Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, in his capacity as chairman of a committee tasked with developing the deep South, on Monday approved 11 projects to be carried out in the restive region, in a bid to boost the government's soft power projection and stabilise the area.
The projects were approved during a tour of Narathiwat, where Gen Prawit was scheduled to inspect flood-stricken areas before meeting with the Committee on Development Strategy in the Deep South.
The deputy prime minister visited the Princess of Naradhiwas University, where he viewed an exhibition on Thai-Malaysia trade, which highlighted many cultural aspects of the deep South.
He then held discussions with a group of agriculturists as well as representatives from businesses based in the southern province.
The representatives expressed their concerns about inconsistent electricity supply in the region, especially during droughts. In response, Gen Prawit promised officials from the Energy Ministry and the provincial administration will promptly address the matter.
Afterwards, he sat down with the Committee on Development Strategy in the Deep South to consider 11 new projects proposed in the area, including some which had been previously introduced by Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre.
The deputy prime minister said the projects were designated to improve the quality of life of far South residents, while at the same time strengthening their cultural identities.
At the meeting, Gen Prawit pledged the central government's support for the projects.
He urged relevant agencies to expedite the implementation of the projects as he believed they will positively contribute to the government's soft power projection in the South, as well as the region's peace and stability.
