Myanmar flags were raised and photos of Aung San Suu Kyi were held above the crowd as thousands of migrant workers from Myanmar gathered at a fishing village in Samut Sakhon to give their “mother” a heroic welcome.
Suu Kyi, now her country’s foreign minister and state counsellor, visited Thailand today for the first time since her National League for Democracy party swept the election in November, ending half a century of dominance by the military. It was her second trip to the area since she was freed from house arrest in 2010.
As Suu Kyi’s car came into the view, thousands of supporters stood outside Talay Thai Market and yelled out “Amay Suu” or “Mother Suu.” Many wore some article of clothing bearing her likeness.
“I want to see her face and talk to her about our low wages. It’s not enough to pay rent, and we work so hard,” said Win, 25, who has lived in Thailand for two years.
“I get paid THB300 ($10) per day, barely enough for food.”
But thousands were left disappointed and outside in the rain as only 500 supporters were selected to enter the hall where Suu Kyi gave a brief speech.
“I’ve been waiting for a long time. The last time she came I didn’t see her or talk to her,” said Nittaya, 43, who adopted a Thai name after living here for seven years.
“Today I’m disappointed I didn’t get to talk to her. I didn’t hear a thing. I didn’t see a thing at all.”
But to Roma Tenpo, 37, just knowing Suu Kyi is in Thailand means there will be change for migrant workers.
She was clutching a white bouquet of flowers for “mother” and, even though she didn’t get to see her, it didn’t dim her smile as she left the market wearing a large piece of KFC foil packaging to stay dry, just like many others leaving the event.
“We didn’t hear her speak, but it doesn’t matter. We came for love. She’s the role model for our country. We love her. Whatever happens, we’ll love her,” Roma said.
“I really want to go home. But it’s not easy to go back. It’d be better if Aung San Suu Kyi was president,” she added.
Thailand is home to two to three million Burmese workers who work low-paid labor jobs. The democracy icon’s visit promises better futures for the migrant workers, some of whom are illegal and subjected to abuse.
Although barred from presidency, the 71-year-old is basically the leader of Myanmar as her party now makes up the majority in the house of parliament. Her role of “state counselor” is a broadly defined job that leaves room for interpretation.
“She means a lot. She’s the mother of Myanmar. Not just me, but every migrant worker here believe she will do something to help us,” said Ae Nai, 37, a factory worker living in Chachoengsao.
Story: Laurel Tuohy/ Prae Sakaowan
Photos: Pai Chanikarn
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