Provincial Clustering in the Southern of Thailand : Concept and Empirical

This paper presents the geographical cluster as provincial clustering in 14 provinces in the Southern part of Thailand. We formulate 24 indicators as variable base on three major concepts of cluster, which are Spatial, Functional and Micro-foundation concepts. Factor analysis show that these indicators can determine provincial clustering. Cluster analysis describes provincial clustering (group) trend from 2 groups up to 13 groups and can be categories into 5 cases from 3 to 7 groups. In each case, we can determine forms of group using the proximity criteria. Discrimination analysis help classified the most appropriate form in each case. Under the indicators of three concepts of cluster, 3 and 4 groups are appropriate form and indicate that provinces within group are closely located, making the provincial linkages and consistent with the definition and goal of the provincial clustering.