Someone told me that Current Miss Thailand World 1996, Cindy, Miss Sirinya Vinsiri(สิรินยา วินศิริ), is a "farang"(Caucasian). I look and I look, I thought she really did wondered off from Miss teen USA. Aright, she's pretty, but she also looks anything but Thai. But she IS, legally Thai. This raised two old questions... how do we define being Thai? and more intriguing question, how do Thai people values and represents the concept of "human beauty". Have the judges been watching too much 90201 and Baywatch? or is Thai society really worships the western look. Ahh, talk about the superficial world of beauty contest.

Issue one, how do we define being a certain nationality? Is it really about where you are born? or what it says in your passport? If the person hates his/her own country, what good does it do to claims his/her nationality? How about what's in the heart and soul of the individual, does that count? Would you call a person born in Thailand and raised in other countries, knows nothing about Thailand a Thai? What about foreigner born and raised in Thailand such as this case, where both of Cindy's parents are farang? My opinion? What ever a nationality the person feels, deep inside their soul, and has the love, appreciation, and pride, for, thatีs where they belong, and thats when the country will benefit from such a person. What makes a person "Thai" isn't about who gives birth to whom where, but how that individual see themselves, based on how he/she was influenced by the society and the environment that he/she was raised in. So shouldn't a lie and/or love detector be part of nationality declaration requirement?!? ;-)

Take a look at the famous "Babe" a pig raised by a sheep dogs. The environment and circumstances had left him no choice but to make believe that he's a dog! ..Well, if he thinks he is, then he is! Although in his blood, his genetic, and deep down inside, he knows he's a pig. If he's able to isolate other people's opinion about him, he can easily become what ever he believed he is. But in the real world, the fact is, outside opinions will almost always influence self perception(the whole concept of advertising), especially in the world of glamour. I wonder how this current miss Thailand World thinks of herself when she looks in the mirror. No matter how many times she twisted her face or turn the mirror, she'll still doesn't look Thai. I would like to know how strong her self perception about being a "Thai" is...then again.. who am I to say what should a "Thai" look like anyway!

Hey, this mixed up value thing could be fun, maybe we'll have a one whole big "international melting pot". Where Caucasian baked in tanning salon, Japanese with blond hair, Braided hair Filipinos wearing funky brother's cloth and Thai with blue eyes! Colorful world isn't it? Everyone seems to tries to be someone else. Western boys are drooling over Asian girls. Asian boys wants to look like Brad Pitt. What's up? I don't know but its kinda fun! Just realize one thing. The real WINNER behind this superficial world of beauty is marketing, creating temptation to be self unsatisfied, discontented of what we are, what we have. To make us adore something that you don't have so that we try to buy our way there. Check out how lucrative plastic surgery business is. "BRAVO!" to them advertising company! whoo hoo!

The sad news about this is that the poor(rich?) girl, miss Cindy, she'll represent Thailand as "Thai beauty queen", but she'll need to show her birth certificate along with her passport everytime she tells anyone what country she's representing.

Once again, my concept of nationality is personal, a genuine feeling for the country, cirtainly not skin deep, and not on the birth cirtificate. "What ever a nationality the person feels, deep inside their soul, and has the love, appreciation, and pride, for, thatีs where they belong, and thats when the country will benefit from such a person. "

Okay, some of you may say this is about "racism", very convenient isn't it? You are missing the point. There is no put down, nor any mention of what ever skin color is bad. I brought this up to ask if this could be another example of commercial trends effecting the respect, pride, and identity of what makes a certain country unique and different. If this is purely about mixed of skin color, I personally enjoy the change, as a nation is becoming more of "world community". What I'm more concerned about is the change arriving from commercial influences, where people believing in a certain product or people is better, simply because they seem foreign. Lets look at the current Thai Model and celebrity, how many of them are 'required' to have a loog-krung (half Thai/half Caucasian) look? Did you know that over 60% of Thai celebs are look-krueng? Why is that? If there is 'racism' at all, it maybe Thais who seems to be lacking of pride for their own race, in which they are, so beautiful. :)

I think that Cindy does deserve to be Miss Thailand. She takes pride of Thailand. And that is the most important thing of all. Let's say a Thai Girl who was born in the USA and raised in the US, does not know how to speak, rite, or read Thai. She just moved to Thailand, and entered the beauty pageant. I would consider her not Thai, cuz she don't take in Thai Pride. If she did, then she would have know to speak, read, and write Thai. She doesn't deserve to win. I think Cindy really deserve to be Miss Thailand...

Jonil Raptor <jonil_raptor@hotmail.com> from ppp-86-ans.vnet.net on Wednesday, July 19, 2000 at 04:02:20

I agree about the comment below about nationality not being the same as ethnicity.There is no standard Thai racial type, just as there is n't a British or US or Europian standard racial type.Thailand never was racially homogenious.Thai is a nationality not a race, the racial element comes from the idea that modern Thai's have predominatly Tai noi ancestry.The Tai noi also known as the Siamese (Syaam is a word that the ancient Khmer people used to describe the Tai tribes moving into what is now Thailand from their northern origins ;it means swarthy or dark).Prior to the inclusion of the farang element into the Thai gene pool Modern Thais were made up of a mix of tribal Tai groups; including the Shan, the Lao and the Siamese who mixed with the ancient indiginous Mon Khmer groups.Later a large proportion of Chinese were added to this mix in the "Thai" genepool. Although I personally believe beauty is in the eye of the beholder and everyone of what ever racial or ethnic group has the right to represent their country. I do feel that modern Thai culture as well as class issues and the rural urban divide has tended to mean the disproportionate represention of lighter skinned people of either predominatly Chinese ancestry or those of mixed sino-Thai farang ancestry.How many dark skinned girls from the south or the khmer part of Buriram have you seen advertising cosmetics in Thai magazines.Of course Sino-Thai girls or even Farang-Thai girls have just as much right to be Miss Thailand as any one else, but how nice it would be to see in a Thai newspaper advert or on T.V. or representing Thailand as miss world someone who was perhaps of Lao or Mon or Khmer ancestry or from southern Thailand or actually looked browner than me (and I'm a very pale Celtic/Anglo-Saxon etc).Then maybe Thai's would stop their obsession with white skin and my girlfriend who is a beautiful Issarn lady from Sisaket could stop bleeching her skin with those horrible creams you sell in Thailand.

lek from infocache.netline.net.uk on Thursday, April 13, 2000 at 20:42:57

Cindy...i still can't believe that i ran into you at this little surfshop Redondo Beach....i was shoked to see you there...after so long:-)(i was nervous like hell:-))ha ha ha.

Fred <sealife13@aol.com> from 98ab93c7.ipt.aol.com on Monday, June 21, 1999 at 16:51:37

Was the King of Thailand not born in Masachusettes (USA)? If so, does that mean he is an american?

from beech.kcl.ac.uk on Wednesday, June 02, 1999 at 22:46:51

Oh yeah, Another thing....From reading the comments below, is it right to compare thailand with America or Europe. Countries that have been colonising the world, and therefore has a whole mixture of races. With time Thailand will change though, but is up to Thais to preserve their heritage, customs, etc... I mean why not just bring in a farang to govern the country. Would they not do a better job, and be more respected by thai people? Thailand is not like the rest of the world. It is UNIQUE.

app from beech.kcl.ac.uk on Wednesday, June 02, 1999 at 22:35:01

I think u have some very interesting points that I would agree with. Here in England, Thai girls are becoming a bit of a joke to farangs. Why? because here all farangs know how easy it is to pull a Thai lady...Thais will literally throw themselves at farangs. And this fact is highlighted on TV often. Also, it is clear that thais are losing their identities. A once beautiful country that has never been invaded and colonised by the west, rapidly being taken over. Thais look at farangs as Gods, but farangs look at thais and the whole of SE-Asia as a joke, with no pride. A second point is that thais born in the states or Europe, and also those that r half White, etc, will never call themselves Thai as they r too ashamed.......Well unless that is, they r famous in thailand. To all Thai people....Be Proud of who u r, and show that REAL Thai is beautiful

app from beech.kcl.ac.uk on Wednesday, June 02, 1999 at 22:22:05

i think that letting the farang enter is a joke thai women are the most beautiful in the world.only thai women who are ethnically thai should be considered and not who obtain thai passport just by being born in thailand.

m. hussain <vanada324@hotmail.com> from onions.wwwcache.ja.net on Saturday, May 22, 1999 at 00:13:44

Cindy, Wishing you a happy birthday and a properous 1999! If you have free moment please drop me a "Hello" at "amnara@yahoo.com" Att-

Attapong Amnarttanakul <amnara@yahoo.com> from tan7.ncr.com on Sunday, January 03, 1999 at 02:22:49

It been almost a year since I visited this page. I knowtest that people still have mix feeling about my friend here. I know here personaly. We grew up together, and went to the same school. December 30th is her birthday, why don't we wish her a happy birthday. She will be 20 this year. Time has really gone by. I tried to call you on your birthday for the last two year. But you were always in Bangkok doing something or working. I know that your a bussy girl, but give me a break, I haven't spoken to you in 2 year. Cindy, if you are reading this. I miss you... I know that you are bussy doing commercial and tv series, but you should find time for your self. Any way, I think I better go. I see you the next time I visite this page or in Thailand this March 1999.

Jerry Bryant <JerryB78@hotmail.com> from ts011d04.oak-ca.concentric.net on Tuesday, December 29, 1998 at 16:05:10

Whoa! What happened? The last time I visited Thailand in 1996, nobody spoke English and one day I discover this site and everyone is getting into complex issues with elaborate use of English. Way to go Thailand! Nevertheless, I leave you with this thought: Is embracing a foreign language somewhat like changing your hair colour and becoming a 'farang' yourself? hmmm...

Iggie <bimmerman18@hotmail.com> from bat-46-101.tm.net.my on Saturday, December 19, 1998 at 12:05:54

I think beauty pageants contests are crap! What I think is beautiful is far from what Cindy looks like. Of course i not calling her ugly ..i don't know.. they should just stop this beauty pageant bullshit! =( p'keng

p'keng <keng@keng.com> from 209.52.46.216 on Thursday, December 10, 1998 at 04:13:55

Very good!

Noppadol Prammanee <nop_p@hotmail.com> from g212.fhsu.edu on Wednesday, December 02, 1998 at 07:32:28

I think this is so crap. People should do whatever they want to. Does this matter concern u?? I think its crap how everyone is judgemental on others. Cindy is very pretty and it is a Beauty contest. Shouldnt it just be for the heart of thai?? doesnt mean u have to be thai or a thai look alike to b it. I think its so dumb how racist come to play with pples behavior. This about it.. we are all racist in a way. I mean its natural. We stereotype pple, isnt that part of racist. I think this is not the issue here. THE ISSUE WE ARE TALKING BOUT HERE IS "JEALOUSY" this is a big part in pples lives. U think that cindy is too pretty to be a thai contest model. But just remember its what inside that counts. You shouldnt have to b so jealous bout it. Think it this way, beauty comes then beauty goes. I mean whats the point? we are always going to age eneways. Meaning we loose our beauty eneways. So i think study is more important. And the more popular u are, like in beauty.. the more hassles there are. People will chase after u, u get promoted to do a commercial or something, then next thing u have paparatzies coming at u. Then leads to u being stalked and having all this fan. Whats so good bout it? thats just the point i wanna make to ya all who is reading this shit. I know its crappy shit that just comes out of the toilet!! so if u dont like it. STUFF U DICKHEADS AND BIARCHES!! GOT THAT? I HOPE U DO

thaigurl from bridge.q-net.net.au on Tuesday, December 01, 1998 at 21:17:16

I think she is very attractive girls. I haved seen her at Pattaya before long time ago, the first time i saw her, i am completly shock, and really want to get to know her, I think she is the most attractive girls in thailand, i wish i could know her address

Mark <Mphinyawatana@hotmail.com> from jupiter.infonews.co.th on Sunday, September 06, 1998 at 13:45:15

I am a luk krug as you would call me being born to a Thai mother and a British father born in America. I often have this debate within myself. America has had contestants in the miss universe pagent who have been asian so why not Thai people have a Furang contestant.

from 207.233.42.77 on Tuesday, September 01, 1998 at 23:43:40

I understand your feelings about seeing a "farang" representing Thailand. I have many of those same feelings when I see an "african-american" or a "hispanic" representing the United States for they don't "look" or talk like me and do not share the same cultural background that I do. So what is the answer? Should we have criteria that the contestants must meet and more importantly who will make the decision as to what is acceptable and what is not? We had criteria like that in this country once and I don't think very many people want to go back to the way it was.

Max Sullivan <mrsullivan@worldnet.att.net> from 84.orlando-02.fl.dial-access.att.net on Sunday, August 09, 1998 at 20:00:07

I rarely visit this page after my brief comment concerning Cindy. Don't get me wrong, I do not have anything against her decision to run for Miss Thailand. Cindy is an attractive young lady and has every quality that meet the qualification. In addition, it is my hope that all individuals contributing to this forum does not walk away feelings that something wrong. Was said about her. The comment to this forum, for the most part, appear to be candid and thoughtful and allow for an open expression of one's opinions. However some of the opinions are not in the best choice of words. Going back to the contest, there is no doubt in my mind that this pageant exist in disguise to promote female inequality, attempting to define beauty for the purpose of laundering beauty products. Cindy had made a decision to compete and I support her completely However, where I differ in my opinion are her qualifications, or for that matter the rules used to qualify a contestant to represent the people of Thailand. In my mind, an individual selected to represent Thailand should bare at minimum a resemblance to its people. Not only is it a genetic connections, but that of history, cultures and what is deserving of the people as their representation. She is the one uniting the country by rallying the pride of its people, representing us to the world. She is the wind that sweeps across the rice field on the summer's night , the smile on very child's face - the blood that runs through all of our vain, blind to consummation of cultures. You see, being Thai is being of variation. Like colors of a rainbow, we are made up of many cultural heritages. Truly we must be happy with who we are and be comfortable with ourselves, able to express our identity without second guessing that person the mirror. One day we will come to grip with our selves, understand that for very day we want to withhold our culture we also must give up a little of ourselves to the changing world. This may not be Cindy's time to shine as Miss Thailand but I am certain that one day we will accommodate anyone beyond the color of their skin and call them brothers and sisters. I ask that everyone contribute to this forum in a professional manner, put yourself in the other person's shoe before you decide to write something demeaning. Take care of each other - one world, one people.

changmai007 <amnara@yahoo.com> from tres.vandenberg.af.mil on Wednesday, June 10, 1998 at 10:05:40

Let me ask you this : DOES CINDY LOOK THAI??.( If Cindy looks Thai to you I must be a farang in disguise!) Our contestant should represent the majority of what Thai people look like.... who cares if she can speak Thai , born in Thailand... does the rest of the world care? When they see her and judge her by her appearance which they inevitably will... (it’s a BEAUTY CONTEST).....THEY WILL NOT THINK OF HOW CLEVER tHAI PEOPLE ARE IN ATTEMPTING TO FOOL THEM WITH THIS SUBSTITUTE FOR tHAI BEAUTY but rather how STUPID we are and how insecure we feel about being born the way we are ... so there you have it all our insecurities as a nation in the form of a model / representative of Thai people... an obviously Caucasian..It’s either that or we’ve fooled the world into thinking we’re a nation of fair skinned, green eyed asians...hahahah .

THAIPRIDE <tOHMI@HOTMAIL.COM> from chrome.one.net.au on Sunday, June 07, 1998 at 20:17:55

Let me ask you this : DOES CINDY LOOK THAI??.( If Cindy looks Thai to you I must be a farang in disguise!) Our contestant should represent the majority of what Thai people look like.... who cares if she can speak Thai , born in Thailand... does the rest of the world care? When they see her and judge her by her appearance which they inevitably will... (it’s a BEAUTY CONTEST).....THEY WILL NOT THINK OF HOW CLEVER tHAI PEOPLE ARE IN ATTEMPTING TO FOOL THEM WITH THIS SUBSTITUTE FOR tHAI BEAUTY but rather how STUPID we are and how insecure we feel about being born the way we are ... so there you have it all our insecurities as a nation in the form of a model / representative of Thai people... an obviously Caucasian..It’s either that or we’ve fooled the world into thinking we’re a nation of fair skinned, green eyed asians...hahahah .

THAIPRIDE <tOHMI@HOTMAIL.COM> from chrome.one.net.au on Sunday, June 07, 1998 at 20:16:58

IS THIS AN IMPORTANT ISSUE??... errr no, not really when you consider the other problems within our society but it can be significant if it effects the way impressionable Thai Youth feel about themselves IN REGARDS TO Thai culture, looking Thai , speaking Thai.... come on guys being Thai is something money cannot buy, it is something you’re born wih and if lucky enough, die with. Our ancestors have fought hard for our everyday as we know it, we are one of only two countries in ASIA which have not been exploited, err “colonised “ by western powers in terms of territory...if you know this deep inside then STOP acting like being born Thai was an inconvenience si ka! ***THAI PRIDE.*** Which brings me to the point: ARE WE OVER-ANALYZING the situation a little here? IT’S A BEAUTY CONTEST for crying out loud people! Therefore it’s worthiness of our energies is questionable! What is the purpose of such a practice in today’s society apart from selling stuff? I hope the outcome isn’t a reflection of how Thai People feel about themselves... ie. appointing a caucasian girl to represent them on the world stage.... we can debate forever about what constitutes a “Thai” but let’s look at it in this form... a beauty contest ,because after all that’s all it is/ was right? It’s about looking Thai to represent Thailand right? Let me ask you this : DOES CINDY LOOK THAI??.( If Cindy looks Thai to you I must be a farang in disguise!) Our contestant should represent the majority of what Thai people look like.... who cares if she can speak Thai , born in Thailand... does the rest of the world care? When they see her and judge her by her appearance which they inevitably will... (it’s a BEAUTY CONTEST).....THEY WILL NOT THINK OF HOW CLEVER tHAI PEOPLE ARE IN ATTEMPTING TO FOOL THEM WITH THIS SUBSTITUTE FOR tHAI BEAUTY but rather how STUPID we are and how insecure we feel about being born the way we are ... so there you have it all our insecurities as a nation in the form of a model / representative of Thai people... an obviously Caucasian..It’s either that or we’ve fooled the world into thinking we’re a nation of fair skinned, green eyed asians...hahahah .

THAIPRIDE <tohmi@hotmail.com> from chrome.one.net.au on Sunday, June 07, 1998 at 20:05:44

I agree with Ann, who ever she is. But I'm glad you said something about it. I was so surprise and sorry for cindy that I didn't say anything to defend her. I often come to visit this page, at least once every two week and was glad to see that there ar e some good and understanding people out there. Hay I'm half thai/american too. And I'm hearing what you're saying.May be you can E-Mail me and we can talk about this . It nice to know that there good and kind people out there. This is Jerry ...sighing off.

jerry bryant <GERALD BRYANT@csum.edu> from comcenter67.csum.edu on Monday, February 09, 1998 at 10:01:55

I want to comment on something I just saw earlier. Something about about white people suck. I hope you know I'm half Asian/American and that is not a nice comment to say. Didn't your mother taught you not to make fun or others cause the color of their skin, eye, hair color,or what they wear that makes them different from others. I still can't believe that this issue is STILL a big thing. Why can't you stop your hate aginst whites. I'm not mad at you but mad at you behavior and what message your senting out to those young kids in Thailand. Just because you have a bias comment doesn't mean you could spread out your word aginst others. I hope you understand how I feel at this point. Next time if you have a really bad comment about Americans being with Thais. KEEP IT TO YOURSELF cause nobody wants to hear something bad about their ethnical backround.

Ann from 129.63.184.63 on

i like cindy so much ;-)

zomkitt <say@mytel.com> from 203.144.249.214 on Tuesday, February 03, 1998 at 17:43:59

CONGRADULATION CINDY...I'M VERY PROUD OF YOU.DISREGARD WHAT OTHER PEOPLE SAY, YOU ARE ONE OF MY VERY GOOD FRIEND. WE GREW UP TOGETHER IN THE SAME TOWN OUR PARENTS EVEN KNOW EACH OTHER.I KNOW WHO YOU ARE AND YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE AND THAT'S ALL THAT MATTER. I'M VERY SORRY THAT I WAS NOT THERE TO SUPPORT YOU IN THE TIME OF NEED. I LIVE HALF WAY AROUND THE WORLD FROM YOU AND THE ONLY EXCUSE THAT I COULD GIVE IS... I DIDN'T KNOW. JUST REMEMBER YOUR FRIEND WHO WILL ALWAY SUPPORT YOU IN THE TIME OF NEED. WE ARE THE CLOSES THING YOU GOT BESIDE YOUR FAMILY.TO ALL THE PEOPLE THAT READING THIS PAGE, SHE A GOOD GIRL, GIVE HER A CHANCE. SHE'S JUST LIKE YOU AND ME,DEEP DOWN INSIDE. I FEEL SAD FOR YOU AND COULD ONLY WISH YOU WOULD HAVE TELL ME ABOUT IT EARLIER. YOU KNOW WHERE I'M SO DON'T FORGET YOUR FRIENDS EVEN IF THERE ARE HALF WAY AROUND THE WORLD. I WOULDN'T KNOW WHAT TO SAY SO I'LL JUST LOG OFF. THIS IS JERRY...SIGHNING OFF.

GERALD BRYANT (JERRY NOI) <lorelie@telis.org> from comcenter70.csum.edu on Monday, January 26, 1998 at 23:07:28

What is wrong with our society today? Too much western commercialism Probably. Witness insurmountable comments from westerners. Pathetic isn't it? I think so. Farang telling Thai what they should look like, how they should act and what they should buy. We have western products flooding the market thanks to the ineffectiveness of Thai's trade policy. When we buy western goods and services we get blame for trying to be farang. A double edged white sword. What's wrong with Cindy? Everything !! I can't believe the Thai pageant committee had allow itself to digress this far, probably getting pressure from the western beauty product executives. What is wrong with brown eyes, black hair, Thai language, Thai culture, respect for his and her Majesty , beliefs in Buddhism, love of the land and its people, great and small, I can go on and on. There is nothing wrong. When I say I am from Thailand I mean I am from Thailand. My life and love for Thailand is like a spider web: it is held together by val ues and belief systems that are inter-woven with seamless thread of silk. I know what the dirt smell like, I know what are cultivated from the land, I know the people of many distinct characteristics and beauty, north and south, east and west ,holding on e belief within their heart that they too are Thai. To those with degree of expertise beyond a summer's visit or academia with years of knowledge but lack depth of common core with Thai people, you do not understand. Thai people are happy most when they are Thai. Call us friendly, called us nice, call us preoccupy with western trash, call us whatever you like, but please take off your shoe when you come through the door and respect our culture when you’re in our house. Of cause this is all one man’s opinion, but I do know what is Thai and what is not. Miss Thailand? Common, you be too dumb to let the western-centric culture influence who you really are. People who say this is RACISM, you better look a little deeper. This has nothing to do with r acism. What this is about is the power of western influence and money. I rather Miss Thailand be the real Miss Thailand. It is about heritage, cultural awareness, respect for our elders, belief in our Buddhist way of life, honoring our father and mothe r, give to the needy and so much more. If your a Thai and if you have any doubt of who you are look deep within yourself. Our root is deep and you know what, it is connect to land, the place we call home, Thailand. Please, give me the real Miss Thail and or else trash this western event that seek to degrade the very finesse of our people. So, don’t forget where you come from or who you are. Being a Thai is not an inconvenience, no matter how much others report to know about your culture. Being a Thai is an honor. Cindy, PLASSSEEEEEEESSSSSS! Whew, got to go eat some Somtum and Moo-Yoom! Anyone want to go!?

attapong <changmai007@hotmail.com> from 149.25.69.143 on Wednesday, January 21, 1998 at 07:45:21

why a beauty contest? all people are beautiful if we look at the innermost part of a person where the real beauty is.

jeshepherd <docharley> from 208.23.188.34 on Monday, January 05, 1998 at 03:26:39

well...what can i say.....things like this happen in thailand!what makes this country so weird in its way...:-) (just a comment*smile*)

senasarn <neo-siam@usa.net> from lox1.loxinfo.co.th on Monday, August 04, 1997 at 03:45:44

From Jan. 1994 to July 1996 I lived and worked in Thailand from the north to the south. And I must say that most Thais all want to copy or look American because if they did not there would not be so many Levi , MB , plastic surgeons , nikes , and copies of everything american. Best of all you would not see all those thai women with American nose , butt , and breast jobs. Along with the clothes and cars. Thais want everbody to believe they are as smart as Americans because they look like us. This from a Country where there leaders buy there college degrees and do not earn them. This is because they believe if you look the part you are, but how wrong they are.

Dave Alexander <N/A> from sarnoff.ge.com on Wednesday, June 25, 1997 at 00:52:37

"BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER!!" and that is just one of the reasons I married a beautiful Thai woman. Now we have four LOOG KRUNG sons and they are very popular here in the USA with the ladies. You need to start with the Corporate sponsors, who pick the judges, and define to them what the people of Thailand want most to represent them. Personally, I would pick only a Thai women of Thai ancestory of both parents. Next question, is that parent half, chinese, India, etc. To many legal probl ems now a days. If you need a judge just, e-mail. Good Luck.

ED <luvmypet@arc.net> from ras115.arc.net on Thursday, May 29, 1997 at 05:06:25

An old saying I was taught, "Beauty is in the eye of beholder." The Thai women I married I thought was beautiful. The U.S. has become a melting pot of many nationalities. I can assure you Thailand has a great reputation for beautiful women. We rece ntly saw the Miss Universe contest, we thought Miss Thailand was pretty but have seen better. The 10 finalist, I thought only 2 or 3 should have been there. The winner Miss USA was from the state of Hawaii and her hertitage was made up of six nationalit ies. Money is talking in Thailand just like the USA

ED <luvmypet@arc.net> from ras101.arc.net on Wednesday, May 28, 1997 at 21:27:43

I would have to agree that the article is very well written, raising this conroversial issue of what constitutes a "real" Thai without getting sidetracked with subjective undertones. I believe the judges were bold in their decision to pick Cindy; I jus t hope she was chosen for the right reason, not how she looks but who she is - a real Thai. Being 100% ethnically Thai myself, but culturally American, I can honestly say I'd have a better chance to win Miss USA, than Miss Thailand anyday! I have never co nsidered myself Thai, though I certainly don't deny my ancestry. I'd like to wish Cindy the best of luck in achieving her goals and as long as she considers herself truly Thai, what with knowing the culture/language, etc., who cares what others think? Be yourself!

Karen <pbunny@hotmail.com> from slip166-72-216-108.ga.us.ibm.net on Tuesday, May 27, 1997 at 06:43:43

This article is extremely well written...I agree that Miss Thailand World should represent Thai ethnic beauty, which Thailand has in abundance. I think the judges need to reconsider what "Thai beauty" really constitutes, and to realize that the choice they made seems to place Western beauty as the ideal. Thailand has plenty of Asian beauties to be proud of...I don't understand why the judges saw the "farang" look as best. Anyways, the choice has been made, and I wish Cindy the best of luck.

Amalee <TLeeMcCoy@aol.com> from 152.163.194.162 on Friday, May 16, 1997 at 00:14:49

Wussup? I'm fourteen years old and am a Joni and Louis fan ever since their first album "Raptor." N'wayz Joni and Louis are doing a hella good job and I think they deserve a raise. I applaud R.S. Promotion for not only taking in " look- krung" but also looking at the special talents they have. NAd Joni and Louis do need to have a break because it could stunt their growth. But all in all you guys are da bomb and wish you best wishes. Peace Out!!!! Joni and Louis fan

Joni and Louis fan from pc611.shoreline.kcls.org on Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at 06:40:56

I believe Thai people aren't being racist or anything, but the "look-krung" look is very popular. I feel Thai businesses companies should look at peoples' talents and not at what they just look like. Celebrities and models for the last decade have bee n mostly "look-krung" . For instance Miss Thailand, she was born and raised in Thailand, but she can barely even speak Thai. How can she represent a Thai country when she doesn't even look Thai? She may be pretty and she may be smart, but if she does n't feel Thai what's the point? Because when people see her and look at her they think in their mind she's Thai? She doesn't even look Thai. When people see her they expect something totally different something that is totally Thai. But instead what the y see is totally different.

Ranee Soundara from pc611.shoreline.kcls.org on Wednesday, May 14, 1997 at 06:34:41

Dear broken pencil, I was born in Thailand, but I've lived in the Netherlands for more than 20 years now. My way of thinking and behaviour is more Dutch than Thai, but Thailand has a very special place in my heart! Next year I'll come to work as a trainee in a fine Thai hotel. I hope to learn more about the language and the culture. I can speak Thai, but not very well. By the way, your article was interesting. Chokdee, Kanya (26 years old)

kanyalaksana zwartjes <962131@hdh.nl> from emp-50.hdh.nl on Tuesday, May 13, 1997 at 06:31:43

Joni and Louis are da bomb. And Aneda I read yo letta (comment) and you don't even know him. How can you say you love him. Yes, I do agree Louis Scott is very adorable and just a sweet guy. Your probably just thinking you love him, but how could you when you don't even know him? N'wayz Louis Scott is da bomb, but I like Joni better, even if he isn't thai at all. He's half Indonesian and Scottish. Thais are crazy, 'bout "look-krung", but where did all the fine Thai boys go. Imean the reason Thais like Halfs so much is because there aren't enough fine thai Boys. So I do respect halfs, because dey are da bomb. And Aneda you're a Boter!!!

R.S. Promotion from 38.245.190.125 on Monday, May 12, 1997 at 05:36:35

Joni and Louis are da bomb. And Aneda I read yo letta (comment) and you don't even know him. How can you say you love him. Yes, I do agree Louis Scott is very adorable and just a sweet guy. Your probably just thinking you love him, but how could you when you don't even know him? N'wayz Louis Scott is da bomb, but I like Joni better, even if he isn't thai at all. He's half Indonesian and Scottish.

R.S. Promotion from 38.245.190.125 on Monday, May 12, 1997 at 05:32:11

SA-WA-DEE-KAAA!!!!! WE FILL SORRY FOR YOU BUT YOU ARE SO BEUTIFUL,CINDY!!!GREETING TO EVERYBODY OF THAILAND THAT WE LOVE YOU AND WE LOVE THAILAND.WE LIVE IN SWEDEN AND WE ARE THREE BEST FRIENDS,MY NAME IS -SAI AND MY TWO BEST FRIENDS IS PORN 13 AND MARIANA 13 AND M E 15 YEARS OLD.AT 29 MAY WE GONE GO TO THAILAND AND DANCE FOR THE KING FAMELYS,WE HOPE YOU SE US TOOO!!!!!SEND TO ME AND MY FRIENDS!!!SEE YOU IN THAILAND ,WE HOPE SO!!!!BYE BYE,WE WANT TO SAY,WE LOVE JONI AND LOUISE AND WE LOVE YOU TO CINDY,CINDY ITดS VE RY BEUTIFUL NAME!!!BYE!!HEJ Dล!!HOPE YOU HAVE A GOOD TIME!!! SAI,PORN AND MARIANA

SAI,PORN,MARIANA <SAI.@HAGA.SOLNA.SE> from t10o1p8.telia.com on Saturday, May 03, 1997 at 06:41:11

SA-WA-DEE-KAAA!!!!! WE FILL SORRY FOR YOU BUT YOU ARE SO BEUTIFUL,CINDY!!!GREETING TO EVERYBODY OF THAILAND THAT WE LOVE YOU AND WE LOVE THAILAND.WE LIVE IN SWDEN AND WE ARE THREE BEST FRIENDS,MY NAME IS -SAI AND MY TWO BEST FRIENDS IS PORN 13 AND MARIANA 13 AND ME 15 YEARS OLD.AT 29 MAY WE GONE GO TO THAILAND AND FOR THE KING FAMELYS,WE HOPE YOU SE US TOOO!!!!!SEND TO ME AND MY FRIENDS!!!SEE YOU IN THAILAND ,WE HOPE SO!!!!BYE BYE,WE WANT TO SAY,WE LOVE JONI AND LOUISE AND WE LOVE YOU TO CINDY,CINDY ITดS VERY BEUTI FUL NAME!!!BYE!!

SAI,PORN,MARIANA <SAI.@HAGA.SOLNA.SE> from t10o1p8.telia.com on Saturday, May 03, 1997 at 06:36:27

I'm disappointed that Thailand could not show the world how beautiful their genuine Thai women look like.

Diane <diane@lconn.com> from hst1-4.domi.net on Friday, May 02, 1997 at 11:01:09

In my opinion Thais are Thais whatever they live, so goes ahead Cindy if you think you are Thai and have self-confidence to be a good representative of Thais' woman in The Miss World Contest. Don't be too concerned about anything useless that will mak e you lose yourself. Good Luck...

<kuwst+@pitt.edu> from box6.labs.cis.pitt.edu on Sunday, April 27, 1997 at 04:41:52

Hi everyone wassup???I'm a 13 year old girl and I think thais are loosing their culture.They think that "luk krung" are the best.But when reality is that they should treat everyone equally,thais,halfs,whomever!True beauty comes from the inside it's not appearance that matters.I love Louis Scott(Raptor)not because he's half though,I just think he's so adorable and such a sweet guy,if anyone has info or can get some pix(pictures)of Louis for me,just email me and I'll give you my home address.Thanx!!!Chun -ruk-took-kon!!!Aneda and Louis forever....LOUIS LOUIS LOUIS!!!

Aneda Thongrivong <deester@mulberry.com> from ppp52.mulberry.com on Monday, April 21, 1997 at 03:15:15

Yo! Guys...Actully, she's such a beautiful...don't you think?....I think Thais 100% or half Thai doesn't matter......It's Thai!!!!!You know that!!!! Well,I wanna let you know that I'm real proud of her...I think she can bring the great news to us... Hey you guys....I warn you! Don't act like a baby...and give the stupid idiot comment ...Okay.? I love you....Cindy...:)

Banana Pae <ac33843.ac1.ac.ac.th> from cs205-7.student.washington.edu on Sunday, April 20, 1997 at 09:09:59

Yeah... I would like to comment on the fact that there's a huge trend amongst young thais wanting to look like a "loog krung", I think it's kinn da silly. If everyone defines beauty as being half "farang", then where does that leave us pure good looking thai guys?

Peter <pqk0132@is.nyu.edu> from proxy.nyu.edu on Saturday, April 05, 1997 at 01:43:56

Hi! My name is hong li jin. I am from American and right now I am 16 year old. I would like be friend with the miss Thailand world 1996, her name is cindy. Why I like her? Because she is beautiful more than other miss thailand. And also I wish I could be friend with her. Well I hope Miss Cindy heard from me. Miss cindy I know that I am live far away, but, if you don't mind you can write to me too."okay" Here is my addr Miss Cindy you are the prettyiest in Thailand, I hope you have fun in there. "okay" Good Bye ,waiting for you write.

hong li jin <no e-mail but write and sent to me. Thank you> from 206.8.254.131 on Tuesday, April 01, 1997 at 06:31:49

What a mess? be open minded please. I like the melting pot idea. Everyone is equal, regardless whatever it is. leopard

leopard <bp3@jhunix.hcf.jhu.edu> from jhu2032.res.jhu.edu on Monday, March 10, 1997 at 09:53:09

A nicely written article! It presented the issues and various points of view well and made no judgments. Good luck to Cindy! I am sure that she will represent Thailand well.

James <khunjames@aol.com> from www-aub.proxy.aol.com on Tuesday, February 25, 1997 at 01:17:31

This reminds me of the "African American" controversy: The term ignores that many races now live in Africa, not only those with dark skins. Likewise, during the Olympics people of many nationalities compete under different banners. It's not what's outside that counts.
David

David <dobenson@net2.intserv.com> from net89.intserv.com on Tuesday, February 18, 1997 at 11:52:50

I respectfully feel that the Thai people are into the 'EXPORTED THINGS'. I'll tell you about the last time I watched the 'Miss World contest' and I was looking for Miss Thailand but I couldn't see her because I couldn't reconise I had to look for the 'lable' on her to notist that she is the one that is representing our country Thailand. I don't understand is this the true beauty of a Thai women I do not understand! It seem to me that being a "loog-krung" is a new fasion statement in Thailand. For all , the next Miss Thailand world 'contest' I would hopefully have a 'REAL' Thai woman represent our country because it is embarassing having a 'THAI' beauty representative who doesn't look anything like Thai or Asian by anyway.

kob <sammuang@ global.co.za> from mdm-po2.pta-anx1.net.global.co.za on Saturday, January 25, 1997 at 18:08:16

She is beautiful but she doesn't look like Thai. But may be we shold give her a chance.Because she can speak Thai and she grew up here.

from t9o3p8.telia.com on Thursday, January 23, 1997 at 00:33:31

This is real funny! I had this same discussion with my students in Thailand in 1988 when "Bui" won the Miss Universe (or was it Miss. World?) contest. "Bui" is ethnically Thai but culturally American. Having been raised in California she couldn't even speak Thai! Despite all of this she represented Thailand in a beauty contest and won. We all had a good time debating what makes a person Thai and the con sensus of the students ideas are as follows: To be a Thai one MUST be ethnically Thai MUST speak the Thai language (though how much was debatable) MUST live in Thailand (though for how long is also debatable) MUST respect the Buddha, the King, and the Thai people

Scott McNeil <mcneil@pacbell.net> from ppp-206-170-3-18.okld03.pacbell.net on Wednesday, December 25, 1996 at 22:53:35

I do not have any things that involves with this miss thailand world 96 but she is not a thai lady .Thai lady should be like AREYAA SIRISOPA cause she has quality and beauty in her life. Who is this girl that will represent thailand?May be the miss thailand world contest committee got brain accident. I mean it.

ekachai chianuvati <ekachaic@mozart.inet.co.th> from haydn2.inet.co.th on Friday, December 20, 1996 at 23:32:14

I don't think it should matter what race she is. As long as she considers herself Thai, which she obviously does, then I have no problem with it. Thai-American women can enter up for Ms. America related pageants; so why not a white-Thai? I think Cindy is very beautiful! Thai people know their beautiful; contrary to what the author suggests. Thai people are just broadening their horizons when it comes to defining beauty. In America, I meet so many bigoted people that when I see a fellow Thai act this way, it truly makes my heart sad.

Damien Boonmee <d14u@earthlink.NET> from cust112.max8.raleigh.nc.ms.uu.net on Friday, December 20, 1996 at 00:35:35

Seem like you are a little pissed!! But Hey It is very cool, I like the concept of yours. It is the fact you said. Also the fact is we live in Western dominated society where everything in based on their perception. We lost our identity, I mean really lost Eastern and Thai identity. Where did it go ? Hell maybe. Our generation are f...ed up, right. Nobody care anymore about Thai this, Thai that, but Rap this, Rap that or Rock this, Rock that. I don't mind listen to those Western music, but at lease keep our music too, don't just let it die with old ages. Also, It is cool to learn another languages, but it doesn't mean that we have to be like them. Individual at least have his or her own identity since the birth, don't try to denied it, be satisfy and happy. We are all being brain washed, but we yet do not know it. Well, I have a lot more to say but I will save it for later because it will be neverending story. Anyway, I got your point man! That's a great speech you have. One more thing I want to say though, we, all Thai people, have a responsibility for whatever so happen to our country, our culture, and our government. We are the one who resposible to what happen to our nation. We are the one who responsible to all brothers and sisters who dwell in the lovely land of ours. We shall not denied the cause of the nation. We shall not betray our land. We are the next generation who shall take care of the cause and build the brightest future of our nation by our best effort. I hope we will, then we shall live as a happy nation. I thereby speak in the name of (TONN) "THAI ORGANIZATION OF NEO-NATIONALIST" OR "NEO-SIAMIST" JOINT US!!!!

Supasit TKK <Staptara@ix.netcom.com> from slc-ut4-15.ix.netcom.com on Monday, December 16, 1996 at 14:12:10

Good luck Cindy, you can to be WINNER, I hope you can go also to Miss World (Belgium)

Bruno <bruklein@euregionet> from cs1-ppp11.euregio.net on Saturday, November 30, 1996 at 21:49:07

Here's my 2 cents worth on the Miss Thailand. I think Cindy is qualified candidate to represent Thailand in the 1996 World Beauty Pegeant. Can I consider myself Thai, eventhough, I've only resided there briefly?

Tong <tyang@stthomas.edu> from 140.209.17.102 on Thursday, November 21, 1996 at 22:17:29

I think Cindy is representing a Thai Women in a positive way. She is THAI. In my opinion being Thai is of a inner pride not dealing with the physical features. If you are proud to be Thai you are Thai.

SANDY <SKRAJANGSRI@CSUPOMONA.EDU> from cpcm14.cpc.csupomona.edu on Tuesday, November 19, 1996 at 04:58:35

You are very very very very nice,cute,pretty and beautiful. hope you'll be the next Miss World.!!!!!Good Luck!!!!!!

Chuthin Thanasarnaksorn <op@usa.net> from nontri.ku.ac.th on Friday, November 15, 1996 at 19:27:40

If you not asian you can't be Miss Thailand? Thai is a nationality and not a race. Thailand has always been racialy diverse. Cindy is a good example of the racial diversity in Thailand. I have read a lot of passionate responsed, but I feel that this energy is wasted. There are a lot more pressing issues in Thailand like corruption in the government, pollution, conservation, and prostitution. Leave Cindy alone and lets see some discussion about some real problems.

Puc <PucHead31@aol.com> from ppp918.liberty.com on Wednesday, November 06, 1996 at 12:41:58

Well, I think Cindy deserves to be Miss Thailand becuz she is Thai. First of all, she grew up here and can speak the language fluently. I also think she can represent Thailand as it is. It's becuz she is THAI, like JP said. And this is a fact, as she h elped me with my thai homework around 2 years ago. She is thai, despite the fact that she doesn't look very thai. So, in my opinion, she has the right represent Thailand and she's doing a good job.

MaRiSa <u3611856@au.ac.th> from dial29.aunet.au.ac.th on Saturday, October 26, 1996 at 19:05:17

First, I'd like to compliment on the article well-written. It's about time ppl discuss about this. Beauty contest is just so materialistic nowadays...and every one's mind set on the definition of what beauty means in his/her society. When it comes to beauty...it is only skin deep...really. What is her personality like? What are her skills? I didn't watch the contest, so I don't really know. But if she has really great personality, well-liked, have a good heart, and many talents...they should overrule her looks. But one thing that's really important here for beauty contest...she will be representing her country in Miss World. It's ridiculous to be representing a country which you don't know how to speak the language. Language is culture. If you don't know the language you're missing a big part of the culture. Values too. If you don't know your culture's values... then a japanese or malaysian or indian or american or french can dye their hair in black and put on Thai dress and still represent Thailand. (I'm not saying about current Miss Thailand World here since I haven't seen or know anything about her).

J.Chen from upo3.tamu.edu on Thursday, October 17, 1996 at 22:09:01

Once again with the contentious problem that will never end up with the satisfactory answer as long as we, Thai people, never go back to our original feeling of being Thai. This is not the issue of racism or any other discriminations. Historically speaking, we can not say that all Thai people are literally typical Thai. Many Thais have the origin from China. In this day, people with different colors and origin can be seen throughout the country. Chinese Thai, Indian Thai, American Thai, Malaysian Thai, Cambodian Thai, etc. can exemplify the mixture of races in our country. Let's talk about what is behind the contest and deep Thai culture. Needless to say, the contest is the way for MONEY, MONEY, AND MONEY! Don't you know that our society is very deteriorated and deeply contaminated? Don't you know our nation is going to the disaster. Do you know anything about corruption, prostitution, child labour, poverty problem, politics, deep obsession in materialism, and so on? Thais don't know how fascinating our country was in the past. From the day of Siam to Thailand, what has been missing along the way. The drug problems, prostitution and thost sort of disastrous self-commitment have become the scandals denounced globally. Whatelse I can say. POWER AND MONEY TALK. Stop denying the vilification and the truth, Yes, Thailand is now the sex capital of the world. Yes, we have prostitutes in every square metre of country. Yes, the corruption is just great. And many yes, yes, yes and yes. I hope that everybody should do something for our country. Having gone through the real world out there, everybody should know how to educate and develop the rest of our people.

MARD <SUTHEERAWONG@ACL.NYIT.EDU> from sunp.nyit.edu on Friday, October 11, 1996 at 06:10:59

What a great article. My compliments to the writer for giving us a non-judgemental point of view on such a complicated issue. Race versus Nationality versus Citizenship....whoa ...thats a tough nut to crack. Again ..my compliments. But I have to a sk...Does a Beauty Contest really make a big impact on the general scheme of life???...I suppose it does if you are a teenager ...impressionable...lost and searching for an identity. But don't most of us eventually grow up and find that identity??? The world of today, much like those teenagers, is searching for an identity. The time is coming when no matter where you were born or where you live, you will find yourself surrounded by elements of all the worlds cultures. It is up to us to celebrate and a ccept our cultural differences as well as our many similarities. I am farang...but if was born a thai citizen...well then I'd be thai ...right??? Race and nationality have nothing in common any more. The world is a much smaller place than it used to be ...so we're gonna have to cross the barriers and get along. On America...my personal view is that its more a corporation than a country. We mass produce style and attitude, and market it like crazy. Too bad we can't mass produce happiness. That is up to the individual. So when it comes to America...Kids...don't believe the hype. MTV, Pepsi, Coke, and Nike are just products....not lifestyles. America is a very superficial place to live. We place so much emphasis on appearance and style that we lose our objectivity and are always ready to accept the latest "thing". It is truly a shame that other cultures with proud heritages are seeing the "westernization" of their youth. So what is the answer??? When you deny a youngster access to something, it only makes "whatever" so much more desirable in their eyes. If Thai kids want to dye their hair blonde and wear blue contact lenses...I say, let them. In a few years these kids will look back and see just how ridiculous it made them look. And maybe, t hey will have learned something. Maybe it will teach them to respect their own culture. Maybe not. The answers to these problem lie within each of us. Oh yeah...once again..don't believe the hype kiddees. Love and Hope to all......I'm gonna go eat so me Somtum now......TAIGERR

taigerr <jgumbo@camalott.com> from tex-138.camalott.com on Thursday, October 03, 1996 at 04:27:43

I just want to say that I absolutely agree with Ms. Surya Boonphadung. "No matter how hard we try to represent our country and no matter how successful that representation is, all of the attempts would go in vain and nonsense in a matter of hours after those foreigners land on Thailand if we and our country are not intrinsically what represented!" I understand that the contest committee feels the need of Ms. Thailand World who can speak English fluently. Then they think that our winning chance would be higher and that we have been embarrassed enough from our past representatives who could speak on ly Thai and mediocre English. This narrows down the committee's choices to only Thais who are mixed. However, the present Ms. Thailand World is an extreme case, which she is not even mixed, but don't forget that we have no unanimous good reasons to reject that she is not a righteous Ms. Thailand World. I think the real problem is not about the Ms. Thailand World herself but about why she is chosen. I have a few arguments about the pageant as follows: 1) Why should Thai people be embarassed if their representatives can not speak English well? Are we trying to show the world that our country is very international, and that Thai people can speak English with native-like accent while the fact is that fore igners have to speak English like they are speaking to babies while they are on the streets of Thailand!? Thailand is not an English spoken country, so there are no reasons to shame on. 2) Then people say if our Ms. Thailand World cannot speak English, her chance of wearing the crown is less than otherwise. I would say "Use translators! That's what they are for." Then if we lose some points just because of this little communication diffi culty, the Ms. World stage is no longer the justified competition and people throughout this world should just forget about it. After all, everybody knows that the whole story is just about companies doing business with humans' obsession of beauty. This i s not like the competition held by U.N. or for a nobel award! 3) Why shoud we care much about the Ms. World or Ms. Universe crowns? I don't mean I want Thailand to stay out of the world community, but I mean let's think "How could the world's beauty contests be really justified?" There is no real justice there because the committees do not represent the real demographic distribution of the world. Moreover, even if we can have that kind of committee, how could every committee member, which belongs to an ethnic group or a society , fully appreciate all of the beauty or values of all other groups. Unless, the world beauty pageants meet these two requirements, the whole thing sucks and is what ahoax! By the way, I would like you to read the first paragraph again and think about what is happenning with millions of foreign tourists coming to our country each year. I find thatmany foreign tourists leave Thailand with the feeling totally different from wh at they thought of Thailand before they arrived. They came and found that the country was not that fantastic as Thai people lack of environmentalists' minds, were ignorant of preserving their country's natural beauty, and were spoiling everything good the y had got. Many foreigners felt like they were such a fool. Recently, a couple of tourists just said that they had discovered decibels of a kingdom on their letter to Bangkok Post after they found themselves naive victims of travelling business. Should we stop promoting our country for about, let's say, 5 years and rebuild everything we have lost in the past decadesin order not to embarrass our beloved country every time one more foreigner steps on our country's land.

Somjate Suttawireesan <suttajay@wam.umd.edu> from sun04wor.wam.umd.edu on Wednesday, October 02, 1996 at 09:50:00

To say that this is an act of racism is not a shallow response. What this whole thing boils down to, is that the author isn't happy with seeing a white skinned person representing his country so he writes this article questioning her validity of being miss Thailand. It's all because of her skin color. If that isn't racism, then what is? She grew up in Thailand and speaks fluent Thai. She has personality traits of a Thai. To me, she is Thai.

JP Lipatapanlop <lipatapanlop.1@osu.edu> from ts24-5.homenet.ohio-state.edu on Monday, September 30, 1996 at 22:33:51

I think it`s depend on people who selected her to be Miss thailand world 1996.for now and past we had many Miss(S) to show the world how thai women beauty,but for contest`object we do for something?Miss thailand but speak thai like falang or know nothing about thailand.Miss thailand should speak thai cearly,know how to wai,or know more about thai.I think we have to change people`minds about beauty contest to show how thai women can show their country`culture in thaidance(rumthai), speakthai(poodthai),but not to show how she speak eng.clearly but can not speak thai.and how she live in thailand not aboard.

Nathapoom Sripetch <s0329@ed.nda.ac.jp> from www.nda.ac.jp on Monday, September 30, 1996 at 18:20:47

I have no idea, what the process of selecting Miss Thailand World is. Did they define the requirements of Miss Thailand and then granted the score according to the categories. Were there any unwritten or unspoken qualifying factors being imposed othe r than what they had defined? If the requirements were defined, are they clear enough to give the judges a guideline. Did the judges weight their score based on a few properties as suppose to the overall qualification. May be the first thing on the drawing board should be defending what the duties of Miss Thailand World are. We can then come up with the requirements which the judges should be judging on. If Miss Thailand must be able to communicate in a language oth er than Thai then so be it, put it in writing. Should it be categorized as a talent or as a separate category and how many points should it be relative to the overall score. Make no mistake, I have no problems with having a farang as Miss Thailand World. I just want the contest to give everyone an equal opportunity. If you think Miss Thailand World should only be Asian with black hair then so be it . Put it in writing and sh ow the world how racist and close minded we are. If you think you are anymore Thai than she is, you’re wrong.

Oat <oat@ifu.net> from ip26.ifu.net on Monday, September 30, 1996 at 14:07:21

If you read carefully, there is no question about she's Thai or not in legal sense. The question brought up is weather she really thinks she is. Unfortunately I don't know her, and we can't read her mind.

A few questions. What is the principle behind beauty contest, or any kind of competition for that matter? Why are there so many, basketball teams, phone company, nations? To set people apart. The fact is that we are set apart by differences. Within those differences there are common values which hold people into group (lets call it 'group value'). One group thinks they can do things better than the other. The contest's purpose is to see what|who is "better" judge by the values which holds the group together. (at the same time, set them apart) In this case, to judge who is more 'beautiful', based on a society's value of 'what is beautiful'

To quickly assume that the article is "racist" would also be a shallow analysis. While 'race' is a part of the variables, but it sure isn't the main point. The real question raised here is whether the 'group values' had change, and if this contest reflected upon that. Is what the judge decided, accurately represent what the society define as "Thai beauty" or not? Or is it reflecting a trend? Is Thai people changing? If we are changing, for better or for worse.

We can easily make anyone seems "biased" by drilling on any of the group values. The point is that,differences do exist, and we have to acknowledge it (not pretending to ignore). Not all discussion about race or skin color discussion is negative or "bad". What is bad to one is good to another, its all subjective. Every race is beautiful, according to whatever set of value it is being judge upon. While some tribes find facial tattoo and bodily decoration beautiful, but others may not. The article is talking about if that tribe changes its value DUE TO external influences. A crude example, NBA(People group; as to Thai girls) is a contest to see which team(comparing variables; which girl) is better in the game of basketball(constant; beauty). The question here asked if the basketball rules(group value; what is beautiful) is changing.

This is hardly aimed to put down Cindy or any race, try to see the picture a little deeper than just paint on the canvas.

Putt <putt@eskimo.com> from ts27-3.homenet.ohio-state.edu on Monday, September 30, 1996 at 11:04:20

I think that the posting of this article shows how un-worldly and racist Thai minds can be. In most parts of the world today, race is no longer an issue. I don't see why Thai people like the author of the article have to bring up something so racist. Cindy IS Thai. She may not have the physical traits of someone originally from South-East Asia, but she is Thai. I don't see why people aren't glad to have someone so attractive representing their country. They have something good and they're still complaining. Mr or Miss Broken Pencil better watch out when he/she leaves Thailand, because that kind of racist mentality can get people in trouble in many places of the world.

JP Lipatapanlop <lipatapanlop.1@osu.edu> from ts19-5.homenet.ohio-state.edu on Sunday, September 29, 1996 at 09:49:58

I think that to look only at the results of the pageant and conclude that it was influenced by westerners is overanalysis. If there were native Thais who were as articulate and as attractive as her, but was not crowned, I would agree with you. But if this is not the case and Cindy posesses all the makings of a Thai women except her looks then I think the judges were pretty brave to make this bold decision since it is expected that these kinds of questions will arise. To me, Miss Thailand World is pretty by all standards. Now whether or not she can represent Thailand better than the other contestant is another story. I don't think we can be the judge of that unless we were there in the selection process although it would be naive to think that the judges weren't affected by outside influences (such as sponsors). Anybody who has followed the pageant may be able to comment on the qualification of Miss Thailand World. Note: About Thai youths and American products, I think that it is mainly the result of peer pressure. If we can teach our kids the value of indivualism, they may be more immune to advertisements. On the other hand, we can make the Made-in-Thailand goods to be as expensive as American's product. That way it'll be cool to wear Thai. :)

Yu <yxj4@po.cwru.edu> from yxj4-ra.s-remote.cwru.edu on Saturday, September 28, 1996 at 06:22:38

You know...I've been here in the U.S. for over 13 years and not one person has ever told me to Westernize my appearance. If all these Americans can appreciate my looks why is it so difficult for Thai people to appreciate their own looks. What provokes them to idealize western society so much? It certainly isn't the farangs...they enjoy exotic beauties, it's the Thai people who try to mold themselves into what they believe the westerners view as being beautiful. People who have no pride can never be beautiful...no matter how much they believe they are. In one sense, I believe that's perhaps Cindy took advantage of the fact that Thais are attracted to western features...but most importantly, the Thai people have led themselves to think that as their true selves, they are not beautiful...that's the really ugly part of it all...

Racha Charernsook <rcharern@beta.loyno.edu> from ppp22.tcs.tulane.edu on Saturday, September 28, 1996 at 05:52:35

There are two ways, as you said, to look at this ... matter.. ahem*.... And..my opinion is ...MONEY>>bond< INFINITe changes....ahem*..understand or not..is your own interpretation.

Concern??! <jprath@juno.com> from 206.69.17.231 on Friday, September 27, 1996 at 05:20:34

Two Words : Western Imperialism.

Michael Fischer <michael@gisd.com> from noak-5.rust.net on Friday, September 27, 1996 at 00:06:20

As for the matter of Ms.Thailand looking caucasian, I don't think that we can put a judgement on her looks alone. As far as I'm concern, if she's proud enough of her native country to be representing that country(Thailand) in the beauty pageant let he r do it. I don't see why Thai people are making a big deal just because she doesn't look like a typical Thai. She was born in Thailand, that makes her a Thai citizen period. There is no argument about that. How a person looks is not nearly as important as who t he person is. I guess these people are looking out for the country's image. Image is just a front. Oh sure, we're known for our beautiful Hotels, churches(wat), and our smiles. But most Foreigner doesn't know about our traffic, pollution, and the people aren't really that nice. So I ask you, what image do we have if we don't show the whole country as an image instead of just showing the best part of the country. People becomes fascinated with Thailand and they are gonna want to come and see the country. But when they leave, th ey'll have a totally different impression. That's speaking from a personal point of view. So in closing, I don't think anyone is in any position to say that whether the current Ms.Thailand is really a Thai or not.

Surya Boonphadung <sxb6113@megahertz.njit.edu> from pm5-2.dialup.webspan.net on Thursday, September 26, 1996 at 23:12:19