Southern Thai Muslims

Believers of Islam are identified as the largest religious minority in Thailand. They live mostly in the southernmost parts of the provinces of Pattani, Narathiwat, Satun and Yala.

Hence, they are known as Southern Thai Muslims. Their Islam faith is noted to be introduced to the Malay Peninsula by Arab adventurers and merchants during the 13th century.

The majority of the Thai Muslims can be traced from the Malay lineage. With this, a lot of the Southern Thai Muslims' cultural traditions and customs are similar with those people living in Malaysia.

Southern Thai Muslims, be it Sunni or Shi'ite, are provided with monetary and moral support from the king of Thailand. He was the person responsible for allotting some money to translate the Muslims' Koran into Thai.

Every year, the king of Thailand or his chosen ambassador also leads during celebrations that commemorate the birthday of the prophet Muhammad. In addition, the king assigns a religious leader of Islam as the State Counsel for all Islamic affairs (Chularajamontri). The monarchy of Thailand also gives funds for the construction and renovation of mosques.

Southern Thai Muslims enjoy the privilege of taking a leave from work when significant Muslim festivals or celebrations are remembered. They are even permitted to work half-day on Fridays, the holy day for Muslims.

Family and inheritance cases of Southern Thai Muslims are handled by the "kadi", a Muslim religious judge, who is guided by the laws of the Koran.

One to four months of leave is also given to the employee belonging to this Thai minority while enjoying full salary if their leave is related to their pilgrimage to the holy land of Mecca.

Despite these types of support from the government of Thailand, the Southern Thai Muslims stage conflict with the government.

Circumstances such as waning public health services in comparison to other groups, increased birth rates, environmental degradation because of widespread flooding, and resettlement abroad for economic reasons have forced them to become rebellious to the Thai government.

The Southern Thai Muslims are scarcely represented in the economic and political scenes because of historical neglect or restrictions, but public policies continue to seek improvement of the group's status.

The majority of Southern Thai Muslims are lobbying for their region's autonomy. A little percentage of the group prefers the formation of an independent state.

Other factions demand bigger participation in politics at all decision-making levels, equal civil rights and status, and improved economic opportunities inclusive of a bigger part in public funds.

A lot of issues have to be addressed by the government to this minority group. Efforts are continuously done on the process, as the group is seen to offer a sizable amount of economic activity through its manpower.

The Thai government hopes to inform Muslims (who have migrated to other countries) of the opportunities present in Thailand. It is hoped that the conflicts will come to a win-win resolution. This group is seen to have a big contribution in the country's further development if their support can be acquired.