Cotabato City, Philippines — Chief Minister Ahod “Al Haj Murad” Ebrahim warmly received a delegation from the Kingdom of Thailand’s House of Representatives on Wednesday, November 20, 2024, corresponding to 17 Jumada Al-Awwal 1446 AH. The visit, led by Hon. Romadon Panjor and members of the Ad Hoc Committee on Peacebuilding in Southern Thailand, marked a significant milestone in international peacebuilding efforts, highlighting shared aspirations between the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) and Southern Thailand.
In his welcome address, Chief Minister Ebrahim emphasized the profound parallels between the peace processes in the two regions. “The work of the Ad Hoc Committee on Peacebuilding in Southern Thailand resonates deeply with our own initiatives in Mindanao, where we face the complexities of conflict. Both the Muslim communities in Southern Thailand and the Bangsamoro in the southern Philippines are united by rich cultural heritages founded in Islamic traditions and a collective desire for peace, autonomy, and recognition in the face of numerous challenges. Our histories have shaped resilient and proud identities as Muslims, fostering a strong commitment to dialogue, collaboration, and co-existence,” he said.
The Thai delegation visited the Office of the Chief Minister as part of a cross-learning exchange. Their goal was to gain insights into the strategies, challenges, and successes of the Bangsamoro peace process—a process lauded internationally for its progress in achieving lasting peace and self-determination in Mindanao.
Shared Struggles and Aspirations
The delegation’s visit underscored the common threads between the struggles of the Muslim communities in Southern Thailand and the Bangsamoro people. Both regions have endured decades of conflict, marginalization, and calls for greater autonomy. These shared experiences have cultivated strong, resilient Muslim identities grounded in cultural pride and the pursuit of peace.
For BARMM, the peace process involved years of negotiation, the signing of historic agreements like the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), and the subsequent establishment of an autonomous regional government. The lessons from this journey, particularly the importance of inclusivity and dialogue, serve as valuable references for other regions navigating similar challenges.
Hon. Panjor expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to learn from the Bangsamoro experience. “The Bangsamoro story is inspiring, and it offers practical strategies for fostering trust and cooperation among diverse stakeholders. We hope to apply these lessons in Southern Thailand, where we aim to build a peaceful and harmonious society,” he said.
Strengthening Global Peacebuilding Efforts
The visit is part of BARMM’s growing efforts to share its peacebuilding expertise with the international community. By hosting such exchanges, the region not only strengthens ties with other Muslim-majority areas but also positions itself as a beacon of hope and innovation in resolving protracted conflicts.
Chief Minister Ebrahim concluded by reaffirming BARMM’s commitment to fostering partnerships for peace. “The success of peacebuilding is not just about resolving conflict within our borders but also about contributing to a global culture of peace and understanding. By sharing our experiences, we hope to inspire others to pursue lasting solutions to their struggles,” he stated.
As the Thai delegation returns home, they carry with them not only the insights gleaned from the Bangsamoro peace process but also the enduring spirit of cooperation and shared commitment to peace. This exchange is a testament to how communities divided by geography can unite through shared aspirations and collective action toward harmony and self-determination.
