Peace In Southern Thailand Improving, Malaysia's Cooperation Appreciated – ISOC4

From Noraizura Ahmad

NARATHIWAT, July 2 (Bernama) -- The peace process in southern Thailand is showing positive strides thanks to the peaceful strategies employed by the kingdom’s Internal Security Operations Command Region 4 (ISOC4) of the Thai Army, backed by various parties, including Malaysia.

ISOC4 Peace Operations Centre Director Maj Gen Chalermchai Suthinuan said the integrated approach, focusing on community well-being and socioeconomic development, has reduced incidents of violence and improved understanding among residents in the conflict-affected region.

"ISOC4 not only focuses on security control but also engages with the community, from children to adults and the elderly, through peaceful outreach and education.

"We implement this policy through nine key pillars: building good character, positive thinking, individual income, good health, environmental sustainability, a peaceful and crime-free society," he told Bernama here today.

Although he has only served as ISOC4 director for a year, Chalermchai, who has lived in southern Thailand for over 20 years, said ISOC4 also focuses on five key areas, namely maintaining territorial control to prevent incidents, minimal law enforcement, managing drug-related issues, promoting multicultural community living, and integrating development with security efforts.

"ISOC4 does not operate alone, but is also backed by other agencies such as the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC).

"Our duty is to build understanding among the people and ensure every government policy promotes the rejection of violence," he said.

Chalermchai added that despite several challenges in maintaining harmony in southern Thailand, they are seeing positive changes as the community becomes increasingly aware of the importance of peace and stability.

He said the people are beginning to realise that lasting peace brings benefits to local communities and helps boost the economy.

Commenting on cooperation with Malaysia, he described joint efforts, especially in border areas, as excellent, with Malaysia playing an active role in strengthening peace-building initiatives in the region.

"Malaysia's cooperation has been excellent, including through joint training and programmes. More importantly, Malaysia is currently the ASEAN Chair; naturally, they want to see peace in this region," he said, adding that the construction of the second bridge over Sungai Golok is a symbol of the close cooperation between both countries.

Chalermchai also expressed hope that media reports, especially on social media, will be more accurate and not mislead the public in understanding the actual situation in the southern provinces.

"I believe every government wants its people to reject violence. Now, we see more and more people doing so, and our daily hope is to see this area become more peaceful," he said.

ISOC4 is the primary implementing unit under Thailand's 4th Army, leading efforts to restore and maintain peace in southern Thailand.

-- BERNAMA