The Role of Muslim Pathan Leader in Southern Isan of Thailand

Abstract

Driving force in all levels radically merges its mechanism to provide guidance for development. A part of the process is usually based on religion root such as Christianity, Hindu, Buddhism, Confucius, Taoism, Islam etc. Major people in civil society groups have strict attitude towards their religious faiths. Especially, Islamic religion emphasizes on human peace (Islam Mualaigum). As a result, the role of Islamic living exhibits the movement of generous society providing the respect among community people. Thus Islamic people characterize several aspects of leaderships e.g. economy, society and politic etc.

According to the study of way of life and role of Muslim Pathan settled down in Southern Isan of Thailand, consisting of Si Sa Ket, Ubon Ratchathani, Yasothon, Buri Ram and Surin Provinces, the way of living, ethnic identity and the role of Muslim Pathan living with Thai Buddhist in the community with end of distinct religion shined crucially social dimension to community development. Point of view regarding acceptance of leadership role from local people was, therefore, estimated by credibility, principally  based on daring determination and providing benefits to society. Some Muslim Pathan have been chosen for administrative leaders from the past till the present both local level e.g. Provincial Administration Organization(PAO), Local Administration Organization(LAO), kaman, village headman; and national level i.e. member of parliament.

From the field survey, the Muslim Pathans in all society groups who were religious leaders (imam) and political leader extended their cooperation and cohesion in establishing a variety of activities, for example religion, community development, tradition and culture enhancement in tangible way with local people.

Key Words: Role, Community Leader, Muslim Pathan, Islamic Religion