Conflict in Southern Thailand: Historical perspectives

• Main Authors: Abdul Ghani, Ahmad Bashawir, Laewsom, Chumphom
• Format: Conference or Workshop Item
• Language: English
• Published: 2011
• Subjects: DS Asia
• Online Access: http://repo.uum.edu.my/8704/1/7.pdf; http://repo.uum.edu.my/8704/; http://lintas.uum.edu.my:8080/elmu/index.jsp?module=webopac-l&action=fullDisplayRetriever.jsp&szMaterialNo=0000778103

In the southern border provinces of Thailand, especially Pattani, Yalaa and Narathiwat, there are two religious groups of people, Thai Muslims and Buddhists.However, the percentage of Thai Muslims is higher than Thai Buddhists. The historical differences of race, culture and religion may have contributed to the ethnic conflict between the state and Thai Muslims for decades.The lack of knowledge in relation to understanding Muslims religious way of life, Muslims were coerced directly or indirectly to act as Thai Buddhists by the Thai government. This is found to be one of the biggest conundrum and pressing issues Thai governments should address and find an amicable solution urgently. Additionally, it is essential to note that historical perspectives of Pattani state is completely different from both side, this can lead to potentially political conflict in this area.Therefore, the government should rewrite a new paradigm by cooperating with all groups of people involve this conflict.If the majority of people could accept the recognition of diversity and promote unity, ‘eventually’ this will result ‘in peaceful coexistence’.