{"version":"https:\/\/jsonfeed.org\/version\/1","title":"Deep South","home_page_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th","feed_url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/index\/id\/50","items":[{"id":"b97403e873911febd78c725652439543","title":"Opening of the New CIQ Sadao - ICQS Bukit Kayu Hitam Road Alignment ","content_text":"

Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, have co-presided over the official opening of the new Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (CIQ) Sadao checkpoint - the Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint road alignment at the border crossing point.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The official opening took place on 10 July 2026 on the sidelines of the Prime Minister’s official visit to Malaysia, before the Thai and Malaysian leaders joined a working lunch on the Malaysian side of the border.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The new CIQ Sadao is located in Songkhla province. Prime Minister Anutin emphasized that the road alignment symbolizes close and cordial relations between Thailand and Malaysia, and a shared vision for seamless multimodal border connectivity. He also thanked the Malaysian side for its cooperation in facilitating cross-border travel and transport, reducing heavy congestion at this checkpoint. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Both leaders also placed importance on expanding connectivity and ensuring smooth facilitation at border checkpoints to develop the southern border provinces of Thailand and the northern states of Malaysia. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Sadao - Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint is the busiest between Thailand and Malaysia, with the highest volume of cross-border traffic of people and goods. It is also the border checkpoint with the highest cross-border trade value in Thailand, totaling more than 482,000 million baht (approximately 14,500 million USD).<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

In addition, the Prime Minister accepted a grant from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to support relief and recovery efforts following the previous severe flooding in Hat Yai, Songkhla Province, at the border crossing point.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/521000","date_published":"2026-07-11T11:15:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202607115e9661d9710184391d089e043e4455a0114517.jpeg"},{"id":"49427f8b7fd3be3abca6ca89b23e3fe0","title":"Prime Minister Hands Down Key Policies to Drive the Development and Security of the Deep South","content_text":"

Prime Minister Anutin Charnviraku has handed down eight key policies to drive the development and security of the southern border provinces to the governors of Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat, Satun, and Songkhla, as well as heads of government agencies in the deep South.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Prime Minister on 10 July 2026 chaired a meeting to deliver the policies at the Signature Hotel Airport in Songkhla, after his official visit to Malaysia and the joint inauguration of the new CIQ Sadao - ICQS Bukit Kayu Hitam road alignment.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The eight policy directives are as follows:<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

1. To maintain maximum security by proactively integrating the operations of all local security units and leaving no areas unreached by the state;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

2. To upgrade Intelligence by linking information across all agencies and building a reliable reporting system that the public trusts;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

3. To uphold the law, fairness, and human right principles and avoid creating new conflict conditions;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

4. To suppress narcotic drugs through the "Operation 90 Days" campaign by cutting off drug trafficking networks and protecting youth;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

5. To upgrade the management of the southern border provinces, facilitate border trade and travel, and suppress transnational crimes;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

6. To develop the economy, people’s quality of life, and security, linking the southern economy to neighboring Malaysian states;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

7. To use the southern region's cultural diversity as a tool for creating a better understanding among the people, promoting fairness, and encouraging public participation;<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

8. To designate a lead agency in handling each problem, with clear assignment of responsibilities and consistent reporting.  <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

In a joint statement issued during Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul’s official visit to Malaysia on 9-10 July 2026 at the invitation of Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, both sides discussed the latest developments in the southern border provinces of Thailand and pledged continued support for the peace dialogue process in the border provinces, which aims at achieving lasting peace, security, and prosperity in the provinces. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Prime Minister of Thailand expressed his appreciation to the Prime Minister of Malaysia for Malaysia's sincere and constructive role in facilitating the peace process. Both sides also agreed to enhance cooperation to prevent acts of violence and bring perpetrators to justice.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/520957","date_published":"2026-07-10T22:17:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202607104725bcc90080b5741b4a8f17bc2f5aae222601.jpeg"},{"id":"1d513ff2f61120e74817414b25af1741","title":"Promoting Peace and Sustainable Development in the Deep South","content_text":"

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Phuangketkeow on 20 May 2026 traveled to Yala Province to inspect the operations of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC) and provide policy guidance to various agencies involved in peacebuilding in the deep South.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Mr. Sihasak, in his capacity as the Deputy Prime Minister overseeing SBPAC, was received by officials and representatives from relevant agencies and attended a meeting at the SBPAC headquarters in Yala.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Deputy Prime Minister received a briefing on the structure, mandate, and operational achievements of the SBPAC, as well as the security situation along the Thai-Malaysian border. Discussions also covered progress in advancing development cooperation between Thailand’s southern border provinces and the neighboring Malaysian border states under the “Twin Cities” initiative, aimed at enhancing economic connectivity, trade, and the quality of life of people living in the border areas.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The meeting further discussed approaches to strengthening Thailand-Malaysia relations and enhancing border trade connectivity, as well as advancing development efforts in the southern border provinces in a continuous and tangible manner. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of integrated cooperation among government agencies, the private sector, and civil society in promoting peace and sustainable development in the area.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

On this occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister joined a luncheon meeting with the Southern Border Business Network to exchange views and receive recommendations on promoting economic potential, industry, trade, and investment; supporting young entrepreneurs; addressing flood-related challenges; and developing tourist attractions in the southern border provinces. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Discussions also covered infrastructure development and connectivity between the southern border provinces and other regions of Thailand and Malaysia. The luncheon was organized by Luuk Riang Group (Association of Children and Youth for the Peace in the Deep South), which showcased local ingredients to promote the identity and culture of the southern border region through cuisine. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The event served as an example of support for local entrepreneurs and contributed to fostering sustainable peace and mutual understanding in the area, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/505359","date_published":"2026-05-21T17:27:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260521b84be471f24cad28df164247e619ee75190930.jpeg"},{"id":"508990084ff315011ae098b78f6825cd","title":"Government Stresses Its Adoption of King Rama IX's Wise Advice for Peacebuilding in the Deep South","content_text":"

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul, during his inspection of the deep South on 17 April 2026, stressed the Government’s policy of adopting King Rama IX’s royal advice to “understand, reach out, and develop” for peacebuilding in the southern border provinces.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Prime Minister attended a meeting with governors of the five southern border provinces at the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center in Yala Province to provide policy directions on the resolving of problems in the deep South.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The royal advice to understand, reach out, and develop was spelled out by King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great in February 2004, after the southern unrest had erupted the month before, in January. It is meant to encourage responsible officials to seek a better understanding about the problems, then to win the hearts of local people, and carry out development for them by taking account of the local environment in terms of physical, sociological, and cultural conditions.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Prime Minister stated that the royal advice, which is the central strategy to tackle unrest in the southern border provinces, must be carried out together with efforts to develop the local people’s quality of life, bringing about peace, happiness, and economic progress.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

On the same day, the Prime Minister proceeded to Pattani Province to chair a meeting at the Fourth Army Area Command’s Internal Security Operations Command, Forward, in order to follow up on the security situation in the deep South. At the meeting, he approved construction of border fences in Tak Bai and Waeng districts in Narathiwat Province in order to prevent smuggling, improve the efficiency of arresting wrongdoers, reduce the frequency of violent incidents, and create confidence among local residents. The Government will use the central fund of 2026 to support the first phase of the construction project.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Prime Minister urged local officials, communities, and religious leaders to work closely together for drug prevention and control, especially the spread of narcotics among young people. More importantly, government officials at all levels must not be involved in drug trafficking. Strict legal action and disciplinary punishment will be taken against violators.  <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

He also asked the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center to work with relevant agencies in formulating plans on renewable energy and energy saving, as well as pushing for the introduction of clean energy and appropriate alternative energy, such as community solar cells and biomass, in order to build energy security for the people.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/495569","date_published":"2026-04-18T17:30:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260418a09d83d28ebf1e8c8f668281d4281b31181257.jpeg"},{"id":"f2efdc499c828cac813b937c9870e840","title":"UNDP, EU Reps Visit Narathiwat to Advance SDGs","content_text":"

A delegation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and representatives from the European Union have visited Narathiwat province to assess local development and explore cooperation on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. The visit was led by UNDP Thailand Resident Representative Niamh Collier-Smith, alongside provincial officials and agency representatives.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The delegation reviewed progress under the SDG Localization Phase 2 program, which supports community-level development across Thailand. Local authorities presented efforts to align provincial strategies with sustainability targets, with participation from both government agencies and community groups.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Officials toured key sites across Narathiwat municipality, including historic districts, cultural landmarks, and waterfront areas linked to the province’s heritage. The visit included the old town area, traditional architecture, and locations tied to past river transport and pilgrimage routes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

The delegation also engaged with local communities, observing traditional livelihoods such as food production and boat building, as well as visiting social welfare facilities. The visits provided insight into local economic activity and community resilience, promoting the southern province as a cultural tourism destination supported by strong local participation. <\/p>\r\n\r\n

Narathiwat is currently being developed as a model for community-based growth aligned with international sustainability goals.\"\"<\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/489180","date_published":"2026-03-27T14:18:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/202603275b5fa4b0a56b777ca66754eaecdead1c142025.jpg"},{"id":"b4eede8dd6d423968aa931989f9704d9","title":"Seminar on Integrating Human and Traditional Security Lessons for Southern Border Provinces","content_text":"

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has organized an academic seminar entitled “Lessons Learned on Security through the Integration of Human Security and Traditional Security in the Context of Thailand’s Southern Border Provinces.”<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The seminar took place on 5 March 2026 at Narathip Hall, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Bangkok. It was moderated by Associate Professor Surachart Horachaikul, Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University. Distinguished speakers included Assistant Professor Dr. Panupat Jittieng, Deputy Dean of the Faculty of Political Science, Chulalongkorn University; Assistant Professor Dr. Pailin Kittiserichai, Faculty of Social Sciences, Kasetsart University; and Mr. Chairat Sirivat, former Ambassador attached to the Ministry. The event was attended by more than 150 participants, including representatives from government agencies, civil society, and university students.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

During the seminar, the speakers examined lessons learned from several international case studies, including the conflict between the Sultanate of Oman and the Dhofar insurgency, internal conflict arising from apartheid policies in the Republic of South Africa, and the conflict between the Government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC). These cases illustrate conflicts that emerged from power imbalances between governments and dissenting groups, particularly regarding political participation, socio-economic development, and access to resources, which in turn led to resistance against the state and the use of violence.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The exchange of views on these case studies provided participants with insights into systematic approaches to violence reduction and conflict management. The speakers emphasized the importance of integrated measures encompassing security, development, confidence-building between the state and the public, and the design of appropriate dialogue processes.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

In addition, participants discussed the importance of maintaining a balance between traditional security, which focuses on safeguarding the safety and stability of the state, and human security, which prioritizes quality of life, justice, and public trust. Both dimensions must be pursued in a coordinated and complementary manner in order to achieve sustainable long-term stability. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The speakers also underscored the importance of effective public communication and strong political will to resolve conflicts through peaceful means, including both formal and informal negotiation processes. These lessons may serve as useful case studies for developing approaches for Thailand.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the seminar reflected its commitment to promoting an integrated approach to development and security, and highlighted its role in supporting human resource development and fostering international understanding on issues related to development in Thailand’s southern border provinces.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/484514","date_published":"2026-03-11T21:04:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260312fb3f05e54b4ed2f8fc5266ecc2336a83093337.jpg"},{"id":"63b8bd2b3f96b8370b4d714c3897b103","title":"Youths from the Deep South Provided with Opportunities to Learn More about Thai Culture and Diversity ","content_text":"

The Fifth Operations Coordination Center, Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), has organized the project “Peace Railway,” bringing 80 youths from the southern border provinces to travel by train to important historical and cultural sites in Nakhon Si Thammarat Province, Nakhon Pathom Province, and Bangkok.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The project was carried out between 30 January and 3 February 2026 to provide the youths with opportunities to learn more about Thailand’s history, culture, and local wisdom, while exchanging views and experiences with one another.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

It was arranged under the theme “Peace Railway: From the Langkasuka Kingdom through the Srivijaya and Dvaravati Eras to the Rattanakosin Period.” It also aimed to promote better understanding of Thailand’s cultural and religious diversity, as well as unity and peaceful coexistence.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Director of the Fifth Operations Coordination Center of ISOC Lieutenant General Prasert Muatchiangka presided over the closing ceremony of the Peace Railway project at the Army Club in Bangkok on 2 February. The ceremony was also attended by Minister of the Royal Thai Embassy in Madrid Pornpimol Sugandhavanija (attached to the Office of the Permanent Secretary), as representative from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

During the ceremony, a video presentation on the project was shown, followed by sharing of experiences by the participating youths. The event also featured cultural performances from the southern border provinces, as well as exhibitions on the Royal Projects and the history of the State Railway of Thailand, reflecting Thailand’s history, culture, and diversity.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs met with the youths and shared information on programs and activities, organized by the ministry to support young people from the southern border provinces and across the country. <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

These include English language camps, domestic study visits to learn about Thai culture and diversity, and internship opportunities at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

 <\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/473892","date_published":"2026-02-06T22:53:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260206731aa82784390a2143794fc973488118235203.jpeg"},{"id":"46d2f23470a65f9da0c906ea95f8a68d","title":"Local Authorities Urgently Provide Assistance to People Affected by Unrest in the Deep South","content_text":"

Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul has instructed local authorities to urgently provide assistance to people affected by bomb and arson attacks on 11 petrol stations in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat in the early hours of 11 January 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

As the security situation had been brought under control, the Narathiwat Task Force on 12 January issued an announcement lifting the previously imposed curfew prohibiting people in Narathiwat from leaving their homes between 21.00 and 05.00 hr, under the Martial Law Act B.E. 2457 (1914).<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The decision is intended to allow local residents to continue their normal lives, ease inconveniences, boost local economic development, and promote tourism in the deep South.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

According to the Internal Security Operations Forward Command of the Fourth Army Area, the Prime Minister ordered the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC) to assign its personnel to work closely with provincial and district officials to survey damaged property and speed up compensation for those affected, both local residents and entrepreneurs.  <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

SBPAC was told to periodically report progress of its operations in this matter to the Prime Minister, while security agencies were instructed to track down and arrest the perpetrators for prosecution as soon as possible. Moreover, all relevant agencies were ordered to restore confidence of people in and outside the deep South.  <\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

The Internal Security Operations Forward Command of the Fourth Army Area stated that progress had been made on the tracking down of the perpetrators. It also condemned the violent acts, saying that these violations of the law threatened public safety, destroyed local economic infrastructure, and worsened the situation for local people as they only recently faced a flooding disaster.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Based on investigations, it is believed that the violent acts have been launched by those who have contrary views in the three southern border provinces.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/465264","date_published":"2026-01-13T22:08:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260113ea315b300f04e213f7f977b14ded957c223908.jpeg"},{"id":"85148e2f746cc0d1eabc409e758a656d","title":"Enforcement of Martial Law across All Districts of Narathiwat Province","content_text":"

The Narathiwat Task Force has announced the enforcement of martial law across all districts of Narathiwat Province, in accordance with previous announcements and a Royal Command, in order to maintain peace and order and strengthen the protection of local residents’ lives and property.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Authorities have also stepped up security measures at border crossing points along the Thailand–Malaysia border, tightening controls on the entry and exit of all types of vehicles, the movement of people, and the trade of all goods by both Thai and foreign nationals.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

In addition, a curfew has been imposed in Narathiwat Province from 21:00 to 05:00 hr, except in cases of urgent necessity. Individuals requiring travel during curfew hours must seek permission from military, police, or local administrative officials in the area.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/464462","date_published":"2026-01-11T17:10:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260111d209becd3783657c67bb384089a1d9df181144.jpeg"},{"id":"cccd92960445d417ed4ebecaa2459c6c","title":"Security Agencies Step Up Measures After Attacks on Petrol Stations in Southern Border Provinces","content_text":"

Security agencies have secured affected areas and launched detailed investigations following arson and explosive attacks at petrol stations in several locations across Thailand’s southern border provinces on 10 January 2026.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Authorities have conducted site inspections and collected forensic evidence to identify those responsible and bring them to justice in accordance with the law.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Lieutenant General Norathip Poinok, Fourth Army Area Commander and Director of the Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 (ISOC Region 4), has ordered security measures raised to the highest level. All units have been instructed to remain on full alert and respond immediately to any emerging incidents.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

An urgent coordination meeting was also held among relevant agencies to strengthen integrated operations, ensure rapid information sharing, and enhance preventive measures in the area.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n\r\n

Authorities have urged the public to remain calm and follow updates only through official government channels. Local residents are advised to stay vigilant, exercise caution when travelling, and report any suspicious persons or objects via ISOC security hotlines 1341 and 1374, available free of charge, 24 hours a day.<\/strong><\/p>\r\n","url":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/content\/category\/detail\/id\/50\/iid\/464461","date_published":"2026-01-11T16:56:00","image":"https:\/\/thailand.prd.go.th\/en\/file\/get\/file\/20260111c3a819b5bde0de16171695bf9d585cc6181304.jpeg"}]}