by AKMAR ANNUAR / pic TMR FILE

THE peace negotiations between the Thai government and armed separatists to end the decades-long conflict in the southern provinces is progressing, said Malaysian Chief Facilitator for the Peace Dialogue Process, Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin (picture).

He said the Peace Dialogue Panel for the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand (PEDP) has agreed to have two technical meetings in February and March this year, another step towards reconciliation of the Thai government and National Revolutionary Front (BRN),

The 7th official meeting of the peace dialogue process, which was held on Feb 6- 7, was aimed to address conflict root causes, build trust among involved parties.

“The two-day official meeting, which concluded today, has successfully achieved their objectives, which were threefold.

“Firstly, extensive discussions were held on the future direction of the peace dialogue for southern Thailand, leading to the recognition of the substantial work ahead,” he told a press conference after the meeting concluded in Kuala Lumpur.

Zulkifly added that both sides also agreed to convene two technical meetings to further refine the Joint Comprehensive Plan Towards Peace (JCPP), with a revised version submitted by the PDEP.

The chief facilitator added that while there is initial agreement on the improved version, further deliberation is needed during the technical discussions. 

Lastly, he noted that there was a huge commitment from the PDP to enhance the security environment in southern Thailand, which was endorsed with a focus on transparency and mutual benefit.

PEDP was represented by the Thai government’s new chief negotiator, Chatchai Bangchaud and BRN’s representative, Ustaz Anas Abdulrahman.

“The meeting focused on the JCPP roadmap,” Anas affirmed.

The PEDP and BRN have tentatively agreed on the JCPP, to be officially approved soon, while plans for creating a favourable environment will be deliberated by both parties’ Technical Teams in February (dates to be announced soon) and March 7 & 8.

Additionally, both panels emphasised the importance of inclusivity in the dialogue process, ensuring involvement of various stakeholders such as government representatives, local communities, and relevant NGOs. 

Overall, Zulkfili highlighted that there is satisfaction with the outcomes of the dialogue, marking a significant breakthrough after a year-long hiatus caused by electoral processes.

To recap, the issue revolves around the ongoing efforts to facilitate dialogue and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict in southern Thailand, which has been marked by violence and insurgency. 

Malaysia has played a crucial role as a mediator in these talks, aiming to bring together the Thai government and separatist groups to negotiate a settlement. 

The JCPP encompasses three key areas: reducing violence, engaging in public consultations, and seeking political solutions.