In Thailand’s southern provinces, wealth, good looks, and financial security lure some women into becoming second wives to Malaysian men.
Mukhlis Mustafa Dollahn, imam of Al-Furqan Mosque in Pattani, observes this trend firsthand. Many local women view such marriages as a route to a better life.
“Many Thai women choose to marry Malaysian men because they are financially stable and take good care of their families,” Mukhlis told Malaysian media during a meeting in Yala on Wednesday.
No Hesitation Over Polygamy
These women, he says, accept second-wife status without qualms—if the husband is rich and responsible.
Most hail from Narathiwat, Pattani, and Yala. Malaysian suitors often supply startup capital for small businesses or aid to their families.
“It doesn’t have to be young men—even older ones are accepted as long as they have money,” Mukhlis said with a smile.
Weddings Across the Border
Songkhla emerges as the favoured venue. Local authorities and Islamic councils there streamline registration for binational couples.
Malaysian men typically cross via checkpoints like Bukit Kayu Hitam to meet brides-to-be before tying the knot.
“From what we’ve seen, these relationships are based on mutual understanding,” Mukhlis noted.
Women gain stability; men receive companionship and loyalty.
Ties That Bind
Cultural and language gaps pose little barrier. Close social and religious links along the Malaysia-Thailand border sustain these unions.
Southern Thailand has long drawn Malaysians eager to wed with fewer hurdles than at home.
Hotspots for Cross-Border Unions
Areas like Danok, Sadao, Sungai Golok, Narathiwat, and Songkhla host many ceremonies. Marriages follow Islamic law and gain recognition in Malaysia later.
Local Islamic offices process hundreds of Malaysian applications yearly.
Some mark first marriages, but polygamous ones—second or third wives—are common too.
