YALA (THAILAND): The Thai army is beefing up security along the border with Malaysia in conjunction with Hari Raya Aidiladha on Monday.
Thailand's 4th Amy Area deputy commander Major General Phaisarn Nusang said they expected many Thai nationals living in Malaysia to return to the kingdom to celebrate the festival.
He said there will likely be an increase of road traffic. He also did not discount a possibility of some 'illegal movement' along the border to increase as well.
"We will step up our security along the country's border with Malaysia as we expect many Thai citizens living in Kelantan and other states in Malaysia to return to their hometowns to celebrate Aidiladha.
"Strict checks will be carried out at our checkpoints with Malaysia. Some Thais will return using various modes of transport. They will pass through the checkpoints.
"However, some may use the routes such as the illegal jetty along the Golok river. I have directed my officers to ask such people to turn back if they use any illegal jetty to cross over. They must use proper route via the border checkpoint,"Phaisarn told Malaysian reporters when accompanying delegates from the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation who visited the southern border here yesterday.
He said it was better for everyone to use border checkpoints because this was safer.
"I believe during this holiday period, Malaysians will also take the opportunity to travel to Thai provinces such as Yala and Songkhla.
"Malaysians should not worry about their safety here as authorities in both countries continue to co-operate with each other to ensure border security.
"There are many tourist attractions in Thailand and the safety of Malaysians are our priority," he added.
He said Thailand and Malaysia continue to have strong ties, and work together to guard the safety of its shared border.
"With Malaysia, we have even carried out joint border operation together. Our intelligence officers on both sides have good co-operation. There is a good relationship between us," he added.