Advanced English skills allow job seekers to apply for better jobs and raise their living standards.
"We are already seeing an influx of skilled workers from countries like the Philippines, who are replacing Thais in jobs that require English-speaking employees," Mr Treenuch said.
Staff positions at the Regent Phuket Cape Panwa, where 95% of hotel guests are foreigners, are open to all nationalities, according to manager Witchuda Mas-o-sot.
"The ability to communicate in English is the most important skill to have," Ms Witchuda said.
An unemployed recent hotel management graduate expressed concerns that his difficulty in finding a job will become even more apparent once the integrated Asean market is open. Others, like Ms Boblyn the Filipino intern, will benefit.
"I speak English more fluently than Thais do," she said. "That is my competitive