No haven in M’sia for those against peace in southern Thailand, says Khaled

Malaysian Defence Minister Khaled Nordin has stated that the government will not tolerate the use of Malaysian territory as a refuge for those who reject peace in southern Thailand. Speaking at a press conference, Khaled emphasized the government's commitment to supporting efforts to bring peace to the neighbouring region. He stressed that any party resorting to violence or rejecting the peace process would not be allowed to use Malaysia as a hideout.

The minister also assured full cooperation with Thai authorities to prevent any spillover of incidents from southern Thailand into Malaysia. He confirmed that the Malaysian Armed Forces were strengthening security and monitoring along the border to prevent infiltration by elements from southern Thailand. Khaled also mentioned that the MAF had submitted names to the Prime Minister for potential facilitators in the peace process, following the end of Rabin Basir's tenure.

The minister acknowledged that achieving peace in southern Thailand is a complex task that requires bringing together various groups and parties, given the long history of involvement in the matter. In recent weeks, Narathiwat province has seen a curfew imposed due to over 50 incidents, including bombings and the burning of tyres and local government offices. These explosions caused concern among residents living along the Malaysia-Thailand border.