National Security Council (NSC) deputy secretary-general Chatchai Bangchuad expresses confidence that the ongoing peace talks between the Thai government and the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN), a separatist group, will yield fruitful results now that a new facilitator has been appointed. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim selected Datuk Mohd Rabin Bin Basir, the former director-general of Malaysia’s National Security Council, to succeed Gen Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Zulkiflei Mohd Zin as the peace talks facilitator on July 1.
Reports suggest that Gen Sri Zulkiflei’s tenure was cut short due to his overly stringent approach, which was perceived as an impediment to progress. With his term nearing its end, the Malaysian government found it opportune to appoint someone new. In stark contrast, Mr. Mohd Rabin operates directly under Prime Minister Anwar’s command, adding a layer of urgency and determination to the proceedings.
Mr. Chatchai, who spearheads the Thai government’s negotiation efforts, revealed to the Bangkok Post that he has already met with Mr. Mohd Rabin to discuss plans for the forthcoming peace talks. According to him, the new facilitator shows a commendable commitment to making the negotiations successful. He described Mr. Mohd Rabin as an open-minded and adaptable individual, eager to make the talks constructive.
Mr. Mohd Rabin advocates for genuine interaction between the Thai negotiation team and the BRN. This, he believes, will lay the foundation for meaningful outcomes and lasting peace. Between July 21 and 23, Mr. Chatchai engaged in detailed discussions with Maj Gen Pramote Prom-in, a deputy commander of the 4th Army and deputy director of the Internal Security Operations Command’s (Isoc) Region 4 Forward Command, in Malaysia.
These discussions were reportedly positive, as the new facilitator has enabled both the Thai team and the BRN to delve deeper into discussions, creating a clear roadmap for a Joint Comprehensive Plan towards Peace (JCPP). This plan is expected to gain approval in the near future. Although the JCPP had been previously agreed upon, the BRN later expressed opposition. Mr. Chatchai suggests that the current framework will focus on mutually agreeable points while deferring contentious issues for future discussions.
Tackling the topic of territorial separation, Mr. Chatchai emphasized that the talks will unfailingly adhere to the kingdom’s constitution. As stated in Section 1, “Thailand is one and an indivisible kingdom.” He assured, “Having dedicated over 30 years to national security, I will not permit any form of territorial disintegration.”
Addressing the potential solution of granting Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani special administrative status similar to Bangkok and Pattaya, Mr. Chatchai argued that such a measure is unnecessary. He noted that the majority of local administrative officials are Muslims native to the region, which already ensures local representation.
When questioned about the persistent violence in the region, despite years of peace talks led by various negotiators, Mr. Chatchai attributed it to the BRN’s dissatisfaction with ongoing military operations. These operations, although sometimes resulting in arrests and fatalities, are legal necessities, he clarified.
To concerns about the authenticity of the BRN negotiators, Mr. Chatchai responded affirmatively. “Their identities have been thoroughly verified, and they were chosen by the Malaysian government to participate in the peace dialogue,” he confirmed.
Mr. Chatchai further expressed optimism about the frequent meetings between Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and his Malaysian counterpart, Mr. Anwar. These frequent diplomatic engagements are expected to positively impact the peace talks. Their upcoming meeting in Narathiwat’s Sungai Kolok district, followed by a cross-border lunch in the Malaysian state of Kelantan, reflects the high priority given to resolving the conflict.
He also highlighted that Mr. Mohd Rabin’s direct reporting line to the Malaysian prime minister would likely accelerate progress. “With such a dedicated facilitator at the helm, we can expect quicker and more effective results in the peace-making process,” Mr. Chatchai concluded.
I’m skeptical about any progress being made. These talks have been going on for years with little to show for it.
I think this new facilitator may bring a fresh perspective though. Sometimes that’s all it takes.
I doubt it. Changing facilitators is just window dressing; the real issues remain the same.
But haven’t you noticed that Mr. Mohd Rabin seems more aligned with both governments? That alignment could lead to real progress!
Totally agree with Tina. Also, why does Thailand even need to negotiate with BRN? It’s a sovereign state dealing with terrorists.
I think granting special administrative status to Yala, Narathiwat, and Pattani could be a good compromise.
No way. That’s just a step towards eventual separation. Section 1 of the constitution is clear—the kingdom is indivisible.
But isn’t special status different from separation? It’s more about local governance and representation.
Special status is just a fancy term for autonomy. It’s a slippery slope and defies the very point of these talks.
Mr. Chatchai is putting too much faith in the Malaysian government. They have their own agenda.
But having Malaysia’s backing can bring more legitimacy and pressure on BRN to comply.
Maybe, but what if that pressure backfires? The BRN could dig in their heels even more.
They should just let those provinces have more autonomy. When people feel represented, they’re less likely to rebel.
Representation is important, but not at the cost of national security. The focus should be on integration, not segregation.
Integration can work, but only if it’s paired with genuine efforts at inclusivity and reducing military presence.
Interesting point about the BRN’s dissatisfaction with military operations. Maybe scaling back could be a gesture of goodwill.
Scaling back military operations is risky. It could leave room for insurgents to resurge.
True, but isn’t that what trust-building is about? You have to take some risks for long-term peace.
New facilitator or not, the deep-seated mistrust on both sides will be the biggest challenge to overcome.
This is just another political maneuver to buy more time. Nothing will change.
Isn’t that a bit cynical? Genuine efforts have been made, and some progress has been seen before.
BRN’s objectives are so far removed from the Thai government’s stance. How can any common ground be found?
Common ground is always a challenge, but that’s what diplomacy is for. It’s about finding a win-win situation.
The engagement between Prime Ministers Srettha and Anwar is promising. High-level efforts can finally drive real change.
Can’t help but wonder if Mr. Chatchai’s optimism is just for show. Real change needs more than just good intentions.
Why should anyone trust the Thai government’s promises? History has shown they never deliver on peace initiatives.
We should remain hopeful. Previous peace talks didn’t have the same level of involvement from Malaysia.
Yeah, but more involvement also means more complexity. It’s like adding extra cooks to the kitchen.
Violence only triggers more violence. Both sides need to come to the table with genuine intentions for peace.
Easy to say, but how do you force zealots and hardliners to soften their stance? It’s way more complicated than just ‘genuine intentions.’
True, but dialogue has to start somewhere. They need to find a way to break the cycle of violence.
Exactly, Olivia. Genuine dialogue is the only way forward, no matter how hard it seems.
Mr. Mohd Rabin’s approach seems more pragmatic. Maybe he can mediate better and push both parties towards actionable solutions.