PUTRAJAYA, 18th July 2024. An enlightening lecture session was held at HIKMAT Hall, featuring General Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Panglima Ts. Hj Zulkifli bin Hj Zainal Abidin (R), the Malaysia Government Facilitator for the Peace Dialogue Process in Southern Thailand. The course participants of the Malaysian Command and Staff Course (Joint) MCSCJ Serial 53/2024 were honoured to have a lecture on the topic of “Peace Process in Southern Thailand, Impact toward Security and Development at Malaysia-Thailand Border Region” as part of the KAJIAN KESELAMATAN (KAJIMATAN) module.

General Zulkifli discussed the multifaceted approach that was required to foster peace, involving diplomatic negotiations, socio-economic initiatives and grassroot engagements. He commended the efforts taken by the Thai government, local leaders and mediators in working towards achieving a comprehensive peace agreement. Addressing root causes such as poverty, lack of education and political marginalisation, was among what he mentioned and explained those things being essential for achieving lasting peace. Improved security in Southern Thailand is necessary as it directly contributes to a safer border, reducing the risks of the transborder crimes, smuggling and insurgency related activities. Improved security environment was crucial to promote economic activities and development projects in the region.

A key highlight of the event was the engaging question and answer session, where the audience exhibited a deep understanding and keen interest on the topic. General Zulkifli praised the insightful and thoughtful questions posed by the course participants, which covered various aspects that relate to the peace agreements, the role of regional organisations like ASEAN and the socio-economic impacts on local communities.

As the session concluded, it was evident that the path to peace in Southern Thailand was closely linked to the security and development prospects of the border regions, promising a brighter, more secure and economically vibrant future for both Malaysia and Thailand.