The Thai army believes it needs the help of talismans to protect itself from Cambodian soldiers. The chief of the 2nd Army Friday distributed talismans to his troops to help protect them from evil curses which he believes Cambodians are likely to call upon in their fight over disputed border areas.

– Extracted from Wassana Nanuam, “Keep your talismans close, boys”, Bangkok Post, 12 February 2011. Thanks to an ANU colleague for pointing this one out.

Long-time New Mandala readers will recall how many words have been spilled here over the years on Khmer “voodoo” and related issues.