Police tighten Malaysia–Thailand border security after Yala, Pattani, Narathiwat blasts

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 24 — Malaysia's police have bolstered security measures at the Malaysia-Thailand border in response to a series of explosions and attacks in southern Thailand's Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat regions, which remain under control. Bukit Aman Internal Security and Public Order Department (JKDNKA) director Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri announced the deployment of forces from the Southeast and Northern Brigades of the General Operations Force (GOF), along with enhanced patrols at border fencing, the Sungai Golok, and potentially infiltrated routes.

He assured that the country's borders remain under control and emphasized that PDRM is intensifying prevention, early detection, and rapid response tactics, as well as improving intelligence sharing with Thai security agencies.

Mohd Yusri reported no Malaysians have been affected by the incidents. The Malaysian Embassy in Bangkok and the Malaysian Consulate General in Songkhla are collaborating with Thai authorities to obtain the latest updates and maintain the safety of Malaysians in the affected areas. He advised Malaysians residing, in, or planning to visit the southern region of Thailand to postpone non-essential travel, remain vigilant, and follow all security instructions, including curfews if enforced.

Malaysians are also required to register and update information via the e-Consular portal to facilitate consular assistance in emergencies. The Narathiwat region experienced a curfew from 10.15pm last Saturday to 5am the following day following over 50 incidents, such as bombings, burning of local government offices, and burning tires.

The loud explosion from Narathiwat shook homes and caused concern among residents in border areas, including Kampung Lubok Gong and Kampung Tersang, Rantau Panjang.