Less Malaysian Tourists Hiring Guides in Hat Yai

Changing Travel Patterns Raise Concerns Among Thai Tour Guides

In recent years, a notable shift has been observed in the travel habits of visitors from Malaysia. More and more Malaysian tourists are opting for private vehicles to explore southern Thailand, a trend that is causing unease among local tour guides who fear it may impact their livelihoods.

Traditionally, Malaysian travelers arrived in groups via vans or buses, often requiring the services of a Thai guide once they crossed into the country. This arrangement provided a steady stream of work for local guides and tour operators. However, this pattern is now changing as an increasing number of Malaysian tourists choose to travel independently.

Songchai Mungprasitthichai, president of the Songkhla Tourism Promotion Association, highlighted this transformation. He noted that more Malaysian visitors are crossing the border in Songkhla province using private vehicles, which do not necessitate the assistance of a guide. According to him, this group now makes up approximately 40% of all visitors to the southern province, although specific details about the change were not disclosed.

Under Thai law, the requirement for a tour guide is waived for tourists traveling in private vehicles with no more than seven passengers. This legal provision has made it easier for independent travelers to explore the region without relying on local guides.

"Tour operators and guides have to adjust to the change," said Songchai. The shift in preferences presents both challenges and opportunities for the tourism sector, prompting industry professionals to adapt to new consumer behaviors.

Witthaya Lim, a guide and former co-founder of the Songkhla Guide Association, acknowledged the growing trend and described it as "a serious problem." He pointed out that these independent travelers do not require the services of a guide during their stay in Thailand, which directly affects the demand for traditional tour services.

Amnart Pruekphikul, another guide, added that one of the main reasons behind this change is the desire to reduce costs amid economic uncertainty. With rising expenses and financial pressures, many Malaysian tourists are seeking more budget-friendly options for their trips.

Malaysian travelers have remained the largest group of foreign visitors to Thailand this year, with 2.29 million visiting the country during the first half of the year. This surpasses the number of tourists from China, who came second with 2.26 million, according to data from the Tourism and Sports Ministry.

Most of these Malaysian visitors cross the Thai border by land in the Sadao district of Songkhla. Their increasing presence in the region underscores the need for the tourism industry to evolve and cater to a more independent and cost-conscious clientele.

As the landscape of tourism continues to change, local guides and tour operators must find innovative ways to remain relevant. Whether through offering specialized tours, enhancing cultural experiences, or leveraging digital platforms to reach potential travelers, the industry must adapt to meet the evolving needs of its customers.

This shift also highlights the importance of understanding the motivations and preferences of modern travelers. While some may prefer the convenience of independent travel, others still value the expertise and insights provided by local guides. Balancing these different needs will be key to ensuring the sustainability and growth of the tourism sector in southern Thailand.