Strong language

Chinese is becoming ever more popular among Thai students

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Since China established a presence in Thailand, local dialects, especially Teochew, have given way to Mandarin, which is on course to be the language of the future, according to an academic.

“Local dialects are still used by grandparents and niche groups. Of course, they hold cultural and social values. However, Mandarin is growing into a common language for the general population,” said Asst Prof Numchoke Budnampetch, head of the Chinese Major at Satit Prasarnmit Demonstration School (Secondary), in an interview to mark the 50^th anniversary of Thai-Chinese bilateral ties on June 17.

“In Thailand, Chinese is the second most popular foreign language, which is now trying to overtake English.”

Asst Prof Numchoke explained that the evolution of Chinese in Thailand can be divided into three phases. In the past, Chinese immigrants carried with them local dialects and spread across the country, with Teochew predominating other regional variations, such as Hokkien and Hainanese. Still, they were limited to their own groups. In addition, the Siamese government imposed tougher restrictions on Chinese schools after World War II.

“It was feared that they would spread communism. Grandparents told me they had to sneak into underground classes,” he said.