SECURITY forces in Malaysia have tightened security along its border with Thailand as they urged locals to reconsider travel to the country’s southern provinces following a wave of attacks that has heightened security concerns in the region.
Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohd Khalid Ismail said the enhanced security measures were precautionary, particularly to protect Malaysians who frequently travel across the border.
He also advised Malaysians to reduce or temporarily postpone travel to southern Thailand while the security situation remained tense.
“In my view, given the rather tense security situation, it would be better for our people to reduce their movements there and try to avoid travelling there at this time.
“The situation there is quite critical, and we pray that everything can be resolved peacefully. We also hope that the border between the two countries remains safe and peaceful,” he said.
He said this after attending the 2026 Melaka State Honours Investiture Ceremony held in conjunction with the 77th birthday celebrations of the Yang di-Pertua Negeri Melaka at Balai Istiadat Seri Negeri, Ayer Keroh, yesterday.
Mohd Khalid was among 10 recipients of the Darjah Gemilang Seri Melaka (DGSM), which carries the title Datuk Seri.
Meanwhile, Southeast Brigade commander Senior Assistant Commissioner Ahmad Radzi Hussain said the General Operations Force (PGA) was prepared to deploy additional assets, including armoured vehicles, drones and special teams, if required.
He said the PGA was closely monitoring developments in the neighbouring country and remained on alert for any potential security threats.
“The situation along the Kelantan-Thailand border is safe for now, but security controls continue to be strengthened as a precaution.
“Security controls are constantly being tightened and frontline personnel have been reminded to remain prepared and vigilant while carrying out their duties,” he said
The latest wave of attacks occurred on the night of August 22 across Yala, Pattani and Narathiwat, involving bomb blasts, arson and attacks targeting several public facilities and premises.
Reports said 51 incidents, including attacks involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs), had been recorded across the three provinces.
The impact of the attacks was also felt on the Malaysian side, with residents in several border areas of Kelantan, including Pasir Mas and Rantau Panjang, reporting loud explosions that were strong enough to cause their homes to shake.
In Sungai Golok, the situation was also reported to be tense after roadblocks were imposed following the explosions, leaving at least one Malaysian temporarily stranded in the town while waiting for the situation to stabilise and routes to reopen.
On the possibility of Malaysia closing its border crossings, Mohd Khalid said no routes had been closed by Malaysian authorities so far. - August 25, 2026
