Mr. Lert Pholtaptim, driver of bus number 356, became
a shining example of honesty and integrity when he turned in a bag to
the Tourist Police which had been left on his bus. The bag contained
thirty thousand baht in cash and many valuable documents, which the
Tourist Police were able to return to its rightful owner on October
12th.
When his honourable deed was reported to the Tourist Police Headquarters
in Bangkok, Lert was invited to come and personally receive a plaque of
appreciation and honour from the Commander of the Tourist Police.
Lert is now a member of the Volunteer Tourist Aid Society, an
organisation instituted initially by the Ministry of the Interior and
other arms of the government to help tourists both in well known tourism
areas and in more isolated parts of the country.
There are approximately 500 volunteers in Pattaya from all sectors of
society, and the Tourist Police appreciate the time they have donated to
help improve tourist safety and convenience. Their reward is the feeling
of being a host and helper to tourists and not an exploiter.
Mr. Lert set a good example for all, as he has helped show that being a
good citizen brings great honour and face to the Thai people and
Pattaya. In Thai this is called Nam Jai, which could be translated as
‘heart essence.’ It means giving to or doing for others without wishing
for anything in return.
