Pattani: Lt. Col. Thammanat Prompao, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, led a delegation of four ministers to Pattani Province to urgently tackle quality of life and agricultural challenges in the southern border provinces. The visit aimed to secure a favorable number of MP seats by addressing pressing regional concerns.

According to Thai News Agency, the visit on November 8, 2015, took place at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus. Lt. Col. Thammanat, accompanied by Professor Dr. Narumon Pinyosinwat, Minister of Education; Mr. Atthakorn Sirilathayakorn, Minister of Tourism and Sports; Mr. Akara Prompao, Minister of Social Development and Human Security; and Mr. Amin Mayuso, Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, engaged with Pattani residents to understand their needs. The delegation was warmly received by Ms. Patimoh Sadiyamu, Governor of Pattani Province, and various local leaders and community members.

Lt. Col. Thammanat assured the community of the government’s dedication to enhancing the quality of life in the southern border provinces. The focus is on job creation, income growth, and improved living standards. The delegation addressed issues in agriculture, fisheries, education, land use, and water management, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to development.

A significant component of the visit was promoting agricultural compliance with Halal standards to boost market opportunities for local products. Efforts are underway to restore unused rice fields and provide land title deeds to farmers, ensuring a stable livelihood for the agricultural community.

In education, the Ministry aims to enhance teaching standards in private schools within the southern border provinces, ensuring equitable educational opportunities for youth comparable to other regions.

The delegation also visited local OTOP product displays, encouraging expansion into broader markets to strengthen the grassroots economy. Water management was highlighted as a critical issue, with plans for a robust system to prevent flooding and support sustainable farming.

Lt. Col. Thammanat emphasized that the primary goal is to improve local livelihoods, enabling stable careers and sustainable family support. As a native of Narathiwat Province, he is acutely aware of the cultural diversity and needs of both Buddhist and Muslim communities. The government aims to create job opportunities, develop agriculture, address educational challenges, and promote sustainable tourism.

Politically, Lt. Col. Thammanat expressed confidence in gaining the trust of the southern border provinces, aiming for a satisfactory number of MP seats in future elections.