The move came after leading media groups were contemplating nominating journalists known to be critical of Thaksin to interview him.

Noppadon Pattama, who has acted as Thaksin's de facto spokesman, said his client felt such interviews could cause worry or suspicion for the government and the Council for National Security.

"The former prime minister is ready to help create reconciliation and if any of his interviews may cause problems, he is glad to postpone them. He has given some explanations [in response to allegations against him] over the recent period, so he wants to take a break now," Noppadon said.

He said several local and foreign media organisations had joined a queue for interviews with the ex-premier.

On Sunday, Noppadon invited local reporters to register for interviews with Thaksin overseas. It was reported later that the venue might be Australia.

Thaksin has lived in exile since he was overthrown in last September's coup, first in London and is now hopping around Asia.

Yesterday, Thaksin arrived in Bali for golf and shopping on his second visit to the Indonesian resort island since he was ousted in a coup last year, Agence France-Presse reported from Jakarta.

Thaksin landed in a private plane and later played a round of golf at the Tabanan course. "I enjoy golf. I like this place [Bali] and stay here to play golf," he told reporters, the Detikcom news portal reported.

Thaksin said he had no plans to catch up with his friend, Social Welfare Minister Aburizal Bakrie this time. Bakrie was reportedly occupied with the floods in Jakarta.

"I will only play golf. I am enjoying my long vacation. After not being Thai PM, I have plenty of time to relax," he said, adding he would also go shopping.

Thaksin last visited Bali for a few days with his wife in November and stayed at a secluded residence attached to a luxury hotel in the Nusa Dua tourist area.