Malaise-ia

A proposed pipeline that would transport natural gas from the South China Sea through Thailand and into Malaysia is bringing only conflict to the region thus far. The Thai government sees possibilities for modernization, dependable energy, employment, and the economic unification of Southeast Asia in the pipeline, but many villagers see a threat to their land and way of life. Since March, residents of the Kra isthmus, which connects Thailand to Malaysia, have frustrated efforts to begin construction of the pipeline by setting up blockades and convening lectures on energy use, environmental issues, and globalization.