IT is estimated that Malaysians spent RM39 million in Thailand during the three-day weekend and Merdeka Day celebrations, especially in Narathiwat, Pattani, Hatyai and Yala.
The amount is estimated based on a minimum spending of RM522 per visitor or family, involving approximately 75,000 visitors based on bookings made.
President of the Thai-ASEAN Halal Tourism Industry Association (TAHTA), Aida Oujeh, said the influx provided a better economic spillover to the four regions compared to RM12.82 million for the same period last year.
“More than 60,000 accommodation rooms in the four regions have been booked.
“The number of accommodation room reservations in conjunction with the Malaysia Day holiday on September 16 is also almost exhausted. About 90 to 95 percent of the 120,000 hotel, villa and resort rooms are booked.
“Based on the reservations, we expect up to 150,000 Malaysian tourists to visit Southern Thailand during the Malaysia Day holiday starting September 14,” he said as reported by Utusan Malaysia.
He advised tourists using their own vehicles to be careful when driving because the weather conditions in Southern Thailand are currently uncertain.
According to him, so far food prices in southern Thailand are still under control and affordable.
He said, TAHTA together with the Tourism Authority of Thailand are constantly monitoring food prices at all premises, especially in hotspots such as Hat Yai.
“So far, there has been no sudden increase and we have advised traders to maintain the same prices as offered to locals,” he said. – September 13, 2025
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