Bangkok: Thai Prime Minister Sihasak Srimuang announced that Thailand and Malaysia are working together to construct a security fence and exchange intelligence to foster peace in southern Thailand. He emphasized Malaysia's ongoing process of appointing a new facilitator while urging the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) to cease violence and engage in peaceful negotiations.
According to Thai News Agency, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkaew provided insights following discussions with Dato' Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hassan, the Malaysian Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dato' Raja Nur Chirwan bin Zainal Abidin, Secretary-General of Malaysia's National Security Council. These discussions aimed to reinforce cooperation in addressing issues in the southern border provinces, following a meeting between the Thai and Malaysian Prime Ministers in early July. The talks also addressed recent unrest in the region, particularly incidents on July 22nd and August 22nd, which have raised concerns about public safety.
The meetings highlighted two primary areas of focus: enhancing joint border security and initiating border area development. Both nations agreed to collaborate on a security fence project, with Malaysia's existing plans serving as a foundation. Efforts will be concentrated on preventing transnational crime and drug trafficking by covering sensitive areas. Additionally, both countries committed to improving intelligence sharing to promote accurate and timely decision-making in addressing various situations.
The responsibility for joint military patrols lies with the Regional Border Committee (RBC) and the General Border Committee (GBC) frameworks. Mr. Sihasak also underscored the importance of sustainable economic development, with infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and rail systems to be reviewed and integrated at upcoming Joint Committee (JC) and Border Area Development Strategy Committee meetings.
Concerning peace talks in the southern border provinces, Mr. Sihasak confirmed Thailand's readiness, with Mr. Thanat Suwannanon, Director of the National Intelligence Agency, leading the Thai negotiation team. Malaysia, meanwhile, is in the process of selecting a suitable new facilitator. The Thai government emphasized the need for calm in the region to progress with talks, urging BRN factions to unite in ending violence and encouraging public participation in the peace process, aiming to reduce unrest by 2027.
Mr. Sihasak reiterated Malaysia's stance that Thailand's security is inherently linked to its own, assuring that Malaysia will not permit insurgent groups to compromise Thailand's security. The Thai government is accelerating efforts to ensure safety and enhance the quality of life for residents in the southern region.
The Deputy Prime Minister described the discussions with Malaysia as positive, highlighting an open and honest approach to identifying areas for concern and collaboration, particularly concerning recent unrest. Both nations affirmed their commitment to border security, with Malaysia asserting its intentions to prevent any misuse of its territory against Thailand.
Mr. Sihasak assured residents of the southern border provinces that the government remains committed to King Rama IX's principles-reaching out to, understanding, and developing the local population, while ensuring regional safety and security. He stressed the importance of integrating economic initiatives to benefit the local population, focusing on education and identity by appointing suitable personnel to the area, in collaboration with Malaysia.
When questioned about the possibility of granting self-government as a solution to the unrest, Mr. Sihasak stressed the government's responsiveness to the needs of the local population, prioritizing security and quality of life improvements. He emphasized openness to diverse perspectives in long-term planning, with the current priority being the establishment of confidence in safety and well-being among the people.