What we found most interesting was the information on the "Royal Project". In the late 1960's the Thai King visited the hill tribes and found many problems. They were growing opium, which he didn't agree with. The tribes moved every year and each time they would slash and burn a section of land so that they could cultivate various crops and of course this had a huge impact on the lush environment. The tribal people also were not getting proper education or proper medical support.The King then started the Royal Project and helped the people find other cash crops that can grow well in the mountainous region. Growing and use of opium was made illegal in Thailand. They now have a brand called "Doi Khan" for food produced in the area. We'll have to check out the stores for it. He also started schools, ensuring that they received proper education and sent medical help as well. They researched grasses that would stop erosion of the land and began replanting much of the forested areas. He also encouraged the arts. I guess he knew how big the hill tribe tourism would be in the future, but it's also a great way to preserve their skills.
The King is truly loved by the Thai people and we have seen many examples of why that is so. You see pictures of him in every Thai home. The hill tribe people also love and respect the King. He seems really to be a man of the people. They play the national anthem every day at 6 p.m. in public places. In fact, last night we were in the market when they started playing the anthem and it was amazing. There were tons of people going about their business, sight-seeing, etc. As soon as the national anthem started, every single person stood to attention and was quiet. It almost felt like a scene from a movie. We all stood completely still and silent and once the anthem was over, everyone went back to what they had been doing.
CM + NM
1 comment:
Fabulous! Can you imagine what people would say if the anthem played every day at 6pm here? le
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