Asia Social Issues

Role and Status of Maechi and Maibi in the Religion of Thai (Thailand) and Meitei (Manipur)

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The research question of this article is: “Is there gender equality in the Meitei and Thai societies?” This article aims to discuss: 1) the role and status of Maechi in Buddhism (Thailand); 2) the role and status of Maibi in Sanamahism (Manipur); and 3) the similarities and differences of Maechi and Maibi in terms of their roles and status. This comparative study of Maechi and Maibi is important because it can be valuable for gender studies, roles, inequality, culture, religion, power, leadership, and decision-making. The study employed a rapid literature review, which involved searching and reviewing historical accounts and literature available online and in print, as well as participant observation of the daily activities of these religions. Results revealed remarkable differences between Maechi and Maibi, such as the restriction of Maechi in the decision-making process and the power hierarchy of the Thai Buddhist religious organization council, while the Maibi acts as the priestess and are the core ritual functionaries in the Meitei religious rituals and ceremonies. The study concluded that despite the Maibi’s superordinate position in the traditional Meitei religion, there is gender inequality in other spheres of the Meitei society such as in the rights to property inheritance and having a son’s preference. Religious beliefs of both religions have played a dominant role in defining women’s roles and status. Gender roles and status, therefore, are socially constructed based on socio-cultural and religious norms.

Development of Programs Promoting Active Ageing among the Older Adults

Wannakorn Ponpichai, Jettana Inyarat, Juntra Uieng, Amornrat Angachariya — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The researchers recognize the significance of developing older adult individuals, as projections indicate they will become the majority of the population shortly. The study aimed to develop and evaluate an active aging program for older adults, comparing outcomes between participants who engaged in the program and those who did not. The sample consisted of older adult individuals from southern Thailand, with a control group of 40 people and an experimental group of 40. The instruments were an active aging assessment and an active aging promotion training program. Data analysis, including percentage, means, standard deviation, independent samples test, and paired samples t-test. For qualitative study, they collected satisfaction data through purposive sampling interviews with participants who had completed the program. The data were analyzed using a comparative analysis approach. The results showed that the average active aging level of the experimental group increased from a relatively low to a relatively high level after participating in the active aging promotion program. Furthermore, a statistically significant difference was found at the 0.05 level when comparing the pre-and post-training active aging scores. After three months of the experiment, the control and experimental groups exhibited significantly different average scores. The Active Ageing program, grounded in the World Health Organization’s framework, has significantly enhanced various aspects of older adults’ well-being. These findings initiatives are to be adapted and expanded in future research and practice to address the diverse needs of the aging population.

The Characteristics of the 21st Century Learners of Walailak University Graduates in the Academic Year 2020-2021

Sasirat Prasatkaew — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

A study of “The Characteristics of the 21^st century Learners of Walailak University Graduates in The Academic Year 2020-2021” was aimed to 1) Analyse expectations and perceptions of the characteristics of learners in the 21^st century, 2) Analyse the factors that affect to the characteristics of graduates in the 21^st century. We found that: graduates had high expectations of the characteristics of learners in the 21^st century, both in Knowledge skills (3R), Soft skills (8C) and overall. However, they had a perception of the characteristics of 21^st century learners in Knowledge skills (3R) and overall at a high level. Meanwhile, they perceive soft skills (8C) to be very high. However, they had a very high perception of 4 aspects arranged in order as follows: 1) Collaboration, Teamwork, and Leadership, 2) Compassion, 3) Cross-cultural, and 4) Career and learning self-reliance. It was found that graduates have perception of the characteristics of learners in the 21^st century in 4 aspects at a high level arranged in order as follows: 1) Communication, Information, and Media Literacy, 2) Computing and ICT literacy 3) Critical thinking and Problem-solving and 4) Creativity and Innovation. The perception of factors affect to the characteristics of learners in the 21^st century of graduates with different major groups affected their perception of the characteristics of learners in the 21^st century in the different Knowledge skills (3R). The five predictive variables together accounted for 63.9% of the characteristics of 21^st century learners, including both knowledge skills and soft skills.

Voices of Change: Single-Teacher Primary Schools Perspectives on Multigrade Pedagogy in Balochistan

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

Multigrade pedagogy, which involves instructing students from multiple grade levels in a single classroom, presents both unique challenges and opportunities for educators. This qualitative study explores the perceptions, strategies, and challenges faced by single-teacher primary school educators in Balochistan, Pakistan, within multigrade teaching environments. Grounded in Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, the study employs an ethnographic approach to gain in-depth insights into teachers’ lived experiences. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 10 experienced single-teacher primary school instructors, complemented by classroom observations to capture teaching methods and classroom dynamics.

The findings reveal that teachers face significant challenges, including classroom management difficulties, resource limitations, and the need to address diverse learning needs. However, they demonstrate resilience and adaptability, employing collaborative learning, differentiated instruction, and innovative resource utilization to enhance student learning. Despite these challenges, multigrade pedagogy fosters student independence, a strong sense of community, and instructional flexibility. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted teacher training, policy support, and improved resources to enhance the effectiveness of multigrade teaching. Additionally, it suggests avenues for future research, particularly on student learning outcomes and best practices in resource-constrained educational settings.

Tuberculosis, Malaria, and HIV/AIDS: An Analysis of Biomedical, Social, Cultural, and Economic Impacts in the Global Context and Thailand’s Southern Border Areas

Anlaya Smuseneto, Ping Wichaidit — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to analyze the impact of tuberculosis, malaria, and HIV/AIDS infections within the global context and in the southern border provinces of Thailand. A systematic literature review was conducted on research published from 2006 to 2024, supplemented by qualitative research through non-participant observation in a community within the region. The findings revealed that these diseases are complex and intertwined with structural factors such as poverty, lack of resources, and unequal access to healthcare. Furthermore, these infectious diseases reflect the concept of “diseases as products,” diminishing labor potential and economic productivity. They are also referred to as “diseases of poverty,” adversely affecting the poor in terms of treatment and prevention, and as “diseases of reproduction,” reinforcing cycles of vulnerability and inequality in similar communities worldwide. This situation was also observed in the southern border regions of Thailand where multicultural dynamics present unique challenges and opportunities in educational management. The study highlighted the interconnected impacts of these three infectious diseases across biological, medical, political, economic, and social dimensions. Therefore, addressing these issues required consideration at both the global level and in the southern border provinces of Thailand, promoting international cooperation and developing health policies that account for cultural, religious, and social contexts to ensure sustainable long-term disease prevention and control.

Examining Predictors of Preventive Behaviors for PM2.5 Exposure Among Upper Secondary Students in Bangkok: An Application of the Socio-Ecological Model

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study aimed to assess preventive behaviors for particulate matter (PM2.5) exposure and examined the factors influencing these behaviors among upper secondary school students in Bangkok. A descriptive research design was employed, involving 450 students selected through multi-stage random sampling. The researchers collected data using researcher-developed questionnaires during August-September 2024 and analyzed them using Chi-square, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression analysis. The results showed that students demonstrated moderate preventive behaviors toward PM2.5 (M = 27.34, S.D. = 9.08). Individual factors showed no significant relationship with preventive behaviors, while interpersonal, institutional, community, and public policy factors played key roles in shaping students’ preventive behaviors. Key influences included family support (r = 0.505), peer support (r = 0.578), teacher support (r = 0.459), perceived school environment (r = 0.214), and perceptions of school and community activities in addressing PM2.5 (r = 0.391 to r = 0.415). Multiple regression identified five significant predictors: peer support, family support, perceived Ministry of Education policies, school safety measures, and perceived school environment (β = 0.349 to 0.079, p < 0.05). This study underscores the importance of socio-environmental factors in shaping preventive behaviors, emphasizing the need for coordinated action among families, educators, and policymakers to reduce PM2.5 exposure among students.

State, Market, and Globalization: Strategic Development of Phitsanulok Province along the Luang Prabang-Indochina-Mawlamyine Economic Corridor (LIMEC)

Wasan Pounpunwong — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This research examines the strategic advancement of Phitsanulok Province within the Luang Prabang-Indochina-Mawlamyine Economic Corridor (LIMEC), emphasizing the state’s changing role in the context of globalization. The study examines the policy frameworks, institutional mechanisms, and socio-political factors that affect the province’s capacity to establish itself as a regional hub. The study utilized a qualitative case study approach, gathering data through documentary analysis and conducting in-depth interviews with eight key informants from the provincial government, commerce, and civil society sectors. The researchers developed analytical framework based on the “Market State” theory and globalization, incorporating elements of state power and capitalist transformation.

The findings indicate that Phitsanulok has notable geography, infrastructure, and cultural heritage strengths. However, it encounters structural challenges, including the absence of a designated coordinating agency, inconsistent support from the central government, and limited public awareness regarding LIMEC’s strategic role. Fragmentation in policy and institutions hinders regional integration, even with a consensus on developmental objectives. The research highlights the necessity for strategic reforms, such as promoting LIMEC to national policy status, creating a permanent provincial coordination center, and instituting formal PPP mechanisms.

The study’s focus on a single case may limit its applicability to broader contexts. It offers important insights for policy-making at the subnational level. Future efforts should enhance inter-agency coordination, foster cross-border collaboration, and promote inclusive stakeholder engagement to guarantee the province’s sustainable integration into the regional economic framework.

From Watwat to Betel Nut: How are Cordillerans Portrayed in Local Memes?

Iveeh C. Amparo, Lory Jane E. Luban , Joseph B. Quinto — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The growth of social media has enabled users to quickly generate memes on digital platforms. Even though users design memes to express ideas and identities, researchers need to give more attention to the evident gap in how Cordillerans are portrayed through memes on social media. Therefore, this research aims to fill this gap by specifically examining how the Taga Lakandula Facebook Page portrays Cordillerans through memes. Using netnography, the researchers had to immerse themselves in the virtual world for two months, repeatedly reading and analyzing the memes, which included constant correspondence with the person in charge of the Facebook page. The researchers adopted stages of content analysis and sought help from an external expert in the field who reviewed the memes vis-à-vis the findings to see if they were plausible and accurate. The findings revealed that the memes portray Cordillerans as drunkards, betel nut users, proud, gamblers, shy, ‘watwat’ eaters, and observants. Overall, this research adds to the literature on Cordilleran portrayals and Internet memes and recommends future research trajectories.

Joss Sticks and Skyscrapers: Chinese Deity Worship in Urban Bangkok

Xi Tang — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

This study examines how urbanization in Bangkok influences Chinese deity worship and how these religious practices shape the city’s urban development. It argues that urban factors such as changing landscapes, the boom and crisis of the economy, the growth of the Thai middle class, and an increase in migrant workers are reshaping worship practices and their significance. Simultaneously, Chinese deity worship contributes to Bangkok’s urbanization.

Using a qualitative approach, the study analyzes written works, local media, and online content, including public interviews, to trace changes in Chinese shrines and their activities. Direct observation further explores ritual performances and community interactions within these sacred spaces. By investigating the interplay between urbanization and religious faith, this study contributes to both religious and urban studies. It highlights how urban redevelopment affects Chinese deity worship while illustrating the role of religious practices in shaping everyday urban life. Understanding these dynamics provides insight into the broader impact of urbanization on spiritual traditions in urban Bangkok.

Post-COVID-19 Behavioral Determinants of Unmanned Aircraft Adoption in Bangkok’s Urban Mobility

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

In recent years, public transportation has evolved to offer faster and more efficient options. One emerging concept is using unmanned aircraft for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL-UAs) to enhance urban mobility. Although not yet implemented in Thailand or abroad, this study examines factors influencing the decision to use unmanned aircraft for public transportation in the Bangkok Metropolitan Region. Guided by the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT), the researchers collected data from 1,200 participants through face-to-face questionnaires and analyzed the responses using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). The results indicate a strong willingness among participants to use unmanned aircraft and share flights if such options become available. Gender differences significantly influenced decision-making, while age showed no overall impact, though respondents under 30 expressed the most positive attitudes. SEM analysis identified achievement, social influence, convenience, and performance as key factors, with weights of 0.325, 0.217, 0.193, and 0.143. These findings provide valuable insights for developing unmanned aircraft as a mass transit option, with implications for the public and private sectors. Educational institutions may also use these results to guide curriculum development in transportation and unmanned aircraft systems.

Homelessness and Socioeconomic Conditions

Arunee Punyasavatsut — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increase in homelessness in numerous countries, including Thailand. The economic downturn, particularly the rise in unemployment, largely caused this increase. This study examines the factors influencing homelessness by estimating an equation identifying the determinants of homelessness rates. The independent variables considered in the analysis include the unemployment rate, minimum wage, average household expenses, land appraisal price, average years of schooling, mean O-NET test scores, the proportion of the elderly population, the proportion of patients with schizophrenia, the proportion of people with disabilities, the proportion of COVID-19 patients, the proportion of patients with alcoholism, urbanization rate, maximum temperature, and precipitation levels. The study utilizes cross-sectional data from various provinces in Thailand for the year 2022. The regression analysis, conducted using the ordinary least squares (OLS) method, reveals that increases in average household expenses, the proportion of the elderly population, and the proportion of COVID-19 patients are positively associated with higher homelessness rates. Conversely, a rise in the average years of schooling, indicative of a higher overall education level, is correlated with a decline in homelessness rates. The research results suggest that policymakers should implement plans for enhanced support systems for individuals facing challenges during crises such as infectious disease outbreaks.

Impact of Entertainment Interaction in Live E-commerce on the Impulsive Consumption Behavior of Consumers of Well-known Clothing Brands: A Study of Zhejiang Province, China

Chenshun Sun, Chanchai Bunchapattanasakda — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0700

In recent years, live streaming e-commerce has emerged rapidly as a new consumption model, especially in large cities such as Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China. The main purpose of this study is to explore the impact mechanism of live streaming interaction on impulse buying intention, especially the mediating and moderating role of consumer pleasure and user experience in this process. This study used a questionnaire survey method to distribute 500 questionnaires, and finally collected 268 valid questionnaires. The structural equation model (SEM) was used to analyze the data. The results showed that live streaming interaction significantly affected consumers’ impulse buying intention and mediated through consumer pleasure. At the same time, user experience played a significant moderating role in the relationship between consumer pleasure and impulse buying intention. When the user experience level was high, consumer pleasure had a stronger influence on impulse buying intention. This study not only provides theoretical support for further understanding of consumer behavior in live streaming e-commerce, but also puts forward practical suggestions for the design and marketing strategies of future live streaming e-commerce platforms.