'Sawadee' snare: Thai traffic cops teach holidaying Malaysians a lesson

KOTA BARU: Malaysians who crossed into the southern Thai town of Sungai Golok today to spend the National Day holidays had to return with a tinge of regret after being slapped with traffic summonses.

According to sources, Thai traffic police, in anticipation of the holidays, had launched an operation this afternoon to detect Malaysian vehicles violating its traffic rules, particularly in areas popular with visitors.

Over ten were fined for parking in restricted areas around Sungai Golok, which borders Rantau Panjang in Kelantan.

The sources said the move followed complaints from local residents about Malaysian tourists who frequently ignored Thailand’s traffic laws.

“Among the offences recorded were vehicles parked near road bends, blocking access to other motorists and stopping on road shoulders near a wet market and along main routes” said the source.

The source said traffic summonses issued by Sungai Golok police amounted to as much as 1,000 baht (RM130), and most offenders opted to settle their fines on the spot.

“Malaysians who refuse to pay risk having their vehicles blacklisted from entering Sungai Golok town or any other province in Thailand,” the source added.

Meanwhile, local residents welcomed the enforcement move, saying it would help address long-standing concerns.

“It is a good step because illegal parking has been causing traffic congestion, especially on market days,” said Aleesha Doramae, a trader at the Sungai Golok wet market.

The 25-year-old said many Malaysian tourists visited Sungai Golok town not only during long public holidays but also on weekends.

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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