OPINION

Vaccine foolery

Re: "Questions over Chinese vaccine", (BP, 14 Jan). I've maintained for a long time that the reason the Thai government preferred the SinoVac Biotec Chinese vaccine was that it came cheaper than the Western vaccines. Malaysia is now also questioning the effectiveness.

This government under Prime Minister Gen Prayut Chan-o-cha's has its nose so deeply imbedded in the Chinese government's backside that it is difficult to be practical and go for what's best for the population.

A Western vaccine costs a bit more but is also more effective. Penny wise, pound foolish as we are taught, (or should be taught as children).

Re: "Happiness gap in the Land of Smiles", (Opinion, 13 Jan).

I was about to write a boring letter concerning idiosyncrasies in this well-meaning article when I thought, what's the bloody point? Things will never change. Have Thais ever been happy according to the ridiculous parameters of the poll and the unending stresses that most have endured for generations? Thailand may be known as The Land of Smiles but not all of these smiles (13 versions) are indicative of happiness.

A reluctant Edmund Burke would likely flee the scene as policymakers here, inter alia, are usually concerned about their own welfare and don't give a hoot about the great unwashed unless there is something to be gained. The jackboot works very effectively in such circumstances.

In my opinion, Felix Qui has stepped over his mark by claiming that a survey is proof of the pudding for happiness (and I assume for anything else, including doom and gloom). Any survey, as Mr Qui should realise, is nothing more than a statement of what the takers are trying to prove. No one should ever take the results of any survey for granted without verifying first the truth or other that the survey is showing. Surveys initially predicted a great four years under President Trump. Look at how accurate the surveys were. Laugh, laugh, laugh. So much for surveys.

What are the industries hard hit economically in Thailand? Airlines, hotels and the food service industry! How can we help all three in one move? Bring in senior citizens from wealthy countries.

Unlike Asia, where the family takes care of their elders at home, seniors in North America are farmed out to senior care homes. These places are not cheap. Imagine if you will, flying them by the hundreds and thousands to Thailand.

Airline problem -- solved! House them in all the empty hotel rooms. Hotel vacancy problem -- solved! Feed and care for their needs. Restaurant and hospital problem -- solved! And let's not forget about chauffeuring them around.

A bit of the right promotion and you may find a ready clientele. The British movie The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel has already shown you a blueprint.

Thailand brags about its low infection rate so that would appeal to seniors with money and looking for a safe place to run out the clock.