OPINION

From tears to action

Re: "20 kids, 3 teachers perish in bus blaze", (BP, Oct 2).

In memory of the 20 kindergarteners and three teachers who met a fiery road death, we must take decisive steps to prevent a re-occurrence. We must not take the knee-jerk approach of seeking scapegoats and moving on.

For example, did their bus meet all safety standards? Why did it have 11 gas cylinders installed when it was licensed to carry six? Did the Land Transport Department inspection not test the emergency exit? Could windows be easily removed in an emergency? Were there enough fire extinguishers of adequate size available? How were the driver and his assistant trained in vehicle safety, including handling of emergencies and evacuation of passengers? Was their training up-to-date? Kindergarteners cannot care for themselves; why weren't more adults in charge?

PM Ung Ing was moved to tears when viewing the victims. Her grief should give her the political will to fix things once and for all.

Liquor fears fall flat

Re: "House rejects People's Party liquor liberalisation bill", (BP, Oct 3).

The government's Chief Whip, Wisut Chainarun, has claimed that "If every household is allowed to make liquor without legal control and that leads to death, the consequence will be severe." I take his point, but does he really have such little faith in the Thai people's sense of responsibility and self-control? Surely not!

PM's Doha detour

Re: "Can Thailand lead reboot of Asian Cooperation Dialogue?", (Opinion, Sept 24).

There's only one reason why Prime Minister Paetongtarn forwent delivering her maiden international speech at last week's UN General Assembly meeting, the most important annual meeting of world leaders.

Dad

Yes, he needed her to go to Doha to speak at the 3rd Asian Cooperation Dialogue summit and remind everyone that he co-founded this nearly moribund talkfest in Cha-am way back in 2002.

Asean unity tested

Re: "Key issues to watch at Asean summits", (Opinion, Oct 1).

There is no doubt that the current Middle East crisis will affect Asean solidarity and its citizens in unprecedented ways. In this context, it is crucial to recall that international solidarity is a cornerstone of modern international law and human rights law.

The value of solidarity, with its significant role, should not be narrowly interpreted as merely international aid, charity, or humanitarian assistance. It should be viewed as a broader principle encompassing sustainability in international relations -- particularly in the economic sphere -- along with the peaceful coexistence of all nations, equal partnerships, and the equitable sharing of both benefits and responsibilities.

A canine salute

Re: "Canine conundrum", (PostBag, Sept 30).

On behalf of Snoopy, Odie, Marmaduke, Pluto, 101 Dalmatians, Golly, et al, I lift my leg on Enemy of Dogs.

CONTACT: BANGKOK POST BUILDING