Thailand’s Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong has vowed to tighten security in the country’s popular tourist zones following a shocking assault on two Malaysian visitors in Bangkok.
Expressing deep regret over the incident, Sorawong said he had ordered the Tourist Police and other relevant agencies to provide urgent aid and close protection for the victims, who were doused with flammable liquid and set alight in front of a bustling shopping mall in the Ratchaprasong district yesterday.
“This is a deeply troubling incident. I have instructed all relevant units to act swiftly, not only to assist the injured but also to reassure the international community that Thailand remains a safe and welcoming destination,” he said, as quoted by Thai news portal The Nation.
Sorawong added that the ministry is facilitating compensation under the government’s aid scheme for foreign visitors who are injured or killed while in Thailand. The Tourist Assistance Centre (TAC) has been tasked with overseeing the victims’ medical care, as well as handling documentation, foreign-language communication, and coordination with agencies such as the Malaysian Embassy, hospitals, and local police.
He said ministry officials would personally visit the injured once doctors confirm it is safe to do so.
The minister also extended his well-wishes to the victims and their families, pledging that Thai authorities would “do everything possible” to protect and care for visitors.
The attack was allegedly carried out by a 30-year-old former boxer who has since been arrested. Police said the suspect admitted to the assault, claiming he acted out of frustration over unemployment and financial hardship, and that he had no prior connection with the victims.
The incident has sparked public concern and drawn swift condemnation, with authorities moving to reassure travellers that security in major tourist hotspots will be bolstered immediately – The Star
