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Malaysians have been advised to postpone their trips to Thailand during the Hari Raya holidays due to fuel shortages and price hikes that could leave motorists stranded
According to The Malaysian Reserve, petrol stations in popular tourist areas such as Hat Yai in southern Thailand are reportedly running low on fuel or implementing rationing measures following global oil price increases linked to Middle East tensions.
With the festive travel season approaching, there are also concerns that Thai authorities may introduce stricter controls, including limiting petrol purchases for foreign vehicles.
A sign at a petrol station in Samut Prakan on Tuesday, 17 March, reads 'Fuel out of stock'.
Image via Bangkok PostTo manage rising global costs, the Thai government announced petrol and diesel price increases starting Wednesday, 18 March
As of 18 March, standard Gasohol 95 is priced at about 31 to 32 baht (approximately RM3.65) per litre, while premium petrol grades are nearing 50 baht (about RM6) per litre. Diesel prices have also been adjusted toward a new 33 baht (about RM4) per litre ceiling.
According to Bangkok Post, drivers across Thailand were seen queueing at petrol stations on Tuesday ahead of the price increase.
Panic buying and fuel hoarding has reportedly contributed to temporary localised shortages with some smaller petrol stations forced to halt sales after running out of supply.
Motorcyclists queue to refuel at a petrol station in Bangkok.
Image via FMTTourism operator Abdul Halim Othman, a Malaysian residing in Satun province, said many petrol stations are now limiting petrol purchases for cars and vans to 500 baht (about RM60) per refill
"For motorcycles, only 50 baht (around RM6) worth of petrol is allowed per vehicle," he said.
He advised Malaysians to plan trips to destinations further from the border for the time being to reduce the risk of facing fuel shortages if supply disruptions worsen.
Meanwhile, a Thai tourist van driver known only as Hafis confirmed that it has become increasingly difficult to purchase petrol and diesel
"Many petrol stations have temporarily closed after running out of fuel, while those still operating are selling fuel under quotas — 500 baht (RM60) for cars and 50 baht (RM6) for motorcycles.
"Some stations are also only left with premium fuel, priced at about 43.80 baht (around RM5.30) per litre for diesel and 40.40 baht (about RM4.89) per litre for petrol, as cheaper options have already run out," he said.
He added that he had to postpone bookings from Malaysian tourists who had planned to use his services.
