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was asked to pay fees at malaysian-thai border crossing (sadao) by thai immigration?
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thebigjebow-
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I recently visited Hat Yai, Thailand with my uncle and my aunt. We took a bus from Kuala Lumpur and entered Thailand at the Sadao crossing. The Thai immigration officer asked us for RM2 each, without saying what it is for. Not wanting to cause any fuss, we paid. After all, what is 2 ringgit?
Coming back into Malaysia a couple of days later, the thai immigration officer this time asked me to pay RM10, saying something about how I don't have a visa in Malaysia and that time on my malaysian stamp is about to expire so I have to pay 10 ringgit. Again, not wanting to cause a fuss, we paid the amount.
I guess what I want to confirm is this a common occurrence at border crossings? I'm just curious because none of the people ahead of us paid anything and malaysian immigration never ask for anything.
Granted, part of the reason we did not want to cause a fuss was because my visit was to get another 30 days in malaysia (although my first and only visa run). My uncle and aunt hold employment visas in malaysia.
I'm asking the obvious I know, but if someone can shed some light on this, it'd be much appreciated. Thanks.
#1 Posted: 29/10/2012 - 17:02
goonistik
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Ahhhh...that is a shakedown. Googling for "Sadao bribes" will illuminate much.
#2 Posted: 29/10/2012 - 22:33
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thebigjebow-
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Thanks for the tip. Guess that confirms what I already suspected. I wonder if one refuses to pay, what happens...
#3 Posted: 30/10/2012 - 06:33
goonistik
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As the old Chinese proverb goes, "Money falls into the hands of a state official like a lamb into the mouth of a tiger."
As to what happens if you refuse to pay depends on the mood and character of the officer. It is difficult to negotiate with an avaricious official in a foul mood. For 10 ringgit, you are better off not knowing.
#4 Posted: 30/10/2012 - 22:43
JP90
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This is a clear example of "local" rules.
Refusing to pay might lead to a delay up to several hours, luggage search, or nothing. So far I experienced all three
#5 Posted: 4/11/2012 - 10:06