Bomb threats don't deter Malaysians from visiting Thailand

Recent threats of bombings and shootings in several areas of Thailand have not deterred Malaysian citizens from visiting the country, with the Pengkalan Kubor Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security Complex (ICQS) seeing significant congestion. The border crossing has been packed with Malaysian vehicles queuing to enter Thailand for weekend leisure.

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I am confident that Thailand is still safe to travel to.

Malaysian tourists interviewed at the border expressed a general sense of security, despite the reported incidents. Mohd. Razman Abdullah, 45, stated his belief that Thailand remains safe for travel, as he planned a two-day family trip to Patani. Similarly, Wan Halimah Wan Harun, 38, a frequent visitor for food and shopping, acknowledged the need for caution.

Wan Halimah advised avoiding certain areas, particularly at night, citing warnings from Thai locals about potential dangers in the southern provinces. This sentiment reflects a common approach of balancing the desire for travel with an awareness of potential risks in specific regions.

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Thai people always advise that if you go to Thailand, don't go out at night because it's dangerous, especially in the three provinces in Southern Thailand.

Local residents confirmed that the congestion at ICQS Pengkalan Kubor is a regular weekend occurrence, often starting as early as Thursday afternoons. Hashim Mohd. Yunus, 55, noted that the queues typically extend beyond the complex's gates during peak times. The continued influx of Malaysian tourists suggests a resilience in travel intentions, with many prioritizing their holiday plans over security concerns, albeit with a degree of vigilance.

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Usually on weekends, vehicles queue up to the outside of the ICQS gate. Sometimes on Thursday afternoon, it's already crowded with Malaysian tourists.