Privy Councillor General Surayud Chulanont yesterday encouraged youngsters to pronounce the "Ror Rua" and "Lor Ling" alphabets correctly, as well as to learn the origins and evolution of the language, especially in relation to the "Chor Kachur" letter that is only seen in licence plates nowadays.
His made these comments yesterday at the Thai Language awards ceremony at the Thailand Cultural Centre, during which 41 people were honoured for their use of the language, including PM Abhisit Vejjajiva and Phra Maha Wutthichai Wachirametee.
Phra Maha Wutthichai used this opportunity to urge all Thais, especially leaders and media, to use proper language and drew their attention to three words: "prongdong" or peaceful coexistence; "hai aphai" or be forgiving; and "mai hen kae tua" or not being selfish. Japanese monk Phra Mitsuo Gavesako, abbot of Kanchanaburi's Wat Pa Sunantawararam, who was one of the nonnative speakers awarded, said he was delighted to receive this honour because throughout his 36 years in Thailand he had tried to learn and use the language by giving sermons and studying dharma. He also urged the country's leaders and politicians to use the language correctly so they can set a good example to youth.