Markets in deep south see more business as cautious optimism returns
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Markets and business in deep southern provinces on Friday appeared to be more active compared to previous weeks when vendors and shoppers stayed away fearing for their safety following the distribution of leaflets threatening violence against those workin
Business at the Pimonchai fresh market in Yala municipality was busier today than in recent weeks, with more shops open and a greater number of shoppers than on the previous two Fridays. Both Thai and Muslim traders were selling their goods while shoppers were coming out to buy food and other goods normally.
Today is the third Friday since the distribution of leaflets to Muslim and Buddhist communities stating that working on Friday went against Islamic teachings and those who did not believe this would face possible attacks or violence.
The threats worked well as vendors and shoppers stayed away from the Friday market even though Islamic spiritual leader, Chula Ratchamontri, issued statements denying the claims.
Provincial authorities including security authorities have campaigned hard to ensure people have a better understanding of the situation and do not believe the rumours. They promised to deploy more officials, both in uniform and undercover, to provide safety for people.
Vendors also returned to do business in another market in the municipality, and both Muslims and Buddhists were seen shopping.
Security officials including police and soldiers were deployed to provide safety. They set up more checkpoints to screen vehicles and people.
Meanwhile in Pattani, a market in the municipality was lively again compared to the previous weeks with more shops open and more people wandering around looking for items
However, merchants outside the provincial seat still feared for their safety, not wanting to take the chance of being targeted with violence. Traffic in Pattani municipality was reduced.
Pattani mayor Pitak Kohkiatpitak said about 80 per cent of vendors had returned to the market today and he was optimistic that next week the situation would return to normal.
Combined military, police and local government civil servants has been deployed in the provincial seats of Yala and Pattani while strict security has been applied to ensure the safety of the public.
A municipality market in Narathiwat was also livelier. Pol Col Worapat Puengdej, a provincial police chief said he ordered more patrolling and an increase of police personnel in the area to ensure safety for people and to regain the confidence of the public.
“I wish people had more confidence in our work. We have never abandoned people and their business,” he said.
Meanwhile a fish vendor, who identified herself only as Nui, said she returned to the market today because she felt confident about on the safety measures of the authorities. Although there were not so many potential buyers, she would continue to do business today, she said.
Another vendor, Ord, said that the atmosphere today was better than in previous weeks. as more vendors and shoppers returned to the market.
