Kenapa Banyak Transgender Di Thailand? | Learning By Googling #27

Summary

The video explores the history and culture of transgender people, particularly 'ladyboys,' in Thailand. It highlights how these individuals are often accepted in society but still face legal challenges, such as the inability to change their gender on official documents. The video delves into the origins of the term 'ladyboy' and its connection to Buddhist beliefs in reincarnation. It also touches on the personal experiences of transgender people, the discrimination they face, and the increasing commercial visibility of ladyboys in Thailand. Despite societal acceptance in cities like Bangkok, discrimination still exists in rural areas.

Takeaways

• 😀 Transgender people in Thailand are commonly referred to as 'ladyboys,' 'hatie,' or 'tuti-tuti,' with 'ladyboy' being an internationally recognized term.
• 😀 In Thailand, transgender individuals historically struggled with social acceptance, but this has improved over time, especially in large cities like Bangkok.
• 😀 Thai culture views transgender people as individuals who may have been 'punished' for past-life wrongdoings, as part of the Buddhist belief in reincarnation.
• 😀 Transgender individuals in Thailand may face challenges in rural areas, where they still experience discrimination and bullying.
• 😀 Despite being socially accepted, transgender people in Thailand are still not legally recognized, and their original gender remains on official documents.
• 😀 The Thai government has not yet officially acknowledged the existence of transgender individuals, leading to the continued struggle for legal recognition and rights.
• 😀 There are programs in Thailand that help transgender people transition, but these initiatives often aim to ‘correct’ their gender identity, emphasizing that they were born male.
• 😀 Some transgender individuals in Thailand undergo gender confirmation surgery, but they are still required to serve in the military, as their original gender is legally recognized.
• 😀 The transgender community in Thailand, especially in urban centers, has become commercialized, with many performances, such as Miss Tiffany Universe, showcasing ladyboy culture.
• 😀 Personal anecdotes from the speaker demonstrate a growing acceptance and understanding of transgender people, emphasizing the importance of treating them with respect and dignity.

Q & A

Why is the term 'transgender' not commonly used in Thailand?

In Thailand, the term 'transgender' is not frequently used. Instead, people commonly refer to transgender individuals as 'hato' or 'tuti-tu.' The term 'tuti-tu' was inspired by the 1980s American film 'Tootsie,' in which a man dresses as a woman. The term reflects a more cultural understanding of gender identity in Thailand.

What do transgender people in Thailand prefer to be called?

Transgender individuals in Thailand prefer to be called 'ladyboys' or 'feminine men' as they see themselves as a third gender, distinct from women. They do not typically appreciate being called 'hato' or 'tuti-tu,' as these terms can have negative connotations linked to sexual deviance.

How does Thai culture view transgender people?

Thai culture has a unique perspective on transgender individuals. Historically, transgender people were not recognized, and their existence was often dismissed. However, over time, especially with the influence of Buddhism, transgender individuals are now seen as people fulfilling a karmic role or 'penance' for past-life misdeeds. This belief system has contributed to their somewhat accepted presence in society, particularly in urban areas.

What role does Buddhism play in the acceptance of transgender people in Thailand?

Buddhism plays a significant role in shaping how transgender individuals are viewed in Thailand. Thai Buddhists believe in reincarnation, where the soul's next life depends on the actions in the previous life. Transgender people are often seen as individuals who are atoning for past-life sins, particularly minor offenses, which has allowed them to be somewhat accepted in Thai society, despite not being legally recognized.

How are transgender people treated by their families in Thailand?

In urban areas, families tend to be more accepting of transgender individuals, with some parents even supporting their children in transitioning. In rural areas, however, there can be more resistance, and transgender people may face bullying or discrimination. This is due to less awareness and understanding of transgender issues in these regions.

What challenges do transgender individuals face legally in Thailand?

Despite their social acceptance in certain parts of society, transgender individuals in Thailand face legal challenges. Their gender identity is not recognized on official documents, which means their gender markers on IDs and other legal records remain unchanged. This lack of legal recognition complicates their lives, particularly in areas like employment and military service.

What are some of the societal issues faced by transgender individuals in rural Thailand?

In rural areas, transgender individuals often experience discrimination and bullying, especially from peers and family members. These individuals may face harsh societal reactions, as rural communities tend to be less accepting of non-conventional gender identities compared to urban centers like Bangkok.

What is the significance of 'ladyboy' beauty pageants in Thai society?

Ladyboy beauty pageants, such as the Miss Tiffany Universe contest, play a major role in showcasing transgender talent and beauty. These events have elevated the visibility of transgender individuals in Thai culture, allowing them to be celebrated and gain a platform in mainstream media.

How has the visibility of transgender individuals in Thailand changed over time?

Over time, the visibility of transgender individuals in Thailand has increased significantly, especially in urban areas. With the rise of media portrayals and the commercial success of transgender-themed shows and beauty pageants, the transgender community is more prominent. However, the legal recognition of their gender identity remains a significant issue.

What is the attitude of Thai society towards transgender people in the military?

In Thailand, transgender individuals are still required to serve in the military, as their gender identity is not legally recognized. This is despite their cultural acceptance in certain aspects of society. Efforts to change this and gain legal recognition for transgender people are ongoing, led by advocacy groups like the Transfemoral Association of Thailand.