KUALA LUMPUR – Malaysians have been advised to steer clear of the Thai-Cambodian border following deadly military clashes that killed at least 10 people, including Thai civilians, and left several others injured, including a 5-year-old child.
The Malaysian Embassy in Bangkok issued the warning after violence broke out early Thursday at several flashpoints along the contested frontier, prompting Thailand to launch airstrikes and evacuate thousands of people from nearby villages. Authorities in both countries have closed border crossings and placed troops on high alert, fuelling fears of a prolonged standoff.
Malaysia’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim to Thailand, Bong Yik Jui, told Bernama that no Malaysians have been caught in the fighting so far.
“Three registered Malaysians residing in the affected provinces have confirmed that they are safe. No requests for assistance have been received so far,” he said.
He added that some Malaysians – particularly those travelling by motorbike or in caravans – might unknowingly enter restricted areas where clashes are taking place.
“These areas are all located in border zones with checkpoints,” Bong said, urging Malaysians to avoid them entirely and to register with the embassy for emergency updates.
The affected locations include Ta Muen Thom Temple, Ta Kwai Temple, Chong Bok, Preah Vihear, Chong An Ma and Chong Chom – areas not only close to military flashpoints but also popular among cross-border travellers, nature lovers and cultural tourists.
Many of these sites sit within or near provinces like Sisaket, Surin, Sa Kaeo and Buriram, which are known for their ancient Khmer temple ruins, national parks, and historical attractions. These regions often attract tourists interested in heritage trails and scenic highland drives, especially during the cooler months.
However, some of these same locations are now under military lockdown, with artillery reportedly being fired near residential areas and rocket fire exchanged across the border.
According to Thai officials, Cambodian forces approached a Thai base near Ta Muen Thom temple, ignoring loudspeaker warnings. The situation escalated when gunfire was exchanged, leading to further retaliatory strikes, including the deployment of fighter jets.
Cambodia, meanwhile, has accused Thailand of violating its territory, saying its forces only returned fire in self-defence.
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said, “We have always sought peaceful solutions, but in this case, we had no choice but to defend ourselves against armed aggression.”
By mid-morning today, fighting had spread across multiple locations. According to reports, 10 fatalities were reported, including civilians. At least seven Thai soldiers are also believed to have been hurt in the clashes.
Thai authorities have evacuated more than 40,000 residents from border villages as a precaution, and the country’s air force has been put on standby.
“All border crossings have been closed since 8am this morning,” said Thai government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsap, adding that ground commanders have been authorised to respond in real time.
Malaysians in Thailand are urged to stay in contact with the embassy, especially if travelling near the eastern provinces. The embassy’s emergency hotline is +66 87028 4659. – July 24, 2025