M’sians urged to reconsider non-essential travel to southern Thailand amid security concerns

People travelling. Photo: Pixabay
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By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, Aug 25: Malaysians have been advised to reconsider non-essential travel to Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat following a series of recent security incidents in the three southern Thai provinces.

Malaysia’s Consul General in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, said those residing in or travelling to the affected areas should remain vigilant and closely follow instructions issued by the Thai authorities.

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“Malaysians are advised to avoid locations affected by security incidents, demonstrations or large gatherings, and to comply fully with directives issued by the Thai authorities, including curfews, road closures and security checkpoints,” he said in a statement issued from Istana Arau in Kangar today.

Recent media reports indicated that Narathiwat was placed under a curfew from 10.15pm on Aug 22 until 5am on Aug 23 following more than 50 incidents across Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat. The incidents reportedly included bomb attacks and arson targeting local government offices and public property.

Ahmad Fahmi made the remarks while attending the Kayuhan Malaysia Merdeka 2026 programme in the Ko Taeo subdistrict of Songkhla, led by the Raja Muda of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, and the second heir to the Perlis throne, Syed Sirajuddin Areeb Putra Al-Haj Jamalullail.

He also urged Malaysians to avoid travelling at night in affected areas, stay updated through official announcements and keep family members informed of their whereabouts and travel plans.

Meanwhile, Ahmad Fahmi reminded Malaysians driving into Thailand to carry their original physical driving licence, noting that the digital licence available via the MyJPJ application may not be sufficient during inspections.

“Travellers should ensure they carry all essential documents, including vehicle registration papers, insurance certificates and any other required documentation throughout their journey to facilitate checks by the authorities,” he said.

He also stressed the importance of complying with Thai traffic laws, including the mandatory use of seat belts and helmets where applicable.

According to Ahmad Fahmi, Thai authorities are actively enforcing traffic regulations, including those involving Malaysian-registered vehicles, with several Malaysian motorists reportedly issued summonses for documentation and traffic-related offences. — Bernama

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