Thai marine conservationist Psi Scott has sparked an online debate after criticizing foreign service workers in Bangkok for speaking English to Thai customers.
Psi, also known as Sai Samut, shared his views on X through his personal account, @psisamutt, saying he chooses to respond in Thai when foreign employees address him in English.
“If they can’t respond in Thai, I ask to change the person taking my order,” he wrote.
Psi said he believes this is a small way he can encourage the use of Thai in Thailand.
“I’m in Thailand — I want to speak Thai. They can find jobs in Thailand but can’t speak Thai. That is taking advantage of our country,” he wrote.
The post quickly gained attention online, prompting mixed reactions. Some users supported Psi’s view that foreign workers should be able to communicate in Thai, while others questioned whether speaking Thai should be a requirement for foreign employees, particularly in Bangkok’s international service industry.
The discussion has also raised broader questions about language, employment and the integration of foreign workers into Thai society.