BTB
Thailand’s southern region is shaking off its troubles and is embarking on a three-month long promotion targeting Malaysian tourists.
The region, which borders northern Malaysia, has gone into an economic slump since violence erupted in three border provinces two years ago. The region serves as southern entry points for travelers by road to Thailand.
“Pattani is eager to welcome back Malaysian tourists,” said Panu Uthairat, province governor. “We have invited some 17 Malaysian tour operators to attend a meeting with their Thai counterparts in Pattani to boost local tourism.”
The governor added, Malaysian Muslims will be awarded ‘holy coins’ to protect them from dangers while traveling in the province.
A Thai tour operator has been successful in starting a direct Kuala Lumpur-Pattani service, bringing in a bus full of tourists daily.
Local hoteliers too, have reduced rates to draw tourists back to the region.
The region, once rich in Islamic history, gained its status as the center of the region’s Muslim sultanate. In the past, it has managed to draw visitors from Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia and other Muslim tourists. * etn/dwi
