30 percent of women in Thailand embrace motortaxi profession

More women are embracing the motortaxi riders profession in Thailand.

A veteran of seven years who works in the bustling On Nut district, Ar is among the thousands of women drawn to the work as gender roles in Thailand evolve, attracted by the flexible hours, decent wages, and a sense of autonomy.

She welcomes the changes as offering a chance for women to gain more independence.

“I am glad there are more opportunities for women to become ‘motorsai’,” she said, referring to the road warriors whose distinctive orange jackets line the streets of Bangkok.

“A new generation of women now have to be tough and brave.”

AFP / Lillian SUWANRUMPHA
Bangkok’s motortaxi drivers live on the edge, weaving skillfully between long lines of cars
Although no official figures are available, observers say more women are choosing to brave the risky traffic-logged roads and discrimination for the flexible work schedule, which allows them ownership over their lives.

Chaloem Changtongmadun, president of Thailand’s Motorcycle Taxi Association, said that working as a motorsai offered women a level of freedom not available in offices, shops or factories.

“Women don’t find the work convenient when they become pregnant, take maternity leave or visit their hometown,” he told AFP.

“They feel a closer connection with their families than when they worked in companies.”

He believes that women today make up roughly 30 percent of Bangkok’s 98,000 registered drivers although others say the numbers are probably lower.

In many parts of the Thai workforce gender expectations are still at play, with women typically filling service industry jobs and clerical positions.