1. What is the history of the Thai influence in Parit Buntar?
The Thai influence in Parit Buntar dates back to the 18th century when the town was known as Rantau Panjang. It was a strategic trading port and was under the rule of the Sultanate of Kedah.
In 1909, Theang Choon Loh, a wealthy businessman of Thai-Chinese descent arrived in Rantau Panjang from Thailand. He established a successful business in the town and brought along other Thai migrants to work in his businesses. A large number of these migrants were from southern Thailand, specifically from areas such as Pattani, Satun, and Trang.
Theang Choon Loh also built a large settlement for his workers called Kampung Teh or “Teochew Village”. This name eventually evolved into Kampung Teh Lor (North Teochew Village) and Kampung Teh Timor (East Teochew Village). These settlements are still known by these names today.
With the influx of Thai migrants, many traditions and customs from Thailand were also brought over. These included the practice of Buddhism, traditional dance and music performances such as Nang Talung (shadow play), Mak Yong (traditional dance drama), and Rebana Ubi (percussion performance).
In 1909, Theang Choon Loh built Wat Suttha Kiree Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Parit Buntar. The temple is still active today and serves as a religious center for the local Thai community.
During World War II, Parit Buntar was occupied by Japanese forces and many of the local Thais were forced to flee to neighboring towns and villages for safety. After the war, some returned while others settled permanently in their new homes.
Today, there is still a significant Thai community living in Parit Buntar who continue to preserve their cultural heritage through festivals, food, and traditions. The influence of Thailand can also be seen in the town’s architecture, especially in some of the older buildings which have a blend of Thai and Chinese elements.
2. How has the culture of Parit Buntar been influenced by Thailand?
The culture of Parit Buntar has been influenced by Thailand in many ways, due to its proximity to the Thai border and historical ties between the two countries. Some of the key influences can be seen in religion, food, language, and traditional practices.
1. Religion:
Theravada Buddhism is the dominant religion in both Parit Buntar and Thailand. Many Thais migrated to Parit Buntar during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing their religious beliefs with them. As a result, many temples (wats) have been built in Parit Buntar following Thai architectural styles. The local population also practices many Theravada Buddhist customs and festivals such as Vesak Day, Asalha Puja, and Makha Bucha Day.
2. Food:
Thai cuisine has had a significant influence on the food culture of Parit Buntar. Many popular dishes in Parit Buntar are derived from Thai recipes, such as tom yam and green curry. Local markets also sell a variety of Thai ingredients such as lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves used in traditional Thai cooking.
3. Language:
The Malay language spoken in Parit Buntar has been heavily influenced by Thai vocabulary. Many words commonly used in daily conversations have their roots in the Thai language.
4. Traditional Practices:
Parit Buntar’s traditional practices have also been shaped by Thai cultural influences. For example, flying kites during the annual festival of Chinese New Year is believed to have originated from Thailand’s Loi Krathong festival where people release lanterns into the sky.
5. Arts and Crafts:
Thai arts and crafts have also made their way into the local culture of Parit Buntar through items like batik patterns that are inspired by traditional Thai designs.
Overall, these various influences have contributed to making Parit Buntar a culturally diverse town with a blend of Malay and Thai traditions. It is evident in the daily lives of the locals, cultural celebrations, and practices that the influence of Thailand has played a significant role in shaping the culture of Parit Buntar.
3. What are some traditional Thai customs and practices that are still observed in Parit Buntar?
1. Buddhist practices: Thailand is predominantly a Buddhist country, and many Thai customs and practices revolve around Buddhism. In Parit Buntar, there are several temples where locals go to pray and make offerings to Buddha.
2. Spirit houses: Thais believe that spirits reside in homes and buildings, and they erect small spirit houses outside their homes or businesses as a place for these spirits to live. This practice can also be seen in Parit Buntar.
3. Loy Krathong festival: This is a traditional festival celebrated annually on the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. In Parit Buntar, locals participate in this festival by releasing floats made of banana leaves, candles, and incense into the river to symbolize letting go of negative emotions and creating positive energy.
4. Khon mask dance: Khon is a traditional masked dance drama that tells stories from the Hindu epic Ramayana. This form of performance can still be seen in Parit Buntar during local festivals or cultural events.
5. Traditional clothing: While modern western clothing has become popular in Thailand, there are still some occasions where traditional Thai clothing is worn. In Parit Buntar, you may see locals dressed in traditional outfits such as the pha sin (a wrap-around skirt) or chut thai (a sarong-style cloth).
6. Wai greeting: The wai is a common greeting in Thailand where palms are pressed together in front of your chest with your head slightly bowed as a sign of respect towards someone. This custom can also be observed in Parit Buntar.
7. Songkran festival: The Songkran festival marks the Thai New Year and is traditionally celebrated by water splashing and pouring scented water over Buddha statues for good luck. In Parit Buntar, locals celebrate this festival with water-themed activities and by visiting temples for blessings.
8. Thai cuisine: Traditional Thai food has a distinct flavor and is a significant part of Thai culture. In Parit Buntar, you can still find many local restaurants and street vendors selling traditional dishes such as pad thai, tom yum, and som tam.
9. Muay Thai: Muay Thai, also known as Thai boxing, is a traditional martial art that originated in Thailand. It is still widely practiced in Parit Buntar, with regular matches and training sessions held in local gyms.
10. Superstitions: Like many other Asian cultures, Thais are superstitious people. In Parit Buntar, you may come across locals following practices like not pointing at spirits or not stepping on threshold lines to avoid bad luck.
4. Can you recommend any Thai restaurants or markets in Parit Buntar to experience their cuisine?
Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the area of Parit Buntar and cannot make specific recommendations. However, you may be able to find Thai restaurants or markets by doing a quick search online or asking locals in the area. It is always best to ask for recommendations from those who are familiar with the local cuisine.
5. Are there any annual events or festivals in Parit Buntar that celebrate Thai culture?
Yes, there is an annual festival called the Thai Pongal Festival that celebrates Thai culture in Parit Buntar. This festival is usually held at the beginning of the year and features traditional Thai performances, food, and cultural activities.
6. Can you tell us about any significant landmarks or monuments in Parit Buntar related to its Thai heritage?
One significant landmark related to Parit Buntar’s Thai heritage is the Khlong Tok Kong Shrine. It is a Chinese-Thai temple located in the heart of Parit Buntar, dedicated to the deity Tok Kong, who is believed to bring prosperity and good luck. The temple features a fusion of Chinese and Thai architecture with intricate carvings and vibrant colors.
Another notable landmark is the Wat Nikrodharam (also known as Wat Petch). It is a Buddhist temple that was built in 1868 by a group of Thai migrants who settled in Parit Buntar. The temple houses a large statue of Buddha surrounded by beautiful gardens and traditional Thai pavilions.
The Phra Buddha Chinnarat statue, which stands at 108 feet tall, is also a significant landmark in Parit Buntar’s Thai heritage. Located at Wat Nikrodharam, it is one of the tallest Buddha statues in Malaysia and is modeled after the famous Chinnarat Buddha statue in Thailand.
Lastly, there is the Tua Pek Kong Temple, a popular Taoist temple among the local Chinese community. While it does not have direct ties to Parit Buntar’s Thai heritage, it has multiple altars dedicated to different deities from various cultures, including a large altar for Tok Kong as well as Bodhisattva Guanyin and Jowo Rinpoche from Tibetan Buddhism. This reflects the diverse cultural influences and harmony found in Parit Buntar.
7. How do the locals of Parit Buntar perceive and interact with their Thai neighbors?
The locals of Parit Buntar have generally positive perceptions of their Thai neighbors. They see them as friendly and welcoming, and there is a sense of camaraderie between the two communities.
As many Thai nationals travel to Parit Buntar for work or business, interactions between the locals and Thais are common. Locals often patronize businesses run by Thais and purchase goods from their markets. This has helped to foster an atmosphere of mutual understanding and cooperation.
Many locals also appreciate the cultural diversity brought by their Thai neighbors. They enjoy trying out Thai food, attending traditional festivals and participating in cultural activities organized by the Thai community.
Aside from economic and cultural exchanges, locals also interact with their Thai neighbors through social events such as weddings, birthdays, and gatherings. These events provide opportunities for both communities to socialize, strengthen bonds and bridge cultural differences.
Overall, the locals of Parit Buntar have a positive perception of their Thai neighbors and continue to engage in friendly interactions with them. There is a strong sense of neighborliness and respect among both communities, making Parit Buntar a harmonious place to live.
8. Are there any unique souvenirs or products in Parit Buntar that reflect its Thai influence?
There are a few unique souvenirs and products in Parit Buntar that reflect its Thai influence:1. Traditional Handicrafts: The locals in Parit Buntar produce and sell various handicrafts such as hand-woven baskets, hats, and mats made from bamboo and other natural materials. These products are heavily influenced by the traditional Thai craft of weaving.
2. Snacks and Desserts: The popular snacks and desserts in Parit Buntar have a strong Thai influence. Some examples include “pineapple tarts” (a type of pastry filled with pineapple jam), kuih siput (a crispy spiral-shaped snack made from wheat flour), and coconut pancakes.
3. Herbal Products: Parit Buntar is known for its traditional herbal remedies, which have been passed down from generation to generation. Many of these herbal products use ingredients that were introduced by Thai traders, such as lemongrass, ginger, turmeric, and galangal.
4. Traditional Dresses: The traditional dresses worn by the Malay community in Parit Buntar also show influences from Thai culture. These dresses feature vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and elaborate embroidery similar to those seen in traditional Thai costumes.
5. Lemongrass-based Products: Lemongrass is a widely cultivated herb in Parit Buntar due to its abundance of nutrients and health benefits. As a result, there are many lemongrass-based products available in the town such as soaps, candles, essential oils, and teas.
6. Dragon Fruit Products: Thanks to the close proximity to Thailand, dragon fruit is also widely grown and consumed in Parit Buntar. You can find various dragon fruit-based items such as jams, juices, candies, and even beauty products like face masks made from this nutritious fruit.
7. Kuih Kapik: Kuih Kapik is a popular local delicacy in Parit Buntar that reflects the Thai influence on the town. These bite-sized cookies are made from flour, coconut, sugar, and eggs, and often have a hint of lemongrass or pandan flavor.
8. Thai-Inspired Homeware: You can also find unique homeware items in Parit Buntar that have been heavily influenced by Thai design and aesthetics. From traditional pots and jars to colorful plates and utensils, these products make for great souvenirs or decorations for your home.
9. Is there a strong presence of Buddhism, the dominant religion in Thailand, in Parit Buntar’s culture and traditions?
Yes, there is a strong presence of Buddhism in Parit Buntar’s culture and traditions. The majority of the population in Parit Buntar, like in most parts of Malaysia, practices Theravada Buddhism. The town has several Buddhist temples, also known as wats, which are important centers for religious and cultural activities. These temples are not only places of worship but also serve as community hubs where traditional ceremonies and events take place.
Buddhist teachings and values also heavily influence the daily life and way of thinking of the people in Parit Buntar. Many aspects of their culture and traditions, including rituals, festivals, and customs are deeply rooted in Buddhist beliefs.
Additionally, the town also has a large number of ongoing charitable projects initiated by the local Buddhist community to provide humanitarian aid to those in need. This demonstrates the active involvement and influence of Buddhism in both the spiritual and social aspects of Parit Buntar’s society.
10. Has the influx of Thai tourists affected the local community and economy of Parit Buntar?
It is likely that the influx of Thai tourists has had a significant impact on the local community and economy of Parit Buntar. Here are some ways in which this might have occurred:
1. Boosting the tourism industry: The increase in Thai tourists could lead to a boost in the local tourism industry, as they would be spending money on accommodation, food, and activities in Parit Buntar.
2. Job creation: With more tourists coming to Parit Buntar, there may be a demand for more workers in various sectors such as hospitality, transportation, and retail. This could create job opportunities for residents of the area.
3. Increase in prices: As more tourists visit the area, there may be an increase in prices for goods and services due to high demand. This could result in a rise in overall cost of living for the locals.
4. Cultural exchange: The influx of Thai tourists can also bring about cultural exchange between locals and visitors, which can have a positive impact on the community by promoting understanding and tolerance.
5. Impact on traditional businesses: The increase in tourist-oriented businesses may lead to competition for small-scale traditional businesses like homestays, local restaurants, or souvenir shops.
6. Strain on infrastructure: A large number of tourists can put strain on existing infrastructure such as roads, public transport systems, and waste management systems.
7. Preservation of local heritage sites: Increased tourist arrivals can provide funds for preservation and upkeep of important local historical sites or cultural attractions.
8. Opportunities for growth: With increased exposure to international visitors and their tastes and preferences, local businesses may expand their markets beyond borders into Thailand itself.
9. Seasonal fluctuations: If most tourists visit during peak season only (e.g., New Year holidays), it may create disruptions or seasonal fluctuations within communities dependent solely on tourism revenue.
10.Knowledge sharing: Finally,the influx of Thai tourists could also mean increased interaction and sharing of knowledge and skills between locals and visitors, leading to community empowerment and capacity-building for the local economy.
11. Are there any traditional art forms, such as dance or music, that have been adopted from Thailand in Parit Buntar?
There are some traditional art forms from Thailand that have been adopted in Parit Buntar, such as:
1. Thai classical dance: Some dance schools or organizations in Parit Buntar offer classes and performances of Thai classical dance.
2. Muay Thai: Also known as Thai kickboxing, Muay Thai has gained popularity in Parit Buntar, with some gyms and clubs offering training and competition opportunities.
3. Traditional Thai music: Some music schools in Parit Buntar teach traditional Thai instruments such as the ranad (xylophone), saw duang (two-stringed fiddle), and khong wong yai (gong circle).
4. Traditional festivals: Due to the close proximity and cultural exchange between Thailand and Parit Buntar, some traditional festivals celebrated in Thailand, such as Songkran and Loy Krathong, are also observed by the local community.
5. Traditional food: Some dishes from Thailand, such as tom yum soup and green papaya salad, can be found in restaurants and food stalls in Parit Buntar.
6. Traditional crafts: Artisans and craftsmen from Parit Buntar may incorporate techniques or designs inspired by traditional Thai crafts into their work.
12. Can you recommend any local cultural tours or activities focused on exploring the Thai influence in Parit Buntar?
Yes, there are several local cultural tours and activities in Parit Buntar that focus on exploring the Thai influence in the area. Some options include:
1. Visit the Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram temple: This beautiful Thai Buddhist temple is one of the oldest temples in Parit Buntar and features stunning architecture and intricate artwork.
2. Join a food tour: Many food tours in Parit Buntar offer visits to restaurants or hawker stalls that serve delicious Thai cuisine, giving you a taste of the local Thai flavors.
3. Take a heritage walk: Join a guided walking tour around the town to explore its rich history and see the remaining traces of Thai influence, such as old buildings and temples.
4. Attend a cultural festival: Throughout the year, Parit Buntar hosts various cultural festivals celebrating Thai traditions, such as Songkran (Thai New Year) or Loi Krathong (Festival of Lights).
5. Visit a rubber plantation: Parit Buntar is known for its thriving rubber industry, which was first introduced by Thai settlers. You can visit a rubber plantation to learn about its history and production process.
6. Explore Nibong Tebal Floating Market: Located just outside Parit Buntar, this popular floating market offers an authentic taste of Thai markets with various vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and local products from their boats.
7. Batik workshop: Learn about the traditional art of batik making at one of the local workshops where you can create your own batik designs using traditional techniques.
8. Visit Kampung Selama Fishing Village: This village has been home to Malaysian-Thai fishermen for generations and offers a glimpse into their unique way of life and traditional fishing methods.
9. Attend a Thai dance performance: Many cultural centers in Parit Buntar regularly organize traditional Thai dance performances, providing an opportunity to experience this beautiful art form.
10. Take a boat ride on Kerian River: Explore the Kerian River, which flows through Parit Buntar, and see the beautiful scenery and traditional Thai houses along its banks.
13. Have there been any recent efforts to preserve and promote the Thai heritage in Parit Buntar?
Yes, there have been ongoing efforts to preserve and promote the Thai heritage in Parit Buntar through various initiatives, including:1. Establishment of a Thai Heritage Museum: In 2014, the Perak state government, together with the local Thai community, opened the Thai Heritage Museum in Parit Buntar. The museum showcases various artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of the Thai community in Parit Buntar.
2. Cultural Festivals: The annual “Thai Culture Fest” is held in Parit Buntar to showcase traditional Thai music, dance, food and other cultural activities. It is organized by the local district office and attended by both locals and tourists.
3. Restoration of Wat Ang Tai Keng Temple: The Wat Ang Tai Keng temple, which was built in 1848, has recently undergone restoration and renovation works to preserve its architectural heritage.
4. Educational Programs: The district office of Parit Buntar has introduced educational programs for students to learn about and appreciate the local Thai culture and traditions.
5. Cultural workshops: Regular workshops are conducted for the youth and general public to introduce them to traditional Thai crafts like batik painting, puppet-making, and traditional cooking methods.
6. Tourism Promotion: The state government has also been actively promoting Parit Buntar as a tourism destination for its rich cultural heritage, including its strong Thai influence.
7. Preservation of Traditional Houses: Efforts have been made to preserve traditional wooden houses belonging to the local Thais as they are an important part of their cultural heritage.
Overall, these efforts aim to increase awareness and promote appreciation for the unique Thai heritage present in Parit Buntar while also preserving it for future generations.
14 Be people able to converse in both Malay and Thai languages in Parit Buntar due to its proximity to Thailand?
Yes, it is likely that people in Parit Buntar would be able to converse in both Malay and Thai languages due to the town’s close proximity to Thailand. Many locals in border areas like Parit Buntar have cultural and linguistic ties with neighboring countries and are often fluent in multiple languages. Furthermore, Thai is recognized as a second language in Malaysia, which makes it commonly spoken by the population living near the Thai-Malaysia border. Therefore, it is not uncommon for people in Parit Buntar to be able to communicate fluently in both Malay and Thai languages.
15.Have there been any conflicts between the local Malay community and the Thais living in Parit Buntar?
There have been no major conflicts reported between the local Malay community and the Thais living in Parit Buntar. There may be occasional misunderstandings or disagreements, but overall there is a peaceful coexistence between the two communities.
16.How does the food scene differ between traditional Malay dishes and those influenced by Thailand in Parit Buntar?
The food scene in Parit Buntar is heavily influenced by both traditional Malay dishes as well as Thai cuisine. Traditional Malay dishes in Parit Buntar are known for their use of local ingredients such as rice, fish, and various herbs and spices. They are typically cooked using methods like grilling, steaming, and stir-frying.
On the other hand, Thai-influenced dishes in Parit Buntar are characterized by their bold and spicy flavors. Thai dishes have been adapted to suit the local palate, incorporating elements of Malay cooking techniques and ingredients. Some popular examples of Thai-influenced dishes in Parit Buntar include tom yam soup, pad thai noodles, and green curry.
While traditional Malay dishes tend to be simpler and milder in flavor, Thai-influenced dishes are more complex and often feature a combination of sweet, sour, spicy, and salty flavors. Both types of cuisine can be found at local restaurants and street vendors in Parit Buntar, offering visitors a diverse range of options to choose from.
17.Are there any historical ties between specific regions or provinces of Thailand and certain areas within Parit Buntar?
There are no known historical ties between specific regions or provinces of Thailand and Parit Buntar. However, there are cultural and economic exchanges between Thailand and Parit Buntar, as both areas have large Chinese populations and engage in trade and commerce. Additionally, the town of Sungai Bakap, which is adjacent to Parit Buntar, was established by Thai immigrants in the late 1800s.
18.How have modern developments and globalization impacted the preservation of Thai culture in Parit Buntar?
There are several modern developments and globalization that have impacted the preservation of Thai culture in Parit Buntar.
1. Technology: The advancement of technology has made it easier for the Thai community in Parit Buntar to stay connected with their cultural roots. Through social media, they can share information, photos, and videos about Thai culture with other people in the community, thus promoting cultural awareness and preservation.
2. Tourism: With the increase in global tourism, there has been a rise in interest for traditional cultures and customs. This has created opportunities for the promotion of Thai culture in Parit Buntar through cultural performances, traditional food, and handicrafts.
3. Education: The education system in Parit Buntar has also played a vital role in preserving Thai culture. Many schools have included programs and activities that focus on teaching students about their cultural heritage.
4. Cultural organizations: There are several Thai cultural organizations in Parit Buntar that work towards promoting and preserving their traditions and customs. These organizations often host cultural events, workshops, and classes to educate both locals and tourists about Thai culture.
5. Food: The popularity of Thai cuisine globally has also contributed to the preservation of Thai culture in Parit Buntar. Local restaurants serving authentic Thai food have become popular among tourists, creating an opportunity to showcase traditional dishes and cooking methods.
6. Government support: The government of Malaysia has recognized the importance of preserving its diverse cultures and traditions. As a result, various initiatives have been taken to protect and promote Thai culture in Parit Buntar.
Overall, modern developments and globalization have had a positive impact on preserving Thai culture in Parit Buntar by increasing awareness, creating opportunities for promotion, and receiving support from both local communities and government authorities.
19.Are there any traditional dances or performances that are unique to Parit Buntar, but heavily influenced by Thai culture?
Yes, there are a few traditional dances and performances in Parit Buntar that have been heavily influenced by Thai culture. These include:
1. ‘Baileang’ Dance: This is a dance that is often performed during ceremonies or celebrations in Parit Buntar. It involves dancers wearing traditional Thai costumes and performing intricate hand movements while accompanied by traditional music.
2. ‘Manohra’ Dance: Manohra is a popular Thai dance that has been adapted and incorporated into the culture of Parit Buntar. This graceful dance tells the story of a mythical creature called Manohra, who was believed to be half-human and half-bird.
3. ‘Nora’-Thai Puppetry Show: The art of puppetry known as ‘Nora’ in Thai, has also been adopted by the people of Parit Buntar. It involves skilled puppeteers manipulating intricately crafted puppets to tell stories from ancient Thai epics.
4. Shadow Puppet Theater: Another form of puppetry heavily influenced by Thai culture is the shadow puppet theater called ‘Wayang Kulit’. The puppets used in this performance are made using cow or buffalo leather and are intricately decorated with gold leaf.
5. Martial Arts Demonstrations: Thailand is renowned for its martial arts such as Muay Thai and Krabi-Krabong, which have also found their way into the culture of Parit Buntar. In addition to being a form of self-defense, these martial arts are also performed as part of cultural festivals or events.
Overall, there are several unique performances in Parit Buntar that have been greatly influenced by Thai culture, showcasing the strong connections between these two neighboring countries.
20.How does the influence of Thailand continue to shape and evolve the cultural landscape of Parit Buntar?
1. Buddhist Influence: Thailand is a predominantly Buddhist country and this influence can be seen in the religious practices and beliefs of the people in Parit Buntar. Many temples or wats have been built in the Thai style, and festivals such as Songkran, Loy Krathong, and Visakha Bucha are also celebrated by the Thai community in Parit Buntar.
2. Cuisine: The Thai influence can also be seen in the local cuisine of Parit Buntar, with many dishes incorporating Thai flavors and cooking techniques. Some popular dishes include tom yam soup, green curry, and mango sticky rice.
3. Language: Due to its geographical proximity to Thailand, many locals in Parit Buntar are able to speak Thai fluently and some even use it as their first language. This has led to a fusion of Malay and Thai words being used in daily conversations.
4. Traditional Dance: The traditional dance form of Parit Buntar, known as “Joget” was heavily influenced by traditional Thai dances. Some elements such as graceful hand movements, intricate footwork, and colorful costumes can be traced back to Thai dances.
5. Cultural Events: The Thai community in Parit Buntar organizes various cultural events throughout the year that showcase their traditions, customs, and heritage. These events attract tourists and locals alike and contribute towards preserving the Thai culture in the town.
6. Architecture: Many buildings in Parit Buntar have been constructed using traditional Thai architecture, with distinct designs such as pitched roofs, ornamental facades, and intricate carvings. This adds to the unique charm of the town.
7. Trade: As a trading port between Malaysia and Thailand, Parit Buntar has been greatly influenced by Thailand’s economy over the years. Many businesses in town still have ties with Thailand which has contributed to its economic growth.
8. Arts and Crafts: Thai arts and crafts have also made their way into Parit Buntar, with traditional handmade items such as silk scarves, painting, and wood carving being sold in local markets. These items are often prized possessions among tourists.
9. Tourism: The popularity of Thailand as a tourist destination has also indirectly influenced Parit Buntar’s tourism industry. Many tourists traveling to Thailand also make a stop in Parit Buntar, boosting the town’s economy.
10. Festivals: With a significant Thai population, many festivals celebrated in Parit Buntar have a unique Thai flavor to it. This includes the annual Nine Emperor Gods Festival, where traditional Thai performances such as fire-walking and dragon dances are featured.
In conclusion, the influence of Thailand continues to shape and evolve the cultural landscape of Parit Buntar through various aspects such as religion, cuisine, language, dance, events, architecture, trade, arts and crafts, tourism and festivals. These elements have become deeply ingrained in the town’s identity and play a significant role in preserving its rich cultural heritage.