The Southern Border Provinces Confidence Index improved to 56.29 in the third quarter of 2024, up from 55.56 in the previous quarter, according to Anukool Pruksanusak, Deputy Government Spokesperson.
Economic confidence increased to 56.81 from 56.17, while social confidence rose to 53.28 from 53.05. This growth is attributed to a surge in cross-border tourism during Malaysia’s extended holidays, nationwide government economic stimulus measures, the fruit harvest season, and rising prices of key agricultural commodities.
Among the provinces, Satun recorded the highest overall confidence at 61.14, particularly in security, followed by Songkhla at 58.21, Yala at 55.03, Pattani at 55.00, and Narathiwat at 54.92.
The survey identified the top three concerns among residents as high living costs, insufficient income across all provinces, and drug-related issues, notably in Satun and Narathiwat. These concerns align with public calls for government intervention in these areas.
The government is collaborating with relevant agencies to enhance the livelihoods of residents in the southern border provinces. Efforts are focusing on income generation, job creation, and improving quality of life, especially by promoting agricultural products and expanding markets to increase residents’ earnings.
Source: NNT
