Thailand has been urged to recognise Malaysia’s digital driving licence through the MyJPJ app to make it easier for Malaysian tourists to drive while visiting the country.
Hat Yai-Songkhla Hotel Association president Dr Sittipong Sittipatprapha said the proposal, supported by several non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and tourism agencies, had been submitted through Thailand’s House of Representatives Tourism Committee, Senate Tourism and Sports Committee and Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT).
He said representatives had also met with House of Representatives Tourism Committee chairman Oratai Kerdsub to discuss issues affecting Malaysian tourists.
“The discussions followed various issues faced by Malaysian tourists when entering and leaving Thailand. Among the matters raised was the proposal to abolish overtime charges of between RM2 and RM4 currently imposed at immigration checkpoints.
“I also asked the Thai government to allow Malaysian tourists to use their online driving licences through the MyJPJ application, as Malaysia has already adopted this system,” he told Utusan Malaysia.
Sittipong said other concerns raised included measures to ease traffic congestion, streamline entry procedures, revive economic activity in border towns and Hat Yai, as well as create a more positive impression among tourists.
Commenting on the recent summons issued to a group of Malaysian motorcyclists in Hat Yai on Saturday, he said his association had received numerous complaints from Malaysian tourists and local business operators regarding Thailand’s strict regulations.
“For now, the regulations, particularly those concerning driving licences, have not changed, and Malaysian tourists are advised to comply with the law.
“The matter involving driving licences is already known to the Songkhla Provincial Police Commander and is currently being considered,” he said.
Sittipong also acknowledged calls from members of the public for authorities to ensure that enforcement was carried out fairly and consistently.
“Some feel it is unfair for Thai citizens to be arrested over noisy exhaust systems while Malaysian tourists are not subjected to similar action. Whether they are Thai citizens or foreigners, everyone must comply with the same laws,” he said.
