PERTANIKA JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

The purpose of this research was to explore Islamic background of Thai Muslim youth in the three Southern border provinces of Thailand in terms of their upbringing, studying, performing religious duties, and participating in activities. Data was obtained through discussions and in-depth interviews with 54 informants: 18 youths who displayed Islamic ethical behaviour, 18 Muslim leaders, and 18 parents and guardians. The study found that the Thai youths displayed ethical behaviour as they had good Islamic background in terms of upbringing, education, performing religious duties and participating in religious-related activities.