"We are very sorry and regret to have to cancel the regional selection of teens in the deep South, who we believe are very talented and interested in the contest," said public relations official Thidarat Boonsombat.

"But we are concerned about the safety of these young candidates, some of whom might have to travel far from home to participate in the event. So we have called all of them about the cancellation," Thidarat said.

The competition's primary selection for the lower southern region was scheduled to be held at the Lee Garden Hotel in Hat Yai next Sunday.

Despite the regional selection being cancelled, Thidarat said interested candidates could still take part in other regions, such as in Khon Kaen on Sunday and at Central Sofitel Bangkok on October 14.

The final round of the contest will be held on October 27.