YALA: Wealth and good looks are still the main attraction that causes some Thai women, especially in the southern region of the country, to choose Malaysian men as their life partners even though they have to share love as a second wife.

Imam of the Al-Furqan Mosque in Pattani, Mukhlis Mustafa Dorlohn, said that this tendency is not new, but is becoming more pronounced among Malay women in Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani who consider Malaysian men to be more responsible and financially capable.

“There are Thai women who are attracted to Malaysian men because they are seen as more handsome, wealthy and good at winning hearts. Even though they know they will become second wives, they are still willing because they believe they will have a more stable life.”

“For Thai women, especially from less affluent families, the opportunity to marry a Malaysian man is considered an improvement in their standard of living,” he told Malaysian media in a special interview session at the Yala Grand Mosque, here, recently.

However, he said, there are also Thai Malay women who are highly educated or come from wealthy families who also choose Malaysian men because it is difficult to find a suitable or compatible partner in their country.

“Some successful older Thai women also choose Malaysian men because they feel that local men are less capable or do not suit their tastes, especially when more and more people are involved with unhealthy symptoms,” he said.

Mukhlis said some Malaysian men also see cross-border marriage as a way to build a new life or expand their business, given that the cost of doing business in Malaysia is higher.
“Some marry Thai women initially not just out of love, but also because of economic factors, because they know the capital to open a shop or business there is lower,” he explained.

According to him, the cost of a wedding dowry in southern Thailand varies by region, but on average is around 100,000 baht (approximately RM12,000) and can be as low as 30,000 to 50,000 baht for a more modest family, making the cost of a wedding in Thailand cheaper than in Malaysia.

“In the three southern provinces of Thailand, marriage matters are easier because there is a general guardian. If both parties have agreed, the process is quick and uncomplicated,” he said.

Mukhlis said the friendly atmosphere between communities on the border also facilitated cross-border relationships, including through social media which is now the main platform for introductions between Malaysian men and Thai women.

“Thai women are usually happy when Malaysian men come and compliment their delicious food and their beauty. That’s where relationships begin. “This situation is expected to continue as long as social and economic relations between the two countries remain close,” he said.

— BERNAMA