Songkhla: The Prime Minister chaired a meeting to hear the results of a workshop on development in five southern provinces, presenting problems and solutions in four areas. Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul led the workshop at Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya, Songkhla Campus, aimed at gathering opinions, identifying challenges, and proposing development strategies for Songkhla, Satun, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. He highlighted the significance of addressing local issues while aligning with the potential of each area and emphasized the need for practical solutions in economy, society, security, and disaster management. The government plans to integrate these discussions into its official Cabinet meeting.
According to Thai News Agency, representatives from various subgroups including provincial governors, chambers of commerce, and security agencies shared their insights on the four key areas of focus. Economic development highlighted the enhancement of tourism infrastructure and safety standards, recovery from flood impacts, and improvements in agriculture and fisheries. Infrastructure plans include dredging waterways, road construction, and urban planning revisions to support industrial growth.
In the social domain, tackling drug addiction, enhancing public health infrastructure, and labor development are prioritized. Plans include establishing treatment centers, building a second Hat Yai Hospital, and improving workforce skills. Efforts in poverty alleviation involve housing repairs, educational integration, and enhancing databases while upgrading Narathiwat Rajanagarindra University.
Security measures focus on developing smart checkpoints and bolstering sub-district protection units. Collaborative efforts with various agencies aim to prevent youth indoctrination into insurgency. The Ministry of Education is set to collaborate on assessing educational institutions.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul's engagement with Hat Yai's mayor, Mr. Narongporn Na Phatthalung, was also highlighted, showcasing constructive discussions on flood prevention while traveling via an electric bus. The Prime Minister's visit aimed to emphasize sustainable solutions and collaborative efforts, reinforcing the government's commitment to addressing regional challenges effectively.