Songkhla: Malaysians in Pattani, Yala, and Narathiwat, along with those intending to travel to these regions, have been advised to remain vigilant due to a series of recent security incidents in the three southern Thai provinces.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Malaysia's Consul General in Songkhla, Thailand, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, has advised against non-essential travel to the affected areas. He emphasized the importance of avoiding areas impacted by security incidents, demonstrations, or large gatherings. Additionally, Malaysians should adhere to instructions from Thai authorities, including those related to curfews, road closures, and security checks.
Media reports highlighted that Narathiwat was subjected to a curfew from 10.15 pm on August 22 to 5 am on August 23, following over 50 incidents, including bombings and arson attacks on local government offices and tyres in the provinces. Ahmad Fahmi made these remarks during 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.
Ahmad Fahmi further advised Malaysians to refrain from traveling at night in the affected areas, to follow official announcements, and to keep their immediate family members informed of their travel plans. He also emphasized the importance of carrying original physical driving licenses when driving into Thailand, rather than relying solely on the digital license available through the MyJPJ application.
He urged travelers to carry essential documents, including vehicle registration, insurance, and other necessary documents, to facilitate checks by the authorities. Malaysians driving or riding in Thailand should wear seat belts or helmets at all times and comply with all traffic regulations enforced by Thai authorities. Ahmad Fahmi noted that Thai authorities are now rigorously enforcing traffic regulations, including on Malaysian-registered vehicles, with several Malaysian drivers reportedly issued summonses for documentation and traffic-related offenses.