Myanmar Migrant Workers’ Acceptance, Existence, and Adaptation for Thai Societies, in Bang Bon District, Bangkok

Abstract

          This research aimed to study the acceptance, existence and adaptation of Myanmar migrant workers in Thai societies. The study was collecting data from 3 sample groups: namely, Myanmar migrant workers in Bang Bon area, Bangkok; small industrial entrepreneurs in Bang Bon area; and people in the residential area in Bang Bon. This is was a qualitative research, using behavioral observation methods and in-depth interviews. The results showed that there were many Myanmar migrant workers in Bang Bon area, and they did not expect acceptance from the Thai societies. However, they  were trying to adapt to live in the Thai societies: simplicity, frugality, and faith in religions. They had strong working ethics: saving their money from wages and sending it to their families in Myanmar. Also, they believed that working and living in Thailand would make their future better; they expected only jobs to do and get paid.  Moreover, they hoped that Thai people did not take advantage of them. Additionally, in Thailand they gained more money and had better life quality than in Myanmar.