The Implementation of the Policy for Administration and Economic Development of the Southern Border Provinces of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center: A Case study of Pattani Province from 2019 to 2023

Abstract

This research article examines the implementation of the policy for administration and economic development of the southern border provinces of the Southern Border Provinces Administrative Center (SBPAC), a case study of Pattani province from 2019 to 2023. The technique of qualitative research was employed. Data were collected using the techniques of documentary research, in-depth interview and group interview. Data were analyzed using content analysis techniques. Findings showed that the National Security Council (NSC) was a major organization responsible at the policy level for the Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC). It was the organization responsible at the strategic level for the policy support. The ISOC Region Four was the area-based administration organization. The SBPAC was responsible for budgeting. The interactions in the operations were in the form of a top-down command system. The SBPAC and the ISOC Region Four collaborated under the security framework. The SBPAC and the Office of Provincial Commercial Affairs cooperated regarding local economic enhancement i.e. locating the markets to accommodate agricultural products and promote community products. The achievement of the policy for the administration and economic development in Pattani province could be seen in various important aspects, especially in the development of tourism and community products. Community products such as batik, halal food, local products as well as cultural and religious tourism are promoted and developed to be widely known. The collaboration created networks to conduct economic activities and to strengthen business. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed in “the Model City Policy of the Triangle of Stability, Prosperity, and Sustainability” in order to develop the economy in specific areas. Pattani province was pushed forward to become a model city as an “Agricultural Industry City” with a change of the concept from “Stability Leading Economy” to be “Economy Leading Stability”.