Preserving ethnic writing of Thai Ethnic people

(Cinet)- Culture of Thai ethnic people in the northwest Viet Nam is marked by their own script but few remember how to write it.

Considered a “live cultural museum” of the area, 81-year-old Lo Van Bien in Nghia Lo Town in the northern province of Yen Bai, has devoted over half of his life to study, preserve and develop the cultures of the Thai. Also, in his stilt house decorated in the tradition of the Black Thai people, he told me about his predestined affinity and concerns about the Thai culture.

The ancient Thai script originated from ancient Chinese, which was introduced into Viet Nam in the 9th century. Time and changes in local customs have led to the changes in the script. Therefore, preserving the Thai script and teaching it to younger generations is not only my passion but also my responsibility to the national culture. I will keep teaching and telling beautiful stories about my people and land as long as I breathe.

The Thai are among the few ethnic groups in Viet Nam who have their own script. The works of high humane value that teach the coming generations how to become useful citizens, however, are mostly written in Thai that few people can read. Therefore, as a young boy, Bien wanted to get hold of his people’s script as soon as possible in order to be able to read such precious treasures. All the villagers could speak the Thai language at that time, but few knew how to write it, except the witch-doctors.

Bien’s classroom received VND5 million (US$238) financial support, so each student was given the incentive of VND20,000 ($1) for every night of lessons and a visit to the northern province of Quang Ninh after finishing the course.

After the success of his first course, Bien’s classroom continued to receive support from Ford Fund, which was sufficient for him to expand his class to 42 students. The first graduates of his class have since become the backbone of the club of the ancient Thai script.

The club, headed by teacher Bien, set up its own bookshelf, collecting documents, ancient stories, children’s songs and folk songs, which would be read and performed at every gathering. It also offers presents to the collectors of valuable ancient Thai scripts to attract the participation of more members.

Preserving ethnic writing of Thai Ethnic people Related image(s)