Malaysian couple set on fire in Bangkok: Family worry medical fees may exceed Thai compensation
The Thai government has said it will cover the couple’s medical cost up to a maximum of 500,000 baht (US$15,400) per person, on top of an emotional distress compensation of 50,000 baht each.Malaysian couple set on fire in Bangkok: Family worry medical fees may exceed Thai compensation

Malaysian couple set on fire in Bangkok: Family worry medical fees may exceed Thai compensation
The Thai government has said it will cover the couple’s medical cost up to a maximum of 500,000 baht (US$15,400) per person, on top of an emotional distress compensation of 50,000 baht each.

Malaysian couple set on fire in Bangkok: Family worry medical fees may exceed Thai compensation
Video screengrabs of the incident and the detained suspect. (Source: Social media)

BANGKOK: The family of a Malaysian couple set on fire in downtown Bangkok while on a holiday fear that the compensation offered by the Thai government may not cover their medical expenses.

Ong Yik Leong, 26 and Gan Xiao Zhen, 27, were reportedly sitting on the steps of Big C shopping centre opposite Central World mall on Ratchadamri Road when an unemployed Thai man allegedly poured thinner on them from behind before setting them alight at about 10 pm last Thursday (Aug 7).

On Monday, the Thai government said it will cover the couple’s medical costs up to a maximum of 500,000 baht (US$15,400) per person, on top of an emotional distress compensation of 50,000 baht each.

This is under its assistance scheme for tourists injured in specific criminal offences or accidents.