Marriage registrations for Malaysian couples in southern Thailand have dropped 40% since tightened border controls on December 1, with only 1-2 registrations daily compared to 4-5 previously.
PETALING JAYA: Recent border control measures between Malaysia and Thailand have led to a significant 40% drop in marriages occurring in southern Thailand. Previously, over 300 Malaysian couples, primarily from Kelantan and Terengganu, registered to marry in Narathiwat, with most applicants being men over 30 seeking polygamous unions.
According to Abdul Aziz Che Mamat, Deputy President of the Narathiwat Islamic Religious Council, daily marriage registrations have plummeted from 4-5 couples to just 1-2 since December. Many Malaysians now prefer to head directly to Songkhla province for their ceremonies, highlighting the impact of stricter regulations.
Despite the decrease, the council remains committed to facilitating marriage processes for couples who comply with requirements. Abdul Aziz has urged the Malaysian Consulate in Songkhla to expedite marriage document processing to ensure newlyweds receive their paperwork promptly, enhancing the overall experience for engaged couples.
Source : Marriage in southern Thailand drop following border controls
