The southern region of Thailand is a coastal area between the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. The local population are mostly Muslims, Chinese and Thais. Main incomes are from fishery, rubber, fruits and tourism. Areas in mountain valleys and along the eastern coast are relatively densely populated. Muslim areas are encountering sandy soil problems. Para rubber cultivation has been heavily promoted to compete with Malaysia and Indonesia. Mangrove forests have dwindled, negatively affecting the local ecological system. National development plans accelerate urbanization and decentralization in the region.