The Government has reaffirmed its intention to give a major boost to tourism activities in the southern border provinces, so that they will have greater opportunities to attract more tourist arrivals and generate more income.

Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Srettha Thavisin is leading a team of Cabinet members and government officials to visit Pattani, Yala, and Pattani provinces on 27-29 February 2024, in an effort to develop the tourism industry in the deep South and stimulate the local economy.

During his visit to the central mosque in Pattani and met religious leaders, the Prime Minister assigned the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center to look into improving public utilities in all mosques in the deep South.

He also visited various local tourist attractions, such as Krue Se (Kersih) Mosque, Chao Mae Lim Ko Niao Shrine, and a community market, where he talked to local leaders, women’s groups, and community tourism groups.

The Prime Minister stated that the Government was ready to develop the halal industrial estate in the South and establish a halal industrial center in order to expand Thailand’s halal markets and promote Thailand as a halal kitchen of the world.

The Cabinet, during its meeting on 27 February 2024, acknowledged guidelines for driving Thailand’s halal industry in a bid to develop Thailand into the “ASEAN Halal Hub,” following a proposal by the Ministry of Industry. The ministry also worked out a five-year action plan (2024-2028) to develop the Thai halal industry and proposed the establishment of the National Halal Industrial Committee.

The three southern border provinces have great potential for the expansion of markets for halal businesses and services. They also boast many cultural and eco-tourist attractions, where visitors may explore and appreciate cultural and historical significance, as well as natural beauty.