Violence in Thailand: Visitors drop by almost 50 per cent

Recent violence in southern Thailand has led to a significant decline in visitor numbers, with a staggering 50 per cent drop in the number of tourists crossing the border into Malaysia. The provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala, which border Malaysia, have borne the brunt of the unrest. A survey conducted by the Thai-ASEAN Tourism and Halal Trade Association revealed the drop in visitors at the Padang Besar crossing over the past five days.

While land crossings exist between the two neighboring countries for trade, culture, and tourism, the violence has affected these activities as well. Aida Qujeh, president of the association, noted that the violence has been confined to government symbols and landmarks, such as police and army reserve barracks, but no tourist areas have been targeted.

Despite the ongoing violence, some bookings have continued, as people have become accustomed to the situation. The recent unrest has caused damage to up to 73 locations in the provinces of Pattani, Narathiwat, and Yala, where mostly farming and cottage industries are prevalent. The community in southern Thailand hopes for peace, as the conflict has been ongoing for decades. Satun and Songkhla, provinces fronting Perlis and Kedah, have largely avoided the violence.