The Islamic way of youth care by Muslim leaders in the three southern-border provinces of Thailand

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore the Islamic way of youth care by Muslim leaders in the three southern-border provinces of Thailand, namely Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat. The data was collected through brainstorming and critique meetings with 18 Muslim leaders, 18 youth representatives, 6 Muslim academicians, and 8 people from related local organizations. The data was analyzed using logical comparison with concepts, theories, and research reports while the context was analyzed through the grounded theory method. The results revealed that the Islamic way of youth care should be conducted with cooperation from all organizations and people who are concerned; youth should be given opportunities to participate in every step of the process; Muslim leaders should be encouraged to realize the importance of their roles and responsibilities for youth care; and a "Village Youth Club" should be established by using local a masjid as the center of operation. The club should have an administrative structure, concrete roles and responsibilities, and activities both in the religious and the social sectors that correspond with needs of the Muslim youth and are in line with Islamic principles.