The Chinese Minority in Thailand: Social and Educational Perspective

This dissertation uses documentary sources to develop a narrative history of the Chinese minority in Thailand. Special emphasis is placed on formal and informal education as a means of providing continuity for the Chinese minority. The study concludes with the observation that the forces of cultural assimilation have tended to reduce the uniqueness of the Chinese in Thailand.
This dissertation discusses how the Chinese established their culture in Thailand’s society. The Chinese in Thailand assumed important roles in commerce, industry and society. Initially, they wanted to ensure that their children would be brought up as Chinese by maintaining their cultural identity and cultural status within their own community. Chapter II examines the history of the immigration of Chinese to Thailand by discussing demographics, society and economics. The point is made that the Chinese have concentrated on business enterprises, while the Thais have gravitated toward agriculture and government service. The writer also examines the problem of population growth. However, in recent years, Thailand’s government has developed policies to lower the rate of population growth by such special programs as family planning.
Chapter III examines informal education. In maintaining their culture Chinese voluntarily fraternities and business associations are of significance. It was these voluntary associations that facilitated the Chinese in making a qultural adaptation to Thai society. After this initial adaptation was accomplished, the association continued to advance the interest of the Chinese minority. They provided services to their members and acted as an intermediary between the Chinese community and the Thai government.
In chapter IV, the Chinese and Education examines schooling. The Chinese in Thailand began their children’s education at home and at Chinese temples, where they were taught by Chinese teachers. In 1892, the first Chinese school was built. By 1933, there were 271 Chinese schools in existence. The Thai government became concerned about the rapid increase of Chinese schools. Finally, the Thai government passed the Private Act, which required that Chinese schools had to meet certain requirements or otherwise be subject to closing.
After the contexts of Thai history and the Chinese entry into Thailand are examined, both informal and formal education relating to Chinese participation is discussed. This dissertation concludes with a treatment of “The changing situation” of the Chinese minority. Chinese remain an ethnic group The conclusion is that the in Thailand despite their experiencing a considerable degree of assimilation.