"Thai ...some ruthless people in aviation..." ???!!!..... noooooo way
One thing is for sure, once you experience Thailand as a pilot, you return to your country and you think you're dealing with the Spanish Inquisition when you compare it with the Thai authority.
I have to give it to them though, they have assured that only local millionaires can play ball with their licensing requirements (annual rating renewals that cost 3 times the US or AUS cost) they attract expats with their local beauties (I mean come on, its a beautiful country...), and they can cover up almost everything, as long as they get their fair share!
Cannot comment on Lao or Cambo and the rest, but I would safely assume that the commies can give some lessons on ruthlessness now that they are introduced to the new market model.