Sihasak revealed plans to propose to the Cabinet expanding the Thailand-Malaysia border fence to block smuggling of contraband and drugs. He noted the Prime Minister has ordered integrated intelligence sharing and effective local community engagement. He is preparing to fly for talks with Malaysia's Foreign Ministry, supporting the peace talk chief with hopes for progress in peace negotiations.
At 09:14 on 1 Sep 2026 at the 60th Anniversary Celebration International Convention Center, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai Campus, Songkhla Province, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Puangketkaew spoke about the Foreign Ministry's plan to propose the construction of a border fence between Thailand and Malaysia to the Cabinet today. He said this is part of proposals from consultations on addressing issues in the southern border provinces. The plan is to expand the existing fence along the border to better prevent illegal activities like drug trafficking and smuggling of contraband. He emphasized the importance of identifying the root causes and perpetrators. He stressed that security is crucial as it affects confidence and the economy in the southern border provinces.
Sihasak also emphasized the importance of intelligence work, stating that intelligence methods must be accurate. Multiple agencies are involved and their intelligence must be integrated for timely decisions. Community work is also vital. If community engagement improves, authorities can respond more quickly. Such work is long-term and involves engaging younger generations to show them economic opportunities through employment. He said serious economic development is needed in the three southern border provinces, focusing on infrastructure readiness and connectivity by road and rail to link with Malaysia.
Sihasak spoke about cooperation with Malaysia, saying he will travel on 16 September to meet Malaysia's Foreign Minister. They will follow up and expand on issues previously discussed by the two leaders, especially cooperation on border security to jointly promote border economic development.
When asked about recent discussions on improving intelligence work, Sihasak said the Prime Minister has emphasized this issue. Several agencies must integrate their efforts to enable timely decisions. They aim to have a better warning system. Most importantly, events like those on 22-23 August must not recur, as they damage public confidence, investor trust, and local businesses.
Regarding the recent arson attack on an excavator in Yarang District, Pattani Province, last night, Sihasak acknowledged awareness of the incident. He said all aspects must be reviewed, including economic, social, security, and educational development, which should provide opportunities for youth and the younger generation.
When asked if repeated incidents result from officials' complacency, Sihasak said they now understand what steps must be taken next to improve the situation.
Asked if talks with Malaysia's Foreign Minister will advance the appointment of a facilitator for southern border peace talks, Sihasak said there is interest in bringing Tanat Suwannarat, Director of the National Intelligence Agency and head of the southern peace talks, to the meeting. This is to introduce him to Malaysian government leaders and discuss related issues.
When asked if expanding safe zones in the southern border provinces is necessary, Sihasak said it is part of the strategy to create safe areas in 14 districts under the operations of the Special Representative Committee for resolving southern border issues, of which he is chairperson.