PETALING JAYA: The Thai government will provide up to 550,000 baht (about RM72,000) in compensation to each of the two Malaysian tourists who were set on fire by an unemployed man in Bangkok last Thursday.
Thailand’s tourism and sports ministry said the Malaysians’ medical expenses will be reimbursed up to a maximum of 500,000 baht, Bernama reported.
The duo will also receive 50,000 baht for emotional distress.
The ministry’s permanent secretary, Natreeya Taweewong, said the condition of the two victims – Gan Xiao Zhen, 27, and Ong Yik Leong, 26 – had improved significantly, with Gan now able to communicate through writing.
Natreeya said that while the duo’s families want to transfer them back to Malaysia for further treatment, doctors have not recommended travel at this time.
She said her ministry is working with other agencies to ensure that Gan and Ong receive the best possible medical care, logistical support, and psychological assistance.
Gan and Ong were attacked by a frustrated unemployed man who allegedly doused them with thinner before setting them alight near a shopping mall on Ratchadamri Road in the Thai capital at about 10pm last Thursday.
Gan sustained second-degree burns over 36% of her body, including her face, chest and arm, while her boyfriend, Ong, suffered second-degree burns to his upper body.
