Adaptation of Local Governments in the Three Southern Border Provinces under ASEAN Community: Problems and Obstacles, Guidelines for Appropriate Practice

Abstract

This research aimed to study the problems and obstacles to adaptation and to study the appropriate practical guidelines for adaptation of the local administrative organizations in the three southern border provinces under the opening of the ASEAN Community. This research used the qualitative research method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews of 25 persons and a semi-formal meeting forum with 83 agency representatives. Key informant groups were academics and administrators of local administrative organizations in the area. The employed research instrument was an in-depth interview form. Data were analyzed by content analysis. The results of the study revealed that there were six problems and obstacles to necessary adjustment: (1) organizational structure of local administrative organizations; (2) English usage of the personnel; (3) knowledge and understanding about the context for joining the ASEAN Community; (4) knowledge and understanding about the established ASEAN Community; (5) educational standards and knowledge and understanding of the people; (6) the unrest condition in the area. As for the practical guidelines for adaptation, there were four urgent approaches to be summarized as follows: (1) organizing activities to review strategic plans or action plans; (2) setting up a committee for developing language proficiency; (3) adjusting the structure and increasing the mission and roles of the work agencies; and (4) setting up integrated action plans.