TLDR
- Malaysians are advised to postpone travel to Thailand during Raya due to a fuel shortage affecting popular tourist areas like Satun and Hat Yai.
- Petrol stations are rationing fuel, limiting purchases to 500 baht for cars and 50 baht for motorcycles, with some stations running out of cheaper fuel options.
- Increased border traffic and regional conflicts have caused supply disruptions, leading some stations to close temporarily and others to impose stricter fuel purchase controls.
As Malaysians look forward to a long holiday this upcoming Raya, some may have already considered going on vacation. However, Malaysians have been advised to postpone travel to Thailand during the festive period, as the country is currently facing a fuel shortage.
According to The Malaysian Reserve, many petrol stations in areas popular with Malaysian tourists, such as Satun and Hat Yai, are experiencing fuel supply issues, with some even implementing rationing measures following the conflict involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
The increase in vehicles crossing the border during the festive season has raised concerns that Thai authorities may take stricter measures, including restricting petrol purchases for foreign vehicles.
Image Credit: Thai PBS World
According to a Malaysian tourism operator based in Satun, Abdul Halim Othman, many petrol stations in the country are limiting fuel purchases to 500 baht (approximately RM60) per refill for cars and vans.
Meanwhile, motorcycles are only allowed to refill 50 baht (around RM6) worth of petrol.
“For travellers who have yet to make bookings, they should postpone trips to destinations far from the border for now. This is to reduce the risk of facing difficulties in obtaining petrol or diesel should supply disruptions occur in certain areas,” he said.
Meanwhile, a Thai national identified as Hafis, who works as a tourist van driver, admitted that he is currently experiencing difficulties purchasing petrol and diesel.
“Many petrol stations have temporarily closed after running out of fuel, while those still operating are selling fuel under a quota, 500 baht for cars and 50 baht for motorcycles."
“Additionally, some stations are left with only premium fuel, priced at 43.80 baht (about RM5.30) per litre for diesel and 40.40 baht (around RM4.89) per litre for petrol, after cheaper fuel options ran out,” he said.
Image Credit: Thai News
Meanwhile, a survey conducted by a local newspaper in Narathiwat, Thailand, found fuel supplies dwindling as residents rushed to stock up over the past few days following the West Asian conflict.
Panic buying has led many stations to limit fuel purchases, while others have completely run out of supplies and temporarily ceased operations.
Featured Image Credit: Bangkok Post, Nation Thailand
You may be interested in
Lavaletta • Anastasia Orchid Flat Sandals Orchid Flower Slippers 1cm
Sejadah baldu gebu tebal 5D
YAN@YAN Kurung Moden Sulam Lembut – Ayu & Sopan Bergaya-8319
BUKIPET Mafaza Raya Dress Series
