Preserving their cultural heritage is a good thing. The definition of how old and artistic the object should be to qualify for such protection is a legitimate business business of any country.
But I remember Royal Palace in Bangkok. Outside the palace was a rickety construction, without walls, just a roof on the poles, providing partial coverage. Inside were shelves and stands of old daabs, rusty beyond recognition, fully exposed to heat and humidity.
Somehow, this did not inspire my confidence in the Thai protection of their cultural heritage.
|