Regretful statement issued by Sorawong regarding the assault experienced by two Malaysian vacationers in Bangkok
In a shocking incident, two Malaysian tourists were violently assaulted in Bangkok's Ratchaprasong area on the night of August 7, 2025. The attack, perpetrated by a 30-year-old unemployed Thai man named Worakorn Phabthaisong, left the victims severely injured after they were doused with thinner and set on fire outside a prominent shopping mall.
Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, expressed deep regret and concern over the incident. In response, the ministry has announced a series of measures aimed at assisting the victims and boosting confidence among international visitors.
Firstly, the ministry will provide urgent assistance and close protection through the Tourist Police and relevant security units. This includes directing the Tourist Assistance Centre (TAC) to monitor medical treatment, facilitate foreign language communication, coordinate with the Malaysian Embassy, hospitals, insurers, and police agencies.
Secondly, the ministry will assist the tourists in applying for compensation under Thailand’s aid scheme for injured and deceased foreign visitors.
Thirdly, Sorawong has ordered tighter security measures in major tourist areas to boost confidence among international visitors. This move is intended to maintain Thailand's reputation as a safe, attractive destination.
The minister stressed that the victims' safety is of utmost importance. He emphasised that the assault was an isolated incident and not representative of Thailand's hospitality.
Additionally, the victims' families have expressed a desire to have them repatriated back to Malaysia for further care. The ministry is currently coordinating with the relevant authorities to facilitate this request.
The assault has understandably shaken the tourism industry in Thailand. However, Sorawong remains optimistic, stating, "We will not let this incident deter us from our commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all our visitors."
[1] The Nation Thailand - "Two Malaysian tourists assaulted in Bangkok's Ratchaprasong area" [2] Bangkok Post - "Tourist attacker confesses, cites unemployment as motive" [3] The Star Online - "Bystander saves Malaysian tourists from attacker in Bangkok" [4] The Star Online - "Thai minister promises tighter security in tourist areas" [5] The Star Online - "Victims' families request repatriation to Malaysia"
- The shocking incident of violence towards two Malaysian tourists in Bangkok's Ratchaprasong area has sparked concerns about the general safety of international tourists, making headlines in international news, tourism, and crime-and-justice categories.
- In a show of solidarity and proactive measures, Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister, Sorawong Thienthong, has pledged to ensure the health and safety of tourists, addressing the issue in both sports and health sectors; he also intends to maintain Thailand's successful reputation in tourism.
- Politically, the assault is a test for Thailand's government and leadership as they work diligently to boost international culture and diplomacy while addressing domestic crime-and-justice issues.
- As the investigation unfolds, it raises questions about the impact of unemployment and mental health on an individual's actions, becoming a topic of discussion in both political and general-news avenues.
