Sihasak revealed that Malaysia has appointed a former military intelligence chief to lead the peace talks and is preparing to visit Thailand soon, affirming that everything must be completed within this government’s term.
On 28 Oct 2026 GMT+7 at the Government House, Mr. Sihasak Puangketkaew, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, also chair of the government's special committee on solving problems in the southern border provinces, spoke about his meeting with Dato' Seri Utama Haji Mohamad bin Haji Hassan, Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, during the 16th Joint Commission (JC) on bilateral cooperation. They discussed various topics including trade and investment, but particularly emphasized joint development of the southern border area, such as building the second bridge at Su-ngai Kolok and linking railway systems. They also focused on improving quality of life for residents, sharing the mutual goal of peace in the border region. Regarding peace talks, Malaysia acts as the facilitator and has appointed a new facilitator, a former army intelligence chief familiar with Thai counterparts, expected to visit Thailand soon to discuss next steps. Sihasak affirmed Malaysia’s role as facilitator while Thailand remains the process owner. Talks with the BRN are important since the group is behind many incidents, but discussions also cover local livelihoods, identity, and education. These issues will be addressed with the new facilitator, emphasizing real peace requires engaging local people to understand their needs and involve them fully, as well as talking with other local groups. Thailand plans to keep the process as inclusive as possible.
When asked about the timeline for peace talks, Sihasak said the Malaysian Foreign Minister emphasized the need to complete everything within this government’s term, noting the long-standing nature of the conflict requires cooperation and precise planning. Malaysia also wants to accelerate progress and see tangible results during this administration.