Yala: The Prime Minister has issued new policy directives to the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPC) with a focus on "Understanding, Accessibility, and Development." Accompanied by Mr. Wannor and Mr. Kriengkrai, the Prime Minister expressed hope that the public would understand the government's intentions, emphasizing that the situation cannot continue in its current state. He stressed his aim to assist with ongoing work rather than revisiting past conflicts.
According to Thai News Agency, the Prime Minister, along with Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul and his delegation, visited the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC) in Mueang District, Yala Province, to meet with local government officials. Attendees included high-ranking officials such as Mr. Piyasiri Wattanavarangkul, Secretary-General of SBPAC; Lieutenant General Norathip Poynok, Commander of the 4th Army Region; and other senior military and police commanders, as well as governors from the five southern border provinces.
The Prime Minister stated that the visit aimed to demonstrate the government's commitment to solving issues and fostering development in the southern border provinces. He highlighted the significance of Mr. Wan Muhammad Nor as the Prime Minister's Chief Advisor, considering his expertise and influence in the region as an asset to the government's efforts.
Mr. Anutin outlined the government's approach to addressing problems in the southern border provinces, drawing inspiration from the principles of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX). The strategy of understanding, accessibility, and development is seen as essential for restoring peace in the region. He explained that understanding involves thorough research into the local way of life, accessibility requires direct engagement with the community, and development focuses on sustainable solutions tailored to local needs.
The Prime Minister emphasized that civil servants in the Ministry of Interior should work with modern and timely methods to deal with the interconnected global challenges affecting the SBPC provinces: Satun, Songkhla, Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. He urged all units under the Prime Minister's Office to follow this guideline to ensure the success of the SBPC's mission.
The discussions during the visit are expected to lay out a plan for actions that will benefit both the local communities and the country. The Prime Minister noted the importance of influential figures like Mr. Wannor in supporting these efforts and stressed the need to focus on progress rather than past grievances.
Mr. Anutin reaffirmed that every mission in the area seeks to transform the southern border into a potential opportunity for Thailand, benefiting all citizens, regardless of religious affiliation. The aim is to fully develop the region for national prosperity and improve the economic conditions of its residents, ensuring stable incomes and improved living standards.
The Prime Minister also addressed issues of prejudice, citing an article that reflects on perceptions of Muslim communities. He noted the discrepancy between the positive interactions in daily life and the negative stereotypes that arise in the southern border region, calling for a shift away from prejudiced views and towards understanding and cooperation.