Tiger Muay Thai posted two videos online on Saturday (May 16), calling on their fellow countrymen to respect local culture, laws and polite behaviour.
One of the videos is in spoken Russian language, with subtitles in Thai and English, saying: “Thailand is not just a holiday destination. It is home to millions of families. People here live, work, raise their families and respect their traditions. And that deserves respect.
“But more and more often we see aggression, conflicts with locals, dangerous driving. Real strength is not aggression. Real strength is control, discipline and respect.
“Respect the local laws. Respect the culture. Respect the people around you. And if you want to test your strength, don’t do it on the street or in a bar, come to the gym. Here we can meet fairly.”
The second video is in spoken English, with Russian and Thai subtitles.The speaker in the second video says: “Guys, when you come to Thailand, remember you’re a guest here. Enjoy the country, enjoy the people, enjoy the culture, but do it with respect. Don’t bring the problem. The people live in peace. Don’t fight on the street. Don’t drive like rules don’t matter.
“If you want to prove how strong you are, come to the gym, step on this mat, put your gloves on. Here, strength means discipline. Respect means power. Leave good memories. is not problems. Respect country, respect people, respect yourself.”
The videos follow the Israeli Embassy in Thailand issuing a warning to its citizens travelling in Phuket and elsewhere in Thailand following a renewed crackdown on foreigners in Phuket violating Thai law ordered by Phuket Governor Nirat Pongsitthaworn.
The warning came after Phuket officials intensified efforts to tackle issues involving tourists and foreign residents, including traffic offences, illegal employment and visa overstays, as part of a broader campaign aimed at promoting “high-quality and sustainable tourism” on the island.
According to officials, the governor earlier this month convened a meeting with security agencies, police, immigration officers and representatives of foreign embassies to discuss measures for controlling behaviour that causes disturbance or breaks Thai law.