PASIR MAS: A directive to assist 34 students caught crossing the Malaysia-Thai border illegally comes amid growing awareness of the dangers of unlawful routes along Sungai Golok.
The risk of “mati katak” (to die in vain) – a term used to describe those who perish without protection or recourse – is no longer taken lightly after the incident.
The case has prompted residents along the Malaysia-Thailand border to use safer travel routes, Bernama reported.
A survey at the Rantau Panjang Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex found a noticeable rise in official crossings use, especially during early morning hours when parents send their children to school.
Rantau Panjang Border Control and Protection Agency deputy commander Bakri Sulaiman said choosing legal routes not only ensures compliance with the law but also safeguards lives.
“Crossing the river illegally by boat is extremely dangerous, particularly during unstable weather, as it exposes users to risks such as capsizing.
“If an accident occurs, there is no insurance or protection,” he said.
