Thailand is expanding its tourism reach by boosting cross-border linkages with Malaysia, to increase regional visitation. While Malaysia slid from Thailand’s top source market in 2023 to second place this year, Malaysian visitor numbers are expected to exceed last year’s record of 4.4 million visitors.
From January 1 to October 23, 2024, more than 4 million Malaysians visited Thailand, with hopes of exceeding 5 million by the end of the year. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) expects THB 3.5 trillion ($103 billion) in tourism earnings and 36.7 million international tourists in 2024.
Thailand has launched a Self-Drive Tourism Fun Map for Malaysian visitors, which provides route information and local recommendations for a seamless journey across both countries. A cross-border caravan route also connects Sadao Checkpoint in Thailand to Bukit Kayu Hitam in Malaysia, making it more convenient for road travellers. Expanding rail connectivity, such as the link connecting Kuala Lumpur and Hat Yai in Songkhla, reinforces this cross-border ambition and aligns with ASEAN’s aim for regional travel.
Festivals such as “Thailand’s Grand Invitation” and the Loi Krathong Festival highlight Thailand’s invitation to Malaysians to enjoy cultural experiences in the country’s southern provinces, indicating an improvement in Thailand-Malaysia tourism relations.
