Malaysian tourists threaten Thailand boycott after motorcycle fines
A social media post by a Malaysian tourist threatening to boycott Hat Yai has sparked debate after a group of Malaysian motorcyclists were fined by Thai police for traffic violations. The Facebook user, who goes by the name “Tok Singa,” posted a video claiming that his group of 17 Malaysian motorcyclists received 15 tickets totaling […] The post Malaysian tourists threaten Thailand boycott after…
A Malaysian tourist posted on social media, claiming that his group of 17 motorcyclists received 15 tickets worth approximately 15,000 baht during a traffic inspection by Hat Yai Police. The post alleged that only one officer conducted the inspection, which lasted nearly three hours, and that the group was threatened with detention if they delayed payment.
The video, seen by many, called for a boycott of Hat Yai, a popular Malaysian tourist destination. However, Hat Yai Police disputed several claims. Sgt. Maj. Veerasak Phansaeman, the officer involved, said he stopped the group near the Dam Bridge intersection and inspected 17 motorcycles for compliance with traffic laws, insurance, driving licenses, and vehicle equipment.
Of the 17 bikes, nine were found to have violations, resulting in nine tickets totaling 12,000 baht. Each fine varied between 1,000 and 3,000 baht depending on the violation. Police used a sound-level meter to check exhaust noise, adhering to legal requirements. The police insisted that they treated foreigners and Thai motorists equally and followed legal procedures.
They urged visitors to understand and follow local traffic laws. The police did not expect the incident to significantly impact Hat Yai's tourism industry, as most visitors comply with Thai laws.
Written by urgent.news from Khaosod English's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
