Surabot 'Pleum' Leekpai speaks about being the only son of former premier Chuan Leekpai. Will he follow in his father's footsteps?

Published on March 9, 2008

Your father is a respected figure. Is he a role model?

Dad will always be a politician to me. Whatever he wants to do, he thinks of other people first. He is my hero. I learned from him that good politicians should think of others first.

Some say he is slow to make a decision. I don't think so. He considers what's best in a particular situation, or if he can do what's asked. When he makes a decision, it's a quality, decisive one.

What sort of person are you?

Well, I'm a man with several sides. It depends on the circumstances. But my friends always call me "monkey". Maybe my face looks like a monkey's; maybe it's my character. I am an active person. I always find something to do.

Describe your lifestyle.

I like going out with friends, for sports or shopping. My favourite places are Siam Square, Chatuchak market and Klong Thom market. I love going to the theatre and cinema, too.

I dress in any style, wear T-shirts and jeans, that kind of thing, though when my band plays I dress punk or rock.

Do you like reading?

I read all kinds of books. I remember the first book I read was "Yen Lom Park", by my dad. I read "Romance of the Three Kingdoms". It showed me how to improve my life. For example, it says that if we know our own and our enemies' strengths and weaknesses, we will win every battle.

Does your father want you to join the Democrat Party?

Yes, he does. He asked me to "do a test" ... cleaning the restrooms, serving coffee, working in reception. If I complete my undergraduate degree, I'll do an internship. I believe that whatever we do, we have to start with the basics.

Will you follow your father into politics?

I want to be a politician, but I'll do what I want to do on my own. I don't want help from Dad or his reputation. That way, people will see my real qualities.

By Budsarakham Sinlapalavan