NARATHIWAT/PATTANI, Thailand – The Internal Security Operations Command’s 5th Operations Coordination Center organized the second Peace-Building Media Tour from August 25 to 27, taking media representatives to Narathiwat and Pattani to observe conditions in the southern border provinces. The program involved security operations, local development, education, and peaceful coexistence in multicultural communities.
Led by Lt. Gen. Prasert Muadjienga, the center’s director-general, the delegation began at Princess of Naradhiwas University, where participants observed aircraft maintenance training and learned about employment opportunities for local students. They also visited the Buke Ta customs checkpoint in Waeng district to examine border geography, security challenges, and future operational plans.
At the Sukhirin District Office, the media learned about tourism development and coexistence among Thai, Malay, and Isan communities. The delegation then visited Ban Chulabhorn Pattana 12 to explore its historical links to the Communist Party of Malaya and experience traditional gold panning, a source of livelihood for residents.
The Royal Thai Navy also briefed participants on its role in addressing regional issues, including intelligence operations and behavior-modification programs for high-risk youth. A local Islamic religious leader advocated peaceful solutions during a discussion session. The delegation later paid respects to Luang Pho Daeng at Wat Cho-ngae, Bacho district. The tour concluded at Maahad Darul Uloom Addiniyah-Pondok Mapat Pattani, where the media met administrators, students, and representatives of the Peace Building and Education Driving Centers and observed education in the traditional Pondok system. (NNT)
