Multicultural Policy Strengthens Unity In Southern Thailand - Narathiwat Vice Governor

By Muhammad Afiq Mohd Asri & Adnan Mohamad

NARATHIWAT, Nov 3 (Bernama) -- An approach rooted in cultural acceptance and religious understanding has become the cornerstone of efforts to strengthen unity among communities in southern Thailand, a region long affected by ethnic and religious tensions.

According to the Vice Governor of Narathiwat Province, Wichan Chaisetsumpan, the government’s multicultural policy is built on the principles of dignity, equality, and mutual respect among people of different faiths and ethnic backgrounds, with the aim of fostering balanced and harmonious coexistence.

“People must learn to live together on the basis of dignity and equality while respecting the values of every religion and ethnicity. This is vital in rebuilding trust and reinforcing unity in the southern region,” he told the Malaysian media through a local interpreter during a recent special interview session.

He explained that the policy also underlines the importance of preserving local languages, culture and education, as well as instilling moral and ethical values among the younger generation in accordance with their respective faiths.

“Religion should not be a dividing factor. Followers of the same faith may speak different languages or practise different cultures, yet every religion teaches people to be good human beings,” he said.

Wichan noted that although the majority of residents in southern Thailand are Muslims of Malay descent, they are still able to interact harmoniously with the Buddhist community without any issues, as the local language and culture continue to serve as bonds that unite them.

“Language and culture are the main ties that bind. What matters most is creating shared spaces between communities to address coexistence issues in the southern border provinces,” he said.

According to Wichan, understanding local culture is especially important for government officials stationed in the region, who act as intermediaries between the central government and local residents.

“Government officers must understand the local way of life and community needs so that the solutions they design are realistic and acceptable to the people. This approach will help reshape the southern border region as an area that celebrates religious diversity,” he said.

He added that the Thai government also encourages citizens to live in accordance with their respective religious teachings, while adapting laws and regulations to suit local realities.

“There must be no cultural discrimination. Instead, everyone should respect one another’s traditions and way of life so that all citizens feel they are part of this nation,” he said.

The Vice Governor emphasised that Thailand guarantees full religious freedom, including in the southern provinces, where Islamic law governs matters such as marriage, divorce, and inheritance.

“This enables Muslims to live in accordance with their faith without affecting the rights of followers of other religions,” he said.

Wichan also pointed to recent policy adjustments that respect local customs, such as permitting Muslim female students to wear the hijab in schools, as examples of the government’s sensitivity to cultural and religious practices.

“Such measures reflect the government’s genuine concern for local sensitivities and its commitment to ensuring that all citizens feel valued,” he said.

He concluded that the multicultural policy not only strengthens social harmony but also serves as the foundation for developing southern Thailand into a peaceful and inclusive region.

“When every community feels appreciated, accepted and included, the peace achieved will be genuine and enduring,” he added.

-- BERNAMA