Thailand tightens security for Malaysian tourists

KOTA BHARU - Thailand authorities are increasing security for Malaysian tourists including those from Kelantan so they can feel safer and at ease when visiting the country.

Thailand Tourism Police deputy commander Major General Phongsiam Meekhanthong said among the measures taken were inspections and patrols at tourist destinations.

He said Thailand recorded an increase of over 20,000 tourists a month from Malaysia post-Covid-19.

"They choose to travel to Southern Thailand such as Songkhla, Bangkok and Chiang Mai.

"For their safety, we will perform regular checks including at beaches to ensure not only Malaysians but all of those visiting Thailand would comply with regulations such as wearing safety jackets and using tourist drivers as well as avoiding road accidents," he said at a press conference after meeting with Kelantan police at the Contingent Police Headquarters here on Wednesday.

Also present were Kelantan police chief Datuk Muhammad Zaki Harun, Thailand Tourism Police Division 3 police commander Major General Krit Warit and Deputy Consul General Marisa Indramangala.

Phongiam said tourists who faced any complications or have any questions could contact him at any hour.

Zaki said a total of 91,000 Malaysian tourists have travelled to Thailand through the three main checkpoints in Kelantan since the beginning of the year.

"In the six-month period, around 88,000 Thailand residents have entered Malaysia through the same checkpoints.

"Last year, 157,000 Thai residents entered Malaysia through Kelantan and 131,000 Malaysians travelled to the country," he said.