IFD - Knowing about Thai culture

The popular Thai greeting Sawatdee Krap (which means "Hello") is usually said by

• Males

• Females

Answer explanation

Males say "Sawatdee Krap" while females say "Sawatdee Kaa"

When addressing their peers, Thais will add a "chan" in front of the person's last name.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

"Chan" is actually what the Japanese add behind a child's name eg. Sumiko-chan

"Khun" is added in front of the Thai person's name. It stands for "Mr / Miss"

When greeting, Thais will press their hands together, with the fingertips touching their nose, and bow. This gesture is known as the "wai". It is an indication of

• subordination

• godly presence

• respect

It is considered rude to touch one's head in Thai culture because it is the most sacred part of the human body

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Touching the head is considered rude. This is especially so for young children whose spirits are considered weak. it is believed that the child could fall sick as a result.

What is "Chut Thai"?

• Thai food

• Thai culture

• Thai ethnic outfit

• Thai song

Answer explanation

Usually worn during wedding ceremonies, religious events and festivals.

Songkran, also known as the water festival, is to celebrate

• the start of summer

• the start of the Buddhist new year

• the king's birthday

• the start of the rice harvest

Answer explanation

The splashing of water symbolises purification. It is to cleanse one of bad luck or grievances and bless one with fortune and happiness, for the new year

Loy Krathong, the festival of light, is held annually during the month of

• September

• October

• November

• December

Answer explanation

Loy Krathong is a festival to thank the water goddess for her gift of water, and to express apologies for polluting it.

During Loy Krathong, light in the form of lanterns/ floating candles, is released into the sky and water. What is the symbolism behind releasing these?

• The floating away of bad luck and grudges

• The floating away of sickness

• The floating away of natural disasters

• The floating away of pests

The Ruean Ton is one of Thai's traditional outfit. It is usually worn for

• Weddings

• Religious events

• Non-official events

• Award ceremonies

The Chakkri is another form of Thai traditional costume. It symbolises formality and elegance. It is usually accessorised with

• A crown

• A belt

• A headscarf

• Gold jewellery

Answer explanation

Gold jewellery is to elaborate on the grandeur of the event that the person is attending.