KOTA BARU: Thai Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has expressed profound regret and concern over the assault of two Malaysian tourists who were set on fire in Bangkok yesterday.
According to Thai news portal The Nation, the minister said he had directed agencies under his ministry — especially the Tourist Police and relevant security units — to provide urgent assistance and close protection for the victims.
He also ordered tighter security measures in major tourist areas to restore confidence among international travellers.
In addition, he announced that the ministry is providing support through compensation applications under the aid scheme for injured or deceased foreign visitors, and tasked the Tourist Assistance Centre (TAC) with closely monitoring the victims’ medical treatment.
“I have also instructed TAC to assist with documentation, foreign-language communication, and coordination with relevant agencies such as the Malaysian Embassy, hospitals, local police, and other bodies,” he added.
Sorawong said ministry officials plan to visit the injured tourists to offer support once doctors deem it safe.
He reiterated that the Thai government is committed to prioritising the safety and welfare of all visitors.
“I extend my heartfelt wishes to the injured and their families, and I assure everyone that Thai authorities will do everything possible to protect and care for tourists, ensuring Thailand remains a safe and attractive destination,” he said.
The incident occurred when a 30-year-old former boxer, reportedly in a state of distress, allegedly doused the two Malaysian tourists with thinner and set them ablaze outside a prominent shopping mall in Bangkok’s Ratchaprasong area.
The suspect confessed to carrying out the attack, stating that he had no prior conflict with the victims but acted out of stress caused by unemployment and lack of income.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
