BANGKOK: The Malaysian Embassy in Thailand has assured the families of two Malaysian tourists who were set on fire that it will closely monitor their conditions.
The victims, Gan Xiao Zhen, 27, and Ong Yik Leong, 26, remain in stable condition despite being in the intensive care unit, said the embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim to Thailand, Bong Yik Jui. Gan sustained second-degree burns to 36 per cent of her body, including her face, chest, and arm, while Ong suffered similar burns to his upper body, both front and back.
Bong said the embassy would continue to monitor the victims’ progress closely with the hospital, even if their family members return to Malaysia.
Gan and Ong were attacked by an unemployed man who allegedly doused them with thinner before setting them alight near a shopping mall on Ratchadamri Road about 10pm on Thursday.
During a briefing with the victims’ family members, Assistant Permanent Secretary of the Tourism and Sports Ministry Seksun Ngawsuwan said the Thai government would provide a specific sum to help with medical expenses.
“We will assist the family members as much as possible to ensure that the recovery process proceeds smoothly,” he said.
Seksun said both victims are expected to require about one month of treatment in Thailand to ensure their wounds heal properly. He added that a transfer back to Malaysia would depend on the doctors’ observations and recommendations.
“I know it is a challenge for the family members to stay here and care for their loved ones. However, until they are medically fit, it is too risky to transfer them back to Malaysia,” he said.
Thai Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said his ministry was concerned over the incident and had instructed agencies to urgently provide assistance and supervision, and to strengthen security measures to build confidence among all tourists visiting Thailand.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
