Nazi iconography ranging from swastika flags to T-shirts showing images of Adolf Hitler are easy to find in Southeast Asian markets. Critics attribute this trend to ignorance about historical facts and a misplaced fascination with the fascist regime.
In January 2019, a member of popular Thai band BNK48 wore a T-shirt showing a Nazi flag with a swastika on it during a televised rehearsal. The appearance sparked a huge controversy, with the Israeli embassy expressing “shock and dismay”. There are some, however, who are growing more aware of the reasons why such items cause offense.
(Photo: AFP)