Thailand has been void of a local COVID-19 case for over a month, marking a successful stride against the global pandemic and becoming a paradigm for even the major world powers.
The widespread coronavirus has initially wreaked havoc in China and has spread rapidly to neighboring countries in Southeast Asia. Despite high polls of death rates and confirmed cases in nations such as Korea, Vietnam, Myanmar, and Malaysia, Thailand was able to stay under control during this global pandemic due to stringent measures and emergency protocols.
Now, schools are reopening and social distancing is eased as numbers dwindled down significantly. Masks are still required but citizens are slowly adjusting to post-COVID lifestyles as adults are returning to work and dining outside becomes more normalized.
Thailand was able to successfully combat the COVID-19 virus because once high numbers of infections and death rates were projected, Prime Minister Prayut Chan-ocha called for the emergency plan to impose rigid lockdown measures. The limitation of social activity and precautions against going outdoors frequently halted the rapid proliferation of the virus in Thailand, especially in cities such as Bangkok.
Another reason why Thailand was successful was because of the universal adoption of mask-wearing and strong patriotic duty associated with social distancing, which in turn facilitated the process of mitigating the virus. Thailand emphasized nationalism and unity during this time of uncertainty and focused more so on self-interest to combat the devastation.
Due to Thailand’s success with the coronavirus, the nation saw the rise of spirituality and faith, especially pertaining to Christianity and Buddhism. Many people accredited the success to the divinity and reaffirmed people’s faith in religion once again.
Lastly, the immediate effect of the pandemic was the emphasis on minimalism. People avoided unnecessary social gatherings and limited opulent purchases, driving their attention to communal well beings and necessary amenities.
