By Kenny Teng Khoon Hock
BANGKOK, July 24 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Embassy in Thailand has advised Malaysians to avoid disputed areas along the Thai-Cambodian border amid rising military tensions between the two neighbours.
Malaysia’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim to Thailand, Bong Yik Jui, said no Malaysians have so far been reported injured or affected by the ongoing exchange of artillery fire in six locations: Ta Muen Thom Temple, Ta Kwai Temple, Chong Bok, Preah Vihear, Chong An Ma, and Chong Chom.
He said these areas are all located in border zones with checkpoints, and some bikers or caravan travellers might inadvertently enter them.
Bong said three registered Malaysians are residing in the reported provinces.
“After being contacted, all three have confirmed that they are safe. No requests for assistance have been received so far," he told Bernama when contacted on Thursday.
Bong urged Malaysians in the affected areas to register with the embassy to ensure they receive timely updates and support in the event of an emergency, and should any Malaysian require assistance, they can contact the embassy’s helpline at +66 87028 4659.
He said the embassy will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates when necessary.
Thai and Cambodian troops reportedly clashed early Thursday in a disputed area along their shared border, with both sides accusing each other of initiating the latest confrontation.
Tensions between the two Southeast Asian neighbours have been rising since May 28, following a deadly border clash near the Preah Vihear area that left one Cambodian soldier dead.
The two Southeast Asian neighbours have been disputing an 817-km undemarcated border for decades, which continues to sour diplomatic ties.
On Wednesday, the Thai government downgraded diplomatic relations with Cambodia in immediate retaliation after a Thai soldier was injured by what the government claimed was a newly planted landmine.
The Cambodian government reciprocated by lowering its diplomatic ties with Thailand to the lowest level on Thursday.
-- BERNAMA
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