Malaysians Continue Traveling to Thailand Despite Southern Bombings

Bomb blasts in Thailand’s southern provinces have not stopped Malaysians from crossing the border for their school-holiday trips, although travelers say they are keeping watch on the security situation.

“

We were a little worried about the incidents, but after consulting various parties, God willing, we are confident about the journey.

At Bukit Kayu Hitam, traffic toward the inspection counters moved smoothly. Congestion remained inside the ICQS complex, rather than forming the roughly four-kilometer queues seen during some previous long holiday periods. Groups of motorcyclists were also seen heading toward the crossing.

“

Whatever happens, we will remain vigilant and aware of our surroundings.

Shahrul Hafiz Zamri, 40, from Ipoh, said he and 10 family members had planned their self-drive trip to Krabi for two months. “We were a little worried about the incidents, but after consulting various parties, God willing, we are confident about the journey,” he said. He added that the attacks occurred in Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala, while his group would travel to Krabi via Hat Yai. “Whatever happens, we will remain vigilant and aware of our surroundings.”

“

Our motorcycles are mostly in their original factory specifications and have not been modified, especially the exhaust systems, which became an issue in Hat Yai recently.

Motorcyclist Shafiq Iqmal Md Zain, 30, said his group had carefully prepared its bikes to avoid action by Thai traffic police. He said most of the motorcycles retained their factory specifications, especially their exhaust systems, which had become an issue in Hat Yai. Insurance operator Ammar Wafiy Johari said demand for vehicle coverage for Thailand remained normal, with many customers planning trips to Hat Yai or Satun.

“

My sales are fairly good as usual during this school-holiday season, although some people ask about the situation in Narathiwat.