The Growing Trend of Learning Thai: Insights from Hibiscus Academy
A recent feature in Nanyang Siang Pao titled “The Idol Era Takes a Big Turn: Young People Learning Thai to Follow Their Idols” sheds light on the growing trend of learning Thai, driven by the influence of Thai pop culture. The article includes insights from Lew Voon Khong, Thai course director and teacher at Hibiscus Academy 大紅花學館, along with stories from his students, Milk and Ee Fang Jing.
Insights from Lew Voon Khong
Lew Voon Khong explained the reasons behind the growing interest in learning Thai:“The global influence of Thai pop culture is undeniable. Thai dramas, stars, and music have captivated audiences across Asia and beyond, sparking widespread interest in the Thai language and fueling the demand for Thai courses in Malaysia.”
He highlighted that interest-driven learning often results in better motivation, with students actively dedicating time and energy to their studies. Many immerse themselves in the language by watching Thai dramas and listening to Thai music, which significantly improves their listening and speaking skills.
“Learning through passion not only enhances language skills but also fosters a deeper connection with the culture,” he added.
Milk’s Story
Milk, one of Lew’s students, shared how she was inspired by the approachable and genuine personalities of Thai stars. This led her to take her passion further by enrolling in a Thai course.
“Despite the challenges of Thai pronunciation and the tricky rolled ‘R’ sound, I managed to master the basics within three months. This learning journey has allowed me to interact more closely with my idols and build cross-cultural friendships,” Milk said.
Ee Fang Jing’s Story
For Ee Fang Jing, learning Thai began as a way to support her favorite Thai stars. She progressed from basic greetings to reading and writing Thai, which significantly enriched her fan experience.
“Being able to use Thai at fan events has deepened my connection with the culture and the stars I admire. It’s a rewarding journey that bridges cultural gaps,” she shared.
At Hibiscus Academy, Thai courses are not just about learning a language—they’re about building cultural connections and creating opportunities for personal growth.
Read the full feature on Nanyang Siang Pao here: Full Article - Nanyang Siang Pao
English Version of the news article:
The Idol Era Takes a Big Turn: Young People Flocking to Learn Thai
By Yu Pei Ni
In recent years, Thailand's entertainment industry has flourished, with its dramas, music, and star power rapidly gaining international recognition. The wave of "Thai Pop" has swept across the globe and sparked a fervent interest among Malaysian youth. Many have become ardent fans of Thai stars, with fashion brands transitioning from inviting Korean stars to Thai celebrities for events. Malaysians even travel to Thailand to attend fan meets and events. This phenomenon has led to a surge in Thai language learning, making it a noteworthy cultural trend today.
From Korean Wave to Thai Wave
Following the earlier waves of Japanese and Korean culture, Malaysia is now witnessing a silent yet strong trend of learning Thai. Increasing numbers of young people are enrolling in Thai courses or teaching themselves the language through social media. This shift stems not only from traditional motivations like travel or business but is primarily driven by the rapid rise of Thai entertainment.
Thai Entertainment’s Global Reach
Thai dramas, music, and stars have gained immense global popularity. Beyond traditional Thai TV series, some production companies have explored innovative genres and unique styles, captivating audiences worldwide. Fans from across Asia and as far as Europe, the Americas, and beyond have created fan groups dedicated to their favorite Thai stars, highlighting Thai entertainment's international influence.
For instance, the romantic drama "2gether: The Series" (2020) propelled Bright Vachirawit and Win Metawin to fame. Stars like Nadech Kugimiya, Yaya Urassaya, Freen Becky, and Faye have also garnered global admiration for their talent and charm. High-quality dramas, relatable storylines, and stellar performances have won over audiences, including Malaysian youth.
From Fandom to Language Learning
Malaysian fans actively follow their idols on social media, immersing themselves in Thai culture and language. This includes watching dramas, participating in online and offline fan events, and even traveling to Thailand for concerts and fan meetings. For many, their fandom becomes the gateway to learning Thai.
Cultural Exploration Among Youth
The rising interest in Thai reflects a deeper cultural curiosity and appreciation among the younger generation. This cultural exploration fosters mutual respect and highlights the potential of cross-cultural exchanges.
From Watching Thai Dramas to Learning Thai
One such enthusiast is 28-year-old “Milk” (pseudonym), who transitioned from watching Thai dramas to becoming a fan of Thai stars and eventually enrolling in a Thai language course.
Milk discovered Thai entertainment in May 2024 through social media, which led her to a journey of admiration for Thai stars. "I was impressed by the acting and multifaceted talents of stars like Faye, Charlotte, and Namtan. Their genuine interactions with fans made them feel approachable and warm," she shared.
Milk began by self-studying Thai through social media before taking online classes. Despite the challenges of Thai pronunciation, particularly the rolled “R” sound, and structural differences from Chinese, she persisted.
“After three months, I grasped the basics. This journey has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to interact with fans globally and build cross-cultural friendships,” she said.
A Deeper Connection Through Language
Milk noted that learning Thai enriched her fan experience. She could understand key phrases in dramas and even engage in Thai-speaking events. “Participating in online and offline activities, meeting idols, and even having Hi Touch moments were unforgettable,” she added.
Using Thai to Support Stars
Another enthusiast, 37-year-old Ee Fang Jing, works as a translator for a media research company. Her interest in Thai began in March 2022 with the drama "Love Mechanics" and gradually extended to Thai movies and music.
Initially, Ee Fang Jing could only manage basic phrases like “Hi” and “Bye.” However, after formally studying Thai, she progressed to reading and writing, which transformed her fan experience.
“I felt immense joy whenever Thai stars responded to my messages. Learning the language allowed me to express my support more sincerely,” she said.
Over a year, Ee Fang Jing reached a basic proficiency in Thai and now engages more deeply during fan events. She even uses Thai while traveling, noting its practicality in communicating with locals and enhancing fan meet experiences.
The Role of Thai Teachers in Malaysia
Lew Voon Khong, a Thai language teacher in Malaysia, noted that many students are motivated to learn Thai because of their passion for Thai stars. This interest-driven learning often yields better results as students invest time and energy willingly.
Thailand’s Cultural Appeal
Lew also highlighted the unique appeal of Thai culture, from its openness and relaxed societal atmosphere to its Buddhist heritage, which resonates strongly with Malaysian Chinese.
“Thai pop culture's global influence has fueled Malaysia’s Thai language learning trend,” he said.
Beyond Fandom: Sustainability of Thai Language Learning
While fan culture is a significant driver, Lew emphasized the sustainability of Thai language learning through its role in business and tourism.
“Thai language demand will grow further, supported by Thailand’s advancements in technology, economy, and its role as a cultural hub,” Lew explained.
A Growing Global Language
Lew believes Thai has the potential to become a globally influential language, with the current trend paving the way for greater international engagement.
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