Khun Yai is apparently the Thai equivalent of the kingpin of the French Connection, with global-scale vision. His powers encompass Asia, including China, where he has extricated a considerable number of Thais out of sticky situations with the Chinese. Anything remotely connected with the underworld and dirty dealings, Khun Yai has a hand in.
Khun Yai is Thai with French and Chinese blood, hence regards himself as being in a particularly strong position to voice his opinion of the way Asia is going. He considers Asia doesn’t have the leadership qualities to lead the world in the event that the West abdicates its current global leadership.
To quote Khun Yai directly, he says:
“the political foundation is not there in Asia to be a global leader. Civilizations now compete on creativity, and that requires the right social-political foundation in democracy, freedom and equality. Do you see Asia having that foundation any time soon? Look at Thailand, it is turning the clock back is it not? Asia, is reeling back on all fronts. Even at this time of Western financial collapse. In a few years, the consolidation will make them much stronger.”