In marking the launch of the ASEAN Economic Community on Dec. 31, Prime Minister Gen. Prayut Chan-o-cha missed the point in urging Thais to stay alert to new opportunities and improve their English-language skills. These are surely important, but they are not key values for regional integration.

Speaking on the eve of the AEC’s advent, Prayut encouraged people to develop new skills and knowledge that would benefit both their individual careers and the competitiveness of the nation as a whole.

The government forged six strategies to prepare for regional integration. But, after years of efforts to raise public awareness about ASEAN, bolster education, labor skills and technology, and build networks for international trade and investment, noticeable progress has been negligible.

Forging a common regional identity is a mammoth task that requires not only the clear vision of leaders but also the participation of citizens at every level.

In Thailand that vision and participation has been badly marred by the government’s overemphasis on the economy at the expense of the social and political pillars of integration. As a result, most Thais are unready for the expected influx of goods and people from neighboring countries and still need to brush up on their English skills as a universal means of communication. Concerted efforts by the mass media and universities to educate the public have done little to improve this situation. However, it is the government that must shoulder most of the blame for our general lack of preparedness.

The reality is that regional economic integration began several years ago with the introduction of low or zero import duties on several goods traded between ASEAN neighbors. Several economic sectors were opened up to regional participation. Yet, despite these moves, intra-ASEAN trade accounts for only one-quarter of the region’s total trade with the world. The level of investment among ASEAN neighbors is even lower.

The government should also carry the blame for the failure to bolster the political pillar of regional integration. Contained in the blueprint of the ASEAN Community are pledges to develop democracy, counter corruption and promote and protect human rights. The current government has failed to meet those pledges since coming to power in a coup in May last year, preferring to delay a return to elections and suppress basic democratic rights. Once a champion of democracy and civil liberties in Southeast Asia, Thailand is now viewed by many as a “sick man.”

ASEAN as a grouping remains committed to a vision of democracy, good governance and human rights. As a core member, Thailand should be clarifying the steps it is taking to achieve those objectives, not urging citizens to improve their labor and language skills – something they should do with or without the coming of the AEC.

We are gratified to hear that Prime Minister Prayut has resolved this year to “speak less and listen more.” In responding positively to calls for democracy to be restored, he would be aiding Thailand’s integration into the ASEAN Community.

Editorial
The Nation (Thailand)
(Asia News Network)