Deputy PM Acknowledges Early Warning of Southern Unrest But Says Forecasting Failed

Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeaw, who chairs the government's special committee for southern border affairs, spoke at Government House on August 24 about multiple unrest incidents across the southern border region. He said he would consult with the Prime Minister and all relevant agencies, including the National Security Council secretary-general and the National Intelligence Agency, to assess the situation and determine next steps. Acknowledging concern over the events, he stated that while the government had advance warning of the operations, it must determine how to respond more effectively. The government needs to evaluate who was behind the incidents and strengthen security preparations at all points. When asked how over 50 incidents occurred despite advance intelligence, Sihasak explained that while authorities may know operations are coming, predicting the exact timing is difficult since such activities are often dispersed. He emphasized the need to review intelligence and prevention capabilities to avoid future incidents and protect civilians, with the Prime Minister ordering full compensation for those affected. On whether Malaysia was coordinating to prevent perpetrators from fleeing across the border, he said this requires further review, noting that Malaysia has expressed readiness to cooperate if informed. Regarding speculation that the unrest was retaliation against state officials for combating smuggling, Sihasak said multiple factors likely contributed and wanted to discuss with all parties before drawing conclusions. He acknowledged the need to assess why incidents have become more frequent recently and said the government must review mechanisms and whether security preparations are sufficiently tight.