THE MALAYSIAN government has advised Malaysians against travelling to southern Thailand in the aftermath of car bombings in Hat Yai and Yala last weekend, while Firefly has postponed the launch of inaugural flights to the region.
The Star quoted Malaysian foreign minister Anifah Aman as saying that those who intended to visit the area should only do so for urgent matters, and should inform the Malaysian consulate in Songkhla as a precaution.
Meanwhile, Firefly has deferred the launch of its newest route between Subang and Hat Yai originally scheduled for May 2.
Ignatius Ong, Malaysia Airlines/Firefly COO shorthaul said: “We will postpone commencement of these flights until we think it is safe to fly. We will make an announcement of a new commencement date when the situation in Hat Yai is back to normal.”
Albert Tan, managing director, Tongyan Travel & Tours Penang said: “Outbound travel to southern Thailand will be seriously affected for at least three months due to safety concerns.”
“However, I still expect to see Thais travelling from the south into Malaysia for leisure. This will not be affected to the same extent.”
Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also urged Singaporeans to postpone all non-essential travel to the region.
