Unrest in southern Thailand dates back to 1902, when the Kingdom of Siam absorbed the Kingdom of Pattani, which comprised modern-day Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani provinces. Religious, ethnic and linguistic differences alienated the mostly Malay Muslims of Pattani from the Buddhist ruling class. Subsequent attempts to assimilate ethnic Malays under Buddhist Thai rule sparked fierce resistance in the Muslim south. Resistance eventually gave way to several insurgent groups with varying agendas. While militancy in southern Thailand is not new, recent developments have changed the complexion of the insurgency. Whereas most attacks previously featured shootings and small improvised explosive devices or vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices, new attacks reflect advanced planning, cross-region coordination and greater tradecraft capabilities. These new developments in the Thai insurgency present new challenges to Kuala Lumpur. Increasingly active insurgents increase the chances that fighting could spill over into Malaysia. For now, attacks remain on the Thai side of the border, but Kuala Lumpur understandably wants to avoid a situation that would result in the death of Malaysians or that could be exploited by criminal or militant elements. Moreover, increased cross-border activity would fuel Bangkok's suspicions that Malaysia was assisting the insurgents.
