Sihasak chaired the Strategic Committee on Southern Border Provinces Development (SCSPD) meeting, urging thorough screening of projects to ensure policy unity and cost-effective budgeting. He revealed Malaysia's reaffirmed support for the peace dialogue process and preparations to consider a new facilitator.
At 13:25 on 11 Sep 2026 GMT+7, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sihasak Puangketkaew spoke to reporters at Government House before chairing the first SCSPD meeting of 2026. He said today’s discussion would cover the situation in the three southern border provinces, acknowledging recent incidents. Everyone understands that the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC) focuses on economic development in the area and has various projects to propose for approval. These projects must be carefully reviewed to ensure policy coherence, not just isolated initiatives from different agencies. They should be interconnected, prioritizing urgent needs, especially infrastructure, which is critical, along with education and community-related work, which are equally important.
He urged the committee to deliberate policy matters comprehensively and evaluate projects thoroughly to ensure proper screening. This guarantees that budget allocation in the area delivers real benefits and value for money. Regarding security, the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC), education, and foreign affairs—particularly Malaysia’s role as facilitator in the southern border peace talks—must be discussed and considered holistically.
Asked as chair of the government’s special delegation on southern border issues whether security or development should come first, Sihasak said, that currently public safety, including that of the private sector in the area, is paramount. Such incidents must not be allowed to recur. However, sustainable solutions require addressing all dimensions; security alone is insufficient. The feelings of local people, provision of justice, and ultimately the approach of His Majesty King Rama IX remain important guiding principles.
When asked about his view on the peace talk approach, Sihasak stated, that Malaysia will appoint a new facilitator. He emphasized the facilitator must genuinely ease the process and represent the Malaysian government’s stance, not just act as a neutral mediator. Malaysia has confirmed its support for the dialogue.
Meanwhile, discussions continue on immediate border security issues, including necessary fencing. This is not intended to block movement indiscriminately but to address illegal activities and crime at certain points. He assured there would be no redundant fences; physical barriers will be supplemented with cameras and electronic systems for monitoring movements. This fence will differ from the Thai-Cambodian border style. Intelligence cooperation is also emphasized, with Malaysia assuring it will not allow its territory to be used to undermine security.
When asked about Malaysia’s timeline for naming the new facilitator, Sihasak said internal discussions are ongoing and the appointment is imminent. Regarding cross-border fugitives, he stated that warrants have been issued and follow-up is underway.
On questions about repeated attacks despite security forces’ crackdowns, Sihasak said security agencies must take action against those involved. Asked about administrative adjustments, he replied the framework is to prevent such incidents from recurring, ensure arrests of perpetrators, maintain effective early warning systems, and have proper preparedness measures.