KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Embassy in Bangkok has advised Malaysians travelling to the country to ensure they carry enough cash for the duration of their stay.
Malaysian top envoy in Thailand Datuk Jojie Samuel was responding to reports of an Indonesian envoy who said all foreign tourists entering Thailand, regardless of their country of origin, must carry a minimum of THB15,000 or approximately RM1,992 in cash.
This is however not a new requirement as Thailand has been imposing a minimum cash limit on foreign visitors for the last decade.
Samuel said it was important for tourists from Malaysia to have proof of accommodation, enough cash as well as travel insurance for their time in Thailand.
"The Thai authorities have the right to refuse entry to tourists who cannot establish that they have enough money and a place of accommodation.
"The Thai authorities do not check every tourist that comes in but rather, at random.
"This is the same for all countries' authorities, especially the immigration authority," he said to the New Straits Times.
Samuel clarified that the background to the Indonesian issue was that many Indonesians were denied entry to Thailand due to their inability to demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay.
"The Indonesian embassy is advising their citizens to have enough money for the duration of their stay.
"Meanwhile for Malaysians entering Thailand, thus far we have not heard or received any news of them being denied entry," he said.
Last week, Minister Counsellor of the Indonesian Embassy in Bangkok, Dewi Lestari issued an advisory specifying entry requirements for Indonesians, including a valid passport with a minimum six-month validity, proof of return ticket, and evidence of accommodation.
Additionally, visitors are expected to demonstrate financial capability by carrying sufficient cash during their stay, with an estimate of at least THB15,000- THB20,000 per person.