the feminine prefix “e” to form the female pronoun “e-chan” and the compounding of a noun “klao” with a grammaticalized element to form a pronoun “phom”, as in “klao” evolving into “klao-phom” and “klao-kra-phom” to be male pronouns.

Application of this study: The findings of this research can serve as guidelines for writing Thai grammar textbooks, particularly in the classification of word types in the Thai language. Furthermore, the results can be used to explore linguistic development and trends of language change within the context of Thai society.

Conclusions: This research adopts a historical linguistic approach, collecting the data from the documents across different historical periods. The findings reveal that Thai possesses four masculine and three feminine personal pronouns, which emerged through three primary linguistic processes: semantic change, grammaticalization, and compounding. The study identified two major factors contributing to the emergence of gender-differentiated personal pronouns in Thai: 1) grammatical influence from western languages, which exhibit grammatical gender, and 2) sociocultural concepts, emphasizing gender distinction between men and women. The results of this research can be applied to the development of Thai grammar textbooks and to further studies on the evolution and linguistic change of the Thai language.

The Politics of Fear: Russophobia and The Construction of Russia as the Other in Western Media Discourse

Parit Aroonoast — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Russophobia is not merely a general negative sentiment. It has also been identified as a discursive tool employed by certain factions in contemporary western media, playing a crucial role in shaping the image of Russia amid the ongoing political conflict between Russia and the West. This research has three main objectives: to study 1) discourse practices in the production, distribution, and consumption of texts on Russophobia in western media; 2) anti-Russian discourse through linguistic strategies used; and 3) socio-cultural practice influencing the construction of Russophobia discourse in western media.

Methods: This research is classified as qualitative research, using Norman Fairclough’s critical discourse analysis (CDA) as the analytical framework. This concept comprises three main dimensions: text, discourse practice, and socio-cultural practice. In addition, texts were examined using diverse linguistic strategies. The data were gathered from Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) Russian language broadcasts from 2020 to 2024, representing a major western media outlet that holds significant influence over the Russian-speaking audience.

Results: RFE/RL is a media organization that publishes news and analysis in 27 languages, covering 23 countries across Eastern Europe, Central Asia, the Caucasus, and the Middle East. Its Russian-language content is broadcast under the name ‘Radio Svoboda (Radio Liberty)’. The organization distributes content through the website https://www.svoboda.org, which serves as an alternative media platform to local government-controlled outlets. Its primary target audience includes Russian citizens in Russia and Russian-speaking listeners abroad. Five main Russophobia discourses were identified in RFE/RL content: 1) as Russian government propaganda; 2) as a Russian state device for political gain and suppressing dissent; 3) as a motive by western attempts to weaken or destroy Russia; 4) as a western-created phenomenon; and 5) as a discourse that is viewed as non-existent from the perspective of foreign observers. Diverse strategies were used to create these discourses, such as inventing specific vocabulary, speech acts, presuppositions, figurative language, metaphors, claims, and denials. Socio-cultural practices influencing Russophobia discourse construction include 1) the historical roots of Russophobia in relation to the West; 2) the Russian government and its policies against Russophobia; and 3) the western stance on the phenomenon of Russophobia in international politics.

Application of this study: The findings are significant both academically and for public policy, particularly in analyzing the role of the media in the construction of political discourse. This helps international political analysts understand the mechanisms and significance of media in shaping the image and conceptual framing of a given country. It is also beneficial for crisis communication management and can serve as a model for analyzing the discourse of other forms of ‘phobia,’ such as Islamophobia and Sinophobia.

Conclusions: Russophobia reflects the negative images and perceptions directed toward Russia, embedding discourses produced and circulated by western media for political purposes, such as RFE/RL. These media outlets play a crucial role in shaping Russia’s image for global audiences as well as specific target groups. Through the analytical lens of CDA, the mechanisms of constructing in-groups and out-groups become evident, reinforcing the targeted country’s image with clarity. This approach also reveals the complex interplay between language, media, and power within geopolitical contexts.

Concepts of Transition in Elephant Soothing Poems and the Royal Ceremony of Elephant Consecration

Suriya Phimpha, Tossaphon Sripum — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Elephant soothing poems are ritual literature recited during sacrificial rites in elephant ceremonies or royal rituals concerning elephants, dating back to the Ayutthaya period. In the Rattanakosin era, evidence shows that the elephant soothing poems were key texts used in the Royal Consecration Elephant Ceremony, which reflects the transition in status of a significant elephant from a wild elephant to a royal elephant through symbolic objects and symbolic behaviors. The content of the elephant soothing poems align with the procedures and details of the royal ceremony, yet there is still a lack of analysis connecting the literary text to the ritual. This research article, therefore, aims to study the concepts of transition in the content of the elephant soothing poems in order to identify key factors in the creation of literature that is related to the components and stages of the ritual.

Methods: This study is documentary research employing a descriptive analytical approach. The researcher examined a total of 36 poems, including both ‘Kham Chan Kloam Chang’ and ‘Karp Khap Mai Kloam Chang’, spanning from the Ayutthaya period to the reign of King Rama IX. The primary focus was to analyze the concepts of transition within these poems and explore their relationship with the concepts of transition found in the royal ritual known as the Royal Ceremony of Elephant Consecration.

Results: The elements of the elephant soothing poems demonstrate the concept of transition in two dimensions, both of which align with the concept of transition in the Royal Elephant Consecration Ceremony: spatial transition and social status transition. In the spatial dimension, the poems depict transition through contrasting descriptions of movement from old spaces to new ones, as well as through the narration of the route that leads the elephant to the site of the royal ceremony. This concept of spatial transition has undergone dynamic evolution in response to the shifting context of the modern nation-state, with its most notable transformation occurring during the reign of King Rama IX. In the social dimension, transition is expressed through content illustrating the elephant’s separation from its forest-dwelling family, descriptions of its ornaments and the Royal Elephant Stable, the process of teaching the elephant to abandon its untamed nature and adopt the customs of royal officials, and the royal name granted by the King. Moreover, the components of the elephant soothing poems are closely linked to ritual symbols and remain dynamic, reflecting changes in royal ceremonies, societal and cultural contexts, and the perspectives of the poets.

Application of this study: The results of this study are useful for understanding the relationship between the creation of literary texts and rituals. Furthermore, it provides a guideline for studying literature as the ritual texts for the transition rites in other ceremonies.

Conclusions: The elephant soothing poems reflect the concepts of transition involved in the transformation of a wild elephant into a royal elephant, encompassing both spatial and social status transitions. These two dimensions of transition are the significant factors that influenced the creation of the poems. Furthermore, studying these poems and examining the ritual data reveal the dynamic relationship between literature and ritual, a relationship that evolves in accordance with the social and cultural contexts of each era.

From “Cpãp’ Kram” to “Modern Cpãp’ Kram”: Dynamic of a Newly Discovered Khmer Didactic Literature in Surin Province, Thailand

Direk Hongthong — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The Khmer didactic literature entitled “Cpãp’ Kram” (ច្បាប់ក្រម), composed between the 15^th and 17^th centuries, has long been used as a fundamental textbook for Buddhist novices in Khmer communities, both inside and outside Cambodia. Due to its central role, the original text has been widely duplicated, and newer works related to it—at least in title— have been composed. One example is “Modern Cpãp’ Kram” (ฉบับกร̎มสมัยมัย) found in Surin province, Thailand. Despite these connections, the newer texts exhibit distinctive characteristics, particularly in their content. Thus, this research article aims to study the dynamics of Modern Cpãp’ Kram in comparison with Cpãp’ Kram published by the Buddhist Institute of Cambodia.

Methods: This qualitative research was conducted through close reading method by comparing the two earlier-mentioned pieces of Khmer didactic literature in 4 main aspects: 1) prosody, 2) teacher, text, student, and learning method, 3) teaching technique, and 4) didactic content.

Results: The study reveals the distinctive dynamic in 4 main aspects. 1) Through prosodic aspect, there is a shift from a single prosody, Pad Kãkagati, in Cpãp’ Kram to a compound prosody, Pad Kãkagati and Pad Bãky Puon, in Modern Cpãp’ Kram. 2) Through the aspects of teacher, text, student, and learning method, Modern Cpãp’ Kram uses a Northern Khmer word to clearly disclose the poet’s gender. The text retains its original title, Cpãp’ Kram, while adding the Samai Mai (Modern) to indicate temporal distinction. The intended learners have changed from Buddhist novices to women, and the learning methods have been reduced from listening and self-studying to listening only, corresponding to the new target audience. 3) Through the aspect of teaching technique, in Modern Cpãp’ Kram, the techniques of instruction are still emphasized more than techniques of prohibition, with an increased ratio between the two. Several new words are used to state prohibition. Furthermore, the technique of commanding is absent, but the technique of suggestion has been introduced. 4) Through the aspect of didactic content, the ending component has been supplemented in the new text, and the overall content has been largely newly composed to teach the new target audience. These dynamic aspects emerge due to two main factors: 1) internal factors, including Khmer literary culture, Buddhism in the local context, Northern Khmer dialect, and some perspectives of the new text’s poet; and 2) external factors, namely the influence of didactic content in Thai culture.

Application of this study: This research presents new results on the dynamics of Khmer didactic literature to academic fields. These come from paying more attention to the new area for conducting field research: the area of Northern Khmer speakers outside Cambodia. Studying this area offers new chances for discovering new data, leading to expanding former academic perspectives. This method could also be applied to the study of local literature in other areas, or other literary pieces found outside their countries of origin, to deliver academic contributions and to raise more understandability towards these cultural owners.

Conclusions: The comparison between Cpãp’ Kram and Modern Cpãp’ Kram reveals the dynamics of this new text in 4 main aspects: 1) prosody, 2) teacher, text, student, and learning method, 3) teaching technique, and 4) didactic content. These aspects are influenced by both internal and external factors, which stimulated the composition of the new didactic text in a context distant in time and space from that of the original.

Thai-Khmer Textile: Wisdom Products to Create Cultural Values and Enhance Commercial Value

Kitisa Wongkum, Sastra Laoakka — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Thai–Khmer textiles are beautiful and distinctive products of local wisdom, reflecting a unique cultural identity through traditional weaving techniques and pattern creation. The wisdom has been passed down through generations for a long time. To preserve, promote, and generate awareness of these textiles, while enhancing their commercial potential, this research aimed to study their historical background and cultural significance, create cultural value, and explore ways to increase the commercial value of Thai–Khmer textiles.

Methods: This qualitative research collected data using purposive sampling. The participants included community and local wisdom leaders, as well as members of weaving groups, totaling 75 people. The data were gathered from the areas where the Thai-Khmer hand-woven cloth production has been passed down through generations, continuing for 50–80 years. Five areas were included: Ban Sanuan Nok, Huai Rat district, Buriram province; Ban Bu, Krasang district, Buriram province; Ban Ta Long, Satuek district, Buriram province; Ban Sawai, Mueang district, Surin province; and Ban Muang Luang, Huai Thap Than district, Sisaket province. The data were collected through in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. They were analyzed content-wise, categorized, compared, analyzed, and presented descriptively by using the concept of culture as meaning, structural functionalism, and semiotics theory to study the background, potential, cultural values, and the added value of Thai–Khmer textile.

Results: It was found that Thai–Khmer textiles are a beautiful, distinctive, and unique textiles that can identify the ethnic groups. They can be divided into many types, including traditional pattern textiles and contemporary pattern textiles, featuring animals, plants, tools and equipment, nature, and beliefs. In terms of cultural value, these textiles reflect both potential and identity, expressed through the meticulous production process of experienced weavers. Their knowledge and skills are passed down through generations, typically from mother to child within families and ethnic groups. Woven textiles are often used as symbolic expressions in each activity, and are sometimes framed to decorate spaces, becoming sources of cultural learning. The commercial value was increased by transforming the textile into a prototype bag, while adding more cultural value by using the wisdom of embroidering the ancient pattern and 8-petal lotus pattern. Integrating lifestyles, beliefs, and faith together creates a balance between intangible and tangible values of Thai–Khmer textile.

Application of this study: Weaving plays an integral role in the lives of Thai–Khmer communities, fostering the formation of weaving groups or other social groups. Furthermore, woven textiles serve as valuable cultural products. Studying the potential, cultural significance, and commercial enhancement of Thai–Khmer textiles—such as their transformation into prototype bags—can be beneficial to social and semiotic studies. This approach also supports the sustainable use of local wisdom products, providing opportunities for community income generation.

Conclusions: Thai–Khmer textiles are outstanding products of wisdom, crafted through a meticulous production process by skilled weavers proficient in creating textiles of various patterns. Each textile and its patterns can convey symbolic meanings, telling the story of the cloth and reflecting the pride and knowledge inherited across generations. Moreover, these textiles can be value-added to create income for the community.

The Romance of the Three Kingdoms on Panel Painting From the Old Sermon Hall at Wat Nak Prok

Tapakorn Klinhom — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The Romance of the Three Kingdoms on the panel painting in the old sermon hall at Wat Nak Prok is a Chinese art in a Thai temple, in Bangkok, that has been forgotten by both the public and private sectors. This painting is known in small circles and lacks study and analysis in the context of form, meaning, and determining age. This research aimed to study and analyze the content found on the panel painting to determine the age of the panel painting in the old sermon hall at Wat Nak Prok.

Methods: This was qualitative research with an emphasis on analytical study and art historical research methodology. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources. Primary evidence was gathered through field surveys, including photographing and examining the mural paintings and architectural features of the sermon hall. Secondary evidence included relevant documents. The collected data were analyzed by interpreting the paintings and comparing them with artworks in other temples according to the principles of iconography. Additionally, the murals were compared with The Romance of the Three Kingdoms to address the research objectives. The results were then summarized and presented.

Results: The results revealed that The Romance of the Three Kingdoms were tempera paintings on wooden panels, created by Chinese artists during the reign of His Majesty King Nang Klao (King Rama III), dating no earlier than 1847. There are 11 episodes of the paintings of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms, namely: the plan to burn Xīnyě; Zhāng Fēi breaks through enemies; a fight between Zhūgě Liàng and Mùlù Dàwáng; the battle of Hulao Pass; the battle of Red Cliffs panel discussion; Liú Bèi took Sūn Fūrén and fled back to Jingzhou; The battle of Bómǎ; Cáo Cāo was granted an audience with Emperor Xian of Han; the mansion of Liú Bèi and Sūn Fūrén; The oath-taking ceremony performed by Cáo Cāo and the seventeen city lords; and the battle of Chángbǎn.

Application of this study: The results can help integrate the knowledge of Thai Buddhist decorations with Chinese art in the style of the royal style of His Majesty King Nang Klao (King Rama III). This also helps prevent the panel paintings on the sermon hall from disappearing and provides data for scholars and those interested in studying Chinese Studies in Thailand.

Conclusions: The Romance of the Three Kingdoms as decoration in Thai Buddhist sites in Bangkok was very popular during the reign of His Majesty King Nang Klao (King Rama III), found in six sites. The Romance of the Three Kingdoms as decoration in Thai Buddhist sites also reflects the understanding of the content of the literature of Thai people in the past, reflecting the popularity of The Romance of the Three Kingdoms through artworks in Thai society well.

The Impacts of Historic District Revitalization in the Transition Toward Creative Districts: A Case Study of Song Wat, Bangkok

Siwaporn Klinmalai — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Song Wat, located in Bangkok’s Samphanthawong district, has played a crucial role in Thailand’s commercial history since the reign of King Rama V. This has been reflected through mixed-use residential–commercial buildings and warehouses, benefiting from its riverside position on the Chao Phraya and nearby cargo piers, while linking to the wider region via Hua Lamphong Railway Station. Subsequently, with the increasing importance of land transportation, traffic congestion became a significant issue. In addition, the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) introduced regulations limiting the use of heavy trucks in conservation areas to reduce pollution. This affected the local economy of Song Wat. Many long-standing businesses relocated, leaving behind vacant properties and an increasingly aging population. Despite this decline, wholesale activities, particularly those linked to Sampeng Market, continued to sustain the area’s commercial identity. To address these challenges, BMA adopted the Creative Economy policy, aimed at revitalizing historic districts, including Song Wat. This initiative focused on redeveloping deteriorated urban spaces and leveraging connectivity through rail networks. The policy has encouraged new generations of entrepreneurs, including the descendants of local families to re-engage with the area. Consequently, new businesses emerged, and the Song Wat district became well known, attracting tourists and benefiting the local economy. However, there were also negative impacts, including limited green space, along with those on traditional community ways of life and workers’ quality of life. This article aims to examine the impacts of creative economy–driven revitalization in Song Wat and to propose guidelines for the physical design and spatial management of the Song Wat district.

Methods: This study employed a qualitative research approach by collecting physical data of the area to understand the spatial issues that have emerged following its development into a creative district. The findings were then incorporated into participatory workshop activities, through which initial conceptual solutions were proposed for addressing these issues—both in terms of improving physical infrastructure and enhancing digital systems.

Results: The findings revealed that Song Wat has not yet achieved the conditions of a fully developed creative district. Key elements remain absent, such as permanent creative workspaces, a reliable internet network, financial incentive mechanisms between landlords and creative workers, and systems for knowledge transfer and data collection for further development. The continued growth of Song Wat as a creative district driven by tourism has generated positive economic impacts for the area. The increase in employment has led to higher population density in the area, which in turn affects the availability and capacity of public spaces that support residents’ quality of life. Therefore, this study proposes physical design strategies to enhance quality of life: 1) The adaptive street furniture attached to building facades or located in alleyways could create flexible shared spaces, enhancing walkability and accommodating overlapping user needs. 2) An online platform could facilitate data sharing among diverse users, linking onsite and digital activities to reduce pedestrian congestion. This could enhance commercial information for local businesses while also providing greater convenience for tourists. 3) The vacant or underutilized areas should be converted into usable public spaces for relaxation, providing benefits for both workers and tourists while improving the quality of life for both residents and tourists in the Song Wat area.

Application of this study: The results of this study can be applied as an initial conceptual framework for physical design and spatial management, serving as a foundation for proposing future district improvement projects. Stakeholders from both the public and private sectors may further discuss and build upon these recommendations for continued development.

Conclusions: The development of creative districts generates positive economic and social benefits for the area. However, it may also negatively affect residents’ quality of life and the ease of shared space usage between visitors and the local community. Therefore, creative district design should take into account the key components of district development and incorporate long-term spatial management planning. Stakeholders in the area should recognize these considerations in order to establish sustainable district management strategies moving forward.

A Comparative Study of Thai and Italian Historic Stone Statues: A Case Study of Khao Mo at Wat Prayurawongsawat and the Apennine Colossus

Pattamon Selanon — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: This study analyzes and compares the cultural significance of historic stone sculptures from Thailand and Italy: Khao Mo at Wat Prayurawongsawat in Bangkok and the Colossus of the Apennines in Italy. These monumental works are not merely landscape ornaments but serve as artistic, religious, and cultural symbols that embody profound narratives of cosmology, mythology, and power. The main objective is to understand how such sculptures reflect cultural values, beliefs, and the idea of integrating art with nature. The study also proposes approaches for conserving and presenting heritage that bridges local and global contexts. By comparing works with different origins but similar thematic intentions, this research highlights the role of heritage in transmitting identity, memory, and belief systems.

Methods: The research adopts a qualitative comparative analysis, examining the context, spatial setting, and forms of both monuments via the field surveys, photographic documentation, and analyses of construction techniques, materials, and symbolic elements. These data were synthesized to interpret the interrelations among sculptures, landscapes, and spiritual dimensions.

Results: Khao Mo at Wat Prayurawongsawat reflects Thai Buddhist cosmology, recreating a sacred landscape symbolizing Mount Meru. It integrates natural elements such as water, vegetation, and religious iconography to create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and spiritual reflection. In contrast, the Colossus of the Apennines embodies Renaissance and Mannerist ideals in Italy, employing mythological symbolism, artistic ambition, and architectural integration with nature. Beyond its artistic presence, the sculpture contains functional features, including interior chambers and a working water system, reflecting the era’s attempt to integrate art with functionality.

Application of this study: The findings indicate that heritage conservation must give priority to the context and the cultural values embedded within the structure to enhance restoration, interpretation, and communication of heritage significance. Comparative analysis further provides a foundation for cross-cultural knowledge exchange in art and architectural conservation, particularly within the framework of global heritage management, which requires interdisciplinary collaboration to preserve the profound meaning reflected in the works.

Conclusions: The comparison of Khao Mo and the Colossus of the Apennines demonstrates that historic monumental sculptures in public spaces can reflect cultural identity, religious worldviews, and artistic intent in profound ways. Despite differences in origin and style, both exemplify harmonious integration of art and nature, expressing shared human concerns with spirituality, myth, and memory. This study contributes to broader heritage discourse by emphasizing that conservation should extend beyond physical form to encompass intangible meanings. Cross-cultural perspectives on monumental stone sculptures enrich understanding of how societies interpret the relationship between humans, nature, and the sacred. They also highlight the necessity of contextual interpretation and interdisciplinary approaches that link art history, architecture, landscape architecture, and cultural studies. Ultimately, this research establishes a foundation for future comparative heritage conservation studies and promotes global awareness of the diverse ways in which meaning is conveyed through monumental art.

Language Variation on Social Media: How Thai Content Creators Teach the Pronunciation of /r/ in German

Akra Chowchong — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: This article examines the teaching methods used by Thai content creators on social media to teach the pronunciation of the German consonant /r/. It focuses on how different variants of /r/ are presented and discussed, particularly the uvular fricative [ʁ], which is considered the standard variant, and the alveolar trill [r], which exists in Thai but is often regarded as a regional feature in German. This issue reflects the contrast between standard language ideology and linguistic diversity in society. The study addresses these key questions: Do Thai content creators on social media incorporate the different variants of the German /r/ in their instructional materials? What factors influence their decisions to include or exclude this linguistic diversity in their teaching content?

Methods: This study employs corpus analysis to examine how the German consonant /r/ is presented and evaluated, using German language teaching materials produced by Thai creators from the ten most-subscribed YouTube channels and the ten most-followed Facebook pages. In addition, ethnographic interviews were conducted with five of the seven creators included in the corpus in order to gain insights into their educational backgrounds, linguistic experiences, and attitudes toward the standard language.

Results: The analysis of the teaching materials identifies two distinct pedagogical approaches: while some creators strictly adhere to prescriptive norms and teach only [ʁ], others acknowledge and incorporate [r] as a practical alternative for learners. The interview findings indicate that linguistic and educational backgrounds influence both the perception of the German /r/ and instructional approaches to this phoneme. The creators who have received language instruction based on the standard variety tend to present only the variant they are familiar with or accustomed to. In contrast, those with exposure to linguistic diversity or experience living in German-speaking countries are more likely to adopt a more inclusive approach toward linguistic variation.

Application of this study: In sociolinguistics, the findings show that social media functions as an open space for exchanging and debating the issues of linguistic correctness and standard language. In language teaching, the study underlines the importance of recognizing linguistic diversity and encouraging learners to think critically about linguistic rules. Presenting linguistic variation in language instruction reduces society’s exclusive adherence to a single standard form and helps foster more positive attitudes toward linguistic diversity, both in German and in other languages.

Conclusions: This study examined how Thai content creators teach the pronunciation of the German consonant /r/ on social media, focusing on how the variants [ʁ] and [r] are presented and with what attitude. The research analyzed language-teaching materials from 20 channels — 10 YouTube channels and 10 Facebook pages—and included ethnographic interviews with five creators. The findings reveal two main teaching approaches: one group adheres strictly to the standard language and teaches only the [ʁ] sound, while the other group embraces linguistic diversity and presents [r] as an acceptable alternative. The key factors influencing these approaches include linguistic background, education, and real experiences in using the German language. The findings indicate that social media serve as a space for exchanging linguistic ideas and embracing linguistic diversity, thereby fostering more open-minded language attitudes. This study demonstrates that language teaching materials do more than simply teach language; they also play a role in constructing and shaping ideologies of linguistic correctness, standard language, and linguistic diversity. Moreover, linguistic biographies and experiences with language diversity directly influence beliefs and attitudes toward languages.

Errors in Chinese Character Writing among Thai Learners: A Case Study of Students in an Intensive Chinese Language Course

Keetaworraluk Promprasit, Apirak Nusitchaiyakarn — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Learning to write Chinese characters requires time and continuous practice due to their complex structures and the importance of correct stroke order. However, in an intensive Chinese course where learning time is limited, students must memorize a large number of characters within a short period. This raises the research question, what types of writing errors do students in such intensive courses make, and what factors contribute to those errors? This study aims to investigate the writing errors of first-year students majoring in Chinese Studies at Mae Fah Luang University. The sample consisted of 21 students enrolled in an intensive Chinese course, which required them to learn a significant number of characters within a restricted timeframe. The study analyzed the errors from dictation tests covering 12 lessons with a total of 90 words.

Methods: A mixed-methods research design was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Dictation tests served as the primary instrument for data collection. The writing errors were categorized into five types: stroke-related errors, stroke combination errors, component errors, structural errors, and whole-character errors. The frequency of each type was calculated.

Results: The results of the study showed that the most common type of error was stroke-related, accounting for 46.1% of all errors. Most of these involved distorted or malformed strokes rather than missing or incorrect strokes. Stroke combination errors constituted 18.7%, mostly caused by writing strokes too far apart instead of connected. Component errors accounted for 16.5%, while structural and whole-character errors were less frequent, at 6.5% and 12.2%, respectively. These findings reflect the complexity of Chinese characters, learners’ unfamiliarity with character structures, and the impact of reliance on technology in teaching and learning.

Application of this study: The findings can be applied to enhance instructional practices in intensive Chinese courses, particularly by designing the activities that emphasize regular handwriting practice. These activities aim to address the most common errors—stroke-related mistakes—most of which stem from malformed strokes. Incorporating stroke order exercises, character structure comparisons, and digital tools with immediate feedback can help students practice more effectively outside class hours and reduce errors accurately. Furthermore, the research results can be used in adapting teaching activities to suit the context of courses which have limited instructional time and emphasize intensive and efficient learning.

Conclusions: This study supports previous findings on the complexity of Chinese characters and the effects of technological reliance on writing errors. However, it differs in the prioritization of error types, likely due to the specific characteristics of the sample group under study. In other words, students enrolled in intensive Chinese courses are required to learn the language within a limited timeframe and under highly demanding conditions. As a result, the factors contributing to errors may differ from those of learners in regular programs. These factors include the considerably shorter duration of study, varying levels of language proficiency among students, and instructional approaches that prioritize the rapid intake of information. These findings reflect that the learning patterns of students in intensive Chinese courses may necessitate different teaching approaches from those used in conventional Chinese language instruction. Such insights may serve as a foundation for developing curricula and learning materials that are tailored to the needs of learners in the digital era effectively.

The Application of Artificial Intelligence Technology in Language Translation: A Case Study of Using ChatGPT in Translating Korean Public Service Campaign Advertisements

Wanida Krawmoh — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: ChatGPT is a chatbot-based translation tool which is notable for its ability to translate a wide range of languages with accuracy. This research article employed ChatGPT to assist in translating Korean into Thai. The research materials consisted of Korean public service campaign advertisements, chosen because advertisements are intended to persuade and motivate audiences to take specific actions, making literal translation from the source language particularly challenging if the intended effect is to be preserved.The objectives of this research were 1) to examine the translation of vocabulary, idioms, and sentences from Korean into Thai using ChatGPT, and 2) to investigate the strengths and errors of ChatGPT’s Korean–Thai translations.

Methods: This research is a qualitative study. The source data were television and radio advertisements from the Korea Broadcast Advertising Corporation (Kobaco). Award-winning advertisements produced over a 20-year period (2004–2024) were selected, totaling 42 samples. Then, ChatGPT (GPT-5 Plus version) was used as the translation tool.

Results: The study found that ChatGPT’s translations of vocabulary, idioms, and sentences can be discussed in three main points: 1) Vocabulary translation of general words did not show major problems. However, caution was required when translating country names, as there was ambiguity regarding whether the terms referred to the source or target country. As for the translation of culture-specific terms, translators should exercise caution when using ChatGPT to translate them, while pronoun translation also posed challenges. In contrast, personal name translation did not show many problems. However, the translator should verify whether the transliteration is in line with the accepted standards. 2) Idiom translation by ChatGPT did not show problems, whether by adapting phrases into catchy slogans or using contemporary language. ChatGPT translated by referring to the context of the content and then linking the sentences consistently. 3) Sentence translation showed problems when there were gender-specific markers of the speaker in the sentence. The translator had to check with the original video whether the speaker was female or male. The advantages of ChatGPT translations are that 1) for the advantages of using ChatGPT, the translations showed wordplay, lexical variety, and fairly accurate choices of words in the target language. ChatGPT also provided functions such as automatically adding quotation marks and bolding important parts. 2) for the areas for improvement, ChatGPT had problems when translating archaic words, too short words or sentences, and synonyms. In these cases, the translations deviated from the actual meaning.

Application of this study: The findings of this research show the application of artificial intelligence to the translation of Korean public service advertisements into Thai. This provides a guideline for analyzing and applying artificial intelligence to the translation of other types of content, other types of advertisements, and other source and target languages

Conclusions: Over the past 20 years (2004–2024), public service advertisements of the Republic of Korea reflected vocabulary themes of individuality, family, and society, with the five most frequently used words being: 1) 부모 (parents), 2) 우리 (we, us), 3) 당신 (you), 4) 사회 (society), and 5) 배려 (consideration, caring for others). These words are part of the characteristics of advertisements for the public good, aiming to encourage audiences to change behaviors and motivate audiences to contribute toward a better society. This is a key message that translators should understand when producing translations of public service advertisements.

Information Services of Bangkok Metropolitan Administration’s Discovery Learning Libraries: Roles and Potential in Driving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

Sumattra Saenwa, Sasipimol Prapinpongsakorn — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are a set of global development goals adopted by the United Nations member states. Thailand has integrated the SDGs and the concept of sustainable development into its 13th National Economic and Social Development Plan. As a public library under this vision, Discovery Learning Libraries, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA) is an organization that operates under the aforementioned vision. Providing information services that respond to the SDGs is a key approach to modernizing libraries, aligning them with global contexts, and serves as a part of driving society toward sustainability. Therefore, the objective of this research is to study the information services and the role of Discovery Learning Libraries, BMA in driving the SDGs.

Methods: This research used a qualitative research approach. The key informants were divided into two groups: 38 library personnel and 102 library users within the scope of the 34 Discovery Learning Libraries, BMA. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis. The research findings were presented in the form of dashboards, tables, and descriptive narration.

Results: Discovery Learning Libraries, BMA play an important role in driving the SDGs across five essential dimensions, which clearly cover all 17 goals. However, challenges and gaps in driving the SDGs forward persist. For example, inter-organizational collaboration, which is consistent with its original mission, is not directly driven by the policies aimed at achieving the SDGs. A defined strategy plan and clear indicators are also lacking. Librarians are also unknowing of the SDGs, resulting in missed opportunities to improve existing services and activities with clearer goals. Instead of simply promoting reading or pursuing general goals, many initiatives are unable to measure and develop activities to their full potential for the SDG impact. Furthermore, there are limits due to a lack of materials and information resources that do not meet the needs of the users of every age group, which affects the creation and development of new activities. Personnel lack specialized skills and experience, as well as infrastructure and technology problems. Meanwhile, the needs of today’s users are becoming more particular and sophisticated. Users expect libraries to be places of opportunity for lifelong learning, career development, and quality of life enhancement. Recommendations for the library’s SDG implementation include developing and implementing a clear policy on the SDGs, developing and upgrading customized services, adapting management to a data-driven and flexible approach, and expanding collaborations based on its original mission to strategically seek partners to directly support the SDGs.

Application of this study: Discovery Learning Libraries can utilize the findings to develop policy strategies and action plans that align with the SDGs and the BMA development plan. In practice, they can improve and develop libraries to better fulfill the needs of a wider variety of users and be as specific as possible to target groups by clearly linking them to each SDG goal as part of the SDGs' outreach to the public.

Conclusions: This study reflects the current state and direction of learning libraries as public libraries when compared with the public library practices in other countries. To accomplish the SDGs by 2030, countries, including Thailand, need to work collaboratively to communicate, disseminate knowledge, and implement integrated activities as part of their responsibilities toward society. The impact and advantages will be assessed, resulting in changes in knowledge, skills, and behavior. The findings of this study can be utilized for both policy and practical purposes. At the policy level, they can inform strategic planning and action plans that align with the SDGs and the Bangkok Development Plan. At the practical level, the results can be applied to improve and develop the libraries to better meet the increasingly diverse and specific needs of target user groups, ensuring clear alignment with each relevant SDG goal.

A Study of Work Skills of Thai Students in the Digital Transformation Era

Sakulkarn Waleeittipat — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: Technology has played an integral role in facilitating work processes to achieve higher efficiency, transforming people’s ways of life, as well as their learning and working patterns. Thai students must develop the necessary skills to compete in the labor market and adapt to new technology and digital advancements, which have become significant aspects of the modern workplace. The objectives of this research were to 1) study and compare the measurement model of work skills among Thai students in the digital transformation era, categorized by the fields of study, and 2) examine students’ learning behavior and their level of demand for work skill development.

Methods: The study population and sample consisted of undergraduate students at King Mongkut's University of Technology Thonburi in their 3rd, 4th, and 5th years. The multistage random sampling method was employed to collect data from 822 individuals. The instrument used in this study was a questionnaire, which was divided into two parts. The first part comprised general information questions. The second part consisted of an 87-item questionnaire using a 5-point Likert scale to measure work skills. Work skills consisted of eight components with 28 indicators. The measurement instrument was checked for validity by using Index of Item-Objective Congruence (IOC), and reliability by using Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the quality of the appropriate tool. The statistical analysis included confirmatory factor analysis and the measurement invariance test, which were conducted to examine the structural measurement model using Mplus 8.0. Additionally, descriptive statistics and Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) were performed using SPSS.

Results: Firstly, the results showed that the measurement model of employability skills for Thai students in the era of digital transformation consisted of communication skill, management skill, learning skill, leadership skill, digital skill, adaptability, critical thinking, and creative thinking. Regarding the results of the second order confirmatory factor analysis, it was found that the measurement model for fundamental work skills of students in the era of global digital was consistent with the empirical data, (Δχ²(252, N=822)=25.86, p=.00, RMSEA=0.04, SRMR=0.03, CFI=0.98) and the test of the invariance measurement model of work skills among Thai students in the digital transformation era across four disciplines—science and technology, engineering, education, and design and creativity—was conducted to examine the configural invariance of the indicators of work skills. Each field of study prioritized a different set of skills. It is obvious that the measurement model of work skills among Thai students in the Digital Transformation Era shows different constructs in different groups. The group that differed was the one focusing on design and creativity, which prioritized critical thinking differently from other groups, while those in systematicity and analyticity had factor loadings that were not statistically significant (Δχ²(2-1) = 39.99; df(2-1) = 23) . Secondly, the results regarding students’ learning behavior and their level of demand for work skill development in Thailand revealed that even though we are living in the digital transformation era, students 1) demand onsite and online learning together (68.51%), 2) prefer to learn independently and receive Learning by doing experience (51.14%), and 3) desire to develop practical skills blended into their courses (51.54%). In addition, the confidence level in having work skills increases with the frequency of self-development. In other words, the more regularly they develop themselves, the more confident they feel about their ability to improve. (F(24, 2347) = 1.73, p=0.02, Pillai's Trace = 0.50, partial η² = 0.02).

Application of this study: The research findings provide essential insights into the state of Thai work skills, enabling instructors to identify students’ strengths and weaknesses in various skill areas. Moreover, this study aims to examine these skills by categorizing students based on their backgrounds, thereby generating in-depth data on which student groups excel in particular skills, which areas they struggle with, and how they should be further developed. The aforementioned information contributes to curriculum enhancement and instructional improvements, ensuring that students receive targeted development opportunities that align more precisely with educational object.

Conclusions: The measurement model of Thai work skills in the digital transformation era consists of communication skills, management skills, leadership skills, learning skills, digital skills, adaptability, critical thinking, and creative thinking. Each field of study prioritizes a different set of skills. The perception of possessing work skills increases with the frequency of self-development. Namely, the more regularly students engage in self-improvement, the more confident they feel in their ability to enhance their skills. This research findings can assist teachers and educational institutions in designing the courses that foster work skills development, aligning with the demands of the future labor market.

Development of Natural-Dyed Fabric Products from Pink Trumpet Tree Flowers to Promote Creative Tourism Under the Green University Concept

Susaraporn Tangtenglam — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Background and Objectives: The pink trumpet tree (Tabebuia rosea) is a large tree known for its soft pink, bright pink, and white blossoms. This “Pink Trumpet Tree Road” has become a well-known attraction for both Thai and foreign tourists. To create the products that reflect the unique beauty of the pink trumpet tree, or to utilize this tree to generate income and develop new innovations, this research, highlights the importance of utilizing natural resources found within Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus—particularly the use of natural materials derived from the pink trumpet tree—and aligns with the university’s strategic goal of enhancing resource management capacity for sustainability under changing conditions.

Methods: The design of fabric products using natural materials from the pink trumpet tree was divided into three steps: 1) preparing the raw materials, which includes the process of collecting pink trumpet tree flowers and methods for preserving them in conditions suitable for use as printing materials, as well as the ingredients needed to ensure the fabric patterns are durable; 2) printing the fabric to create the finished fabric; 3) transforming the printed fabric into various products that use the pink trumpet tree patterned fabric as a main component.

Results: The study found that the pink trumpet tree can be a viable natural material for textile product development. Fallen blossoms and leaf stalks were used to enhance the beauty of the patterns. The fabrics printed with these natural components were then transformed into various eco-friendly or low-carbon products such as scarves, shirts, bags, tablecloths, and pillowcases. These items were marketed under the brand name “Watthana Setthasawat” to honor the university’s first vice president, who was instrumental in planting the pink trumpet trees, and to be in line with the name of the Pink Trumpet Tree Road.

At the same time, a creative tourism activity base was designed, allowing visitors to observe or participate in fabric-making using natural materials and the leaf-printing technique with consideration for maximizing the use of the university’s natural resources and adhering to the principle of causing no environmental impact.

Application of this study: The technique of transferring colors and patterns from nature (leaves) onto fabric and materials made from natural fibers (printing process) through a heat method known as eco printing is an innovation that meets all needs and requires low investment. Therefore, we collaborated to test printing leaves onto 100% cotton fabric using color-fixing agents, including fruit extracts and rust water. This was a trial-and-error printing process until a beautifully colored and patterned leaf-printed fabric was achieved that was durable, safe from chemical dyes, and one-of-a-kind. The printed fabric was then used to create a variety of products for sale, generating income under The Premium @KU within KUniverse, which integrates the academic excellence and research work of the faculty of Kasetsart University.

Conclusions: The pink trumpet tree can serve as a natural material that can be developed into textile products by using the fallen flowers from the tree, as well as the leaf stalks, to enhance the beauty of the fabric patterns. This allows for the creation of various eco-friendly or low-carbon products made from the fabric printed with the components of T. rosea, including scarves, shirts, bags, tablecloths, and pillowcases, under the brand “Watthana Setthasawat.” This brand pays tribute to the first vice president who initiated and developed the planting of the pink trumpet trees, in alignment with the name of Chompoo Pantip Road. However, it can also be expanded into designing creative tourism activities in line with the green university concept, which includes demonstrations of fabric-making using natural materials or allowing visitors to participate in activities such as printing leaf patterns on fabric. This initiative considers the optimal use of natural resources within the university while also adhering to principles that do not negatively impact the environment.