The Minister of Tourism and Sports participated in opening the new Sadao Customs checkpoint in Songkhla Province, aiming to facilitate travel and stimulate the southern border economy. It is forecasted that in 2026, over 4.67 million Malaysian tourists will enter Thailand.
10 Jul 2026 10:30 GMT+7 Mr. Surasak Pancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports He revealed that he joined the Prime Minister and delegation to visit the new Sadao Customs checkpoint in Sadao District, Songkhla Province, along with Mr. Patsakorn Rangsivattanasak, Secretary to the Minister of Tourism and Sports, and spokesperson Ms. Natriya Taweewong, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry. They listened to a briefing on the operations of the new Sadao Customs checkpoint and participated in the opening ceremony of the road linking the new Sadao checkpoint with Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint in Malaysia, which will enhance travel, trade, and tourism between the two countries.
Mr. Surasak stated that opening the new Sadao border checkpoint is a crucial factor facilitating travel between Thailand and Malaysia, especially for Malaysian tourists who prefer traveling by private car. Having a land checkpoint capable of handling more travelers will make entering Thailand more convenient, faster, and smoother. Developing transportation infrastructure and border connectivity is essential to supporting the country's tourism. He is confident that the new Sadao checkpoint and connecting road will increase the number of Malaysian tourists entering Thailand, boost the southern border economy and tourism, and create opportunities for long-term growth in the tourism industry.
Data on the number of Malaysian tourists entering Thailand shows a continuous growth trend, with details as follows:
Investing in infrastructure development in border areas is a crucial government preparation to accommodate increased purchasing power and a growing number of tourists in the future.