The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organizes a project to promote better understanding on the situation in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand among the International[...]

On 27 - 29 August 2025, Mr. Pongprach Makchang, Ambassador attached to the Ministry, together with Mr. Piyasiri Wattanavarangkul, Deputy Secretary - General, Southern Border Provinces Administrative Centre (SBPAC), led the Thai delegation to Jakarta, Republic of Indonesia, to promote better understanding on the situation in the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand among the international community and Thai Muslim students abroad.

The delegation attended the "Thai Student Gathering 2025" organized by the Royal Thai Embassy in Jakarta between 28-29 August 2025. The programme aimed to enhance skills and capacities of Thai Muslim students in Indonesia, featuring cultural visits, academic and career seminars, group activities and performances, as well as mental health-related and leadership training, with over 160 students in attendance.

During the visit, the delegation called on Mr. Syafiq A. Mughni, Chairman of the Muhammadiyah, at the Muhammadiyah Headquarters in Jakarta. Both sides discussed the expansion of collaboration on education, scholarships for Thai students, particularly those from the Southern Border Provinces of Thailand, and the renewing of MOU between the Muhammadiyah and SBPAC. The delegation also called on Dr. Ulil Abshar Abdalla, Deputy Chairman of the Nahdlatul Ulama (NU). Both sides explored ways to deepen educational and scholarship cooperation as well as interfaith dialogue and "Humanitarian Islam" concept.

This visit underscored the Ministry's commitment to advancing education partnerships and mutual understanding with Indonesian stakeholders, while supporting and empowering Thai Muslim students overseas. It also coincided with the 75th anniversary of Thailand - Indonesia diplomatic relations.