Urdu in Thailand

Introduction / History

Those who are from what is now Pakistan have been in Thailand (then called Siam) since the early 20th century. More of them arrived in Thailand during WWII. They are part of the South Asian communities in Thailand. Most Urdu speaking people in Thailand live in Bangkok.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Pakistani Urdu speakers can take white or blue collar jobs in Thailand. Some have been in trouble for forging passports. They are among the largest Muslim communities in that Buddhist country. There are many who are students, especially in Thailand's Asian Institute of Technology.

What Are Their Beliefs?

There is a higher concentration of Urdu speaking Ahmadiyya Muslims in Thailand than other parts of the world. The Ahmadiyyas are a relatively new sect of Islam that believes that an Islamic savior has come. They are considered heretics by most Muslims, and they often face violent persecution. Most likely they are safer in this tolerant Buddhist country.

What Are Their Needs?

The Urdu speakers in Thailand need the opportunity to make Jesus Christ central in their lives.

Prayer Points

Pray for the Lord to thrust out workers to the Urdu speakers in Thailand.
Pray for persons of peace among the Urdu people who will accept Christ's ambassadors.
Pray for a massive movement to Christ among Urdu speakers this decade leading to spiritual and physical blessings in Christ.
Pray for resources like the JESUS Film and Urdu language broadcasts to become widely available.

Text Source:   Joshua Project