@James *******
yes thanks.
Long story short been here 5 years on legitimate consecutive extensions of stay based on working... but in February of this year I had my first instance of losing a job prior to the contract finishing; forcing me to leave and return/remain here as a tourist just the past 3 months. Now I've found work again and should be able to secure the Non B without any issue. Have always been here legitimately, just the last couple months have required pop outs and since I live in Hatyai (Canadian nationality) going to Malaysia has been manageable.
I knew my previous "pop out & back in" via land border based on visa exemption was my last one allowed for this year, but if coming back with the NON-B is allowed, by land, I shouldn't have much to worry about.