BANGKOK: There have been no reports of Malaysians affected by the clashes between pro- and anti-government protesters here yesterday, but the Malaysian embassy has advised Malaysians to postpone trips to Thailand unless they are urgent.
He said the clashes were confined to specific areas near the Government House and Rajamdamnoen Road, while most parts of the capital remained calm and business went on as usual, except for schools which have been closed for three days.
"This is an internal problem and not really a security matter. The protesters have not targeted foreigners, though we advise Malaysians to postpone their trips, unless it is urgent," he said.
Furthermore, there is a possibility that they could face inconvenience in terms of transportation or a strike by some state agencies, he said, citing the ongoing disruption of railway services as well as the closing of airports a few days ago in Phuket, Krabi and Hatyai.
In clashes early yesterday morning, a man was killed and at least 40 people injured, some by gunshots, when pro- and anti-government supporters clashed near the seized Government House, forcing hundreds of Thai soldiers to move in to restore order.
On Aug 26, thousands of anti-government supporters stormed Government House, the seat of the prime minister's office, while hundreds of rival pro-government groups tried to evacuate them yesterday morning. Samak, who has vowed to stay put despite calls by anti-government supporters to resign, has declared a state of emergency here, and instructed army chief General Anupong Paojinda to take charge of security.
Syed Mohamad Bakri said many Malaysians have called or emailed the embassy to find out about the situation and that Wisma Putra was constantly updated on conditions here. -- Bernama
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