Thailand and Brunei Darussalam Overview

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to Thailand and Brunei Darussalam, focusing on cultural, historical, and social aspects.

Thailand National Flag

Never officially colonized by European countries, became a buffer zone for France.

Its national flag, the 'Trairanga', consists of three horizontal stripes: red at the top, white in the middle, and blue at the bottom, symbolizing the land, religion, and monarchy.

Chakri Dynasty

The current ruling royal house in Thailand, established in 1782.

King Rama VII

The last absolute monarch of Thailand who transitioned the country to a constitutional monarchy.

Bangkok

The capital city of Thailand with the longest place name in the world.

Thai Monk

All young men in Thailand, including kings, enter monkhood, impacting their spiritual growth.

Muay Thai

Known as 'The Art of Eight Limbs', it is the national sport of Thailand.

Phra Khut Phra

The national emblem of Thailand, depicting a mythical creature known as Garuda.

Floating market

A traditional market in Bangkok where goods are sold from boats.

Loy Krathong

An annual celebration where lotus-shaped rafts are floated on water to symbolize letting go of anger.

Khom Loi

Floating lanterns launched into the air to symbolize the end of bad luck.

Huay Pu Keng

A village in northern Thailand inhabited by the Kayan hill tribe, known for neck rings.

Kathoey

Loosely translated as 'lady boy', referring to transgender women or effeminate gay males in Thailand.

Brunei Darussalam

A country meaning 'abode of peace', known for its high standard of living.

Awang Alak Betatar

The legendary founder of Brunei who named the country after exclaiming 'Baru nah'.

Water District

An area in Brunei where houses are built on stilts above water.

Sharia Law

Conservative laws enacted in Brunei that include severe punishments for adultery and homosexuality.

Istana Nuran Iman

The world's largest residential palace located in Brunei.

National Crest of Brunei

The emblem on Brunei's flag symbolizing justice, tranquility, and peace.

Halal Branding Scheme

Brunei's initiative to create a global halal brand for Muslim consumers.

Malay Civilization

Derived from the Old Malay World, influencing Brunei's culture across historical periods.

Human Development Index

Brunei had the highest index in the Islamic world as of 2009.

Royal Umbrella

Part of Brunei's National Crest, symbolizes royalty and authority.

Freedom of Religion in Brunei

The government censors other religions, only officially allowing Islam.

Car Ownership in Brunei

Brunei has one of the highest car ownership rates due to low petrol prices.

Kampong Ayer

A water village in Brunei, known for its houses on stilts.

Kayan Hill Tribe

An ethnic group in northern Thailand known for traditional neck rings.

Garuda

A mythical creature that serves as the national emblem of Thailand.

Loy Krathong Festival

A festival where people float decorated rafts to release grievances.

Youth in Monastic Life

Young Thai men enter monkhood to focus on spiritual and cleansing practices.

King of Thailand

A symbol of unity in Thai culture who intervenes during conflicts.

Cultural Influence in Brunei

Brunei's culture was shaped by four dominating periods: Animism, Hinduism, Islam, and the West.

Economic Status of Brunei

Known for having no foreign debt and providing free healthcare and education.

LGBT Rights in Brunei

Homosexuality is illegal; LGBTQ+ individuals often meet in secret.