Is it harder to obtain a multi-entry tourist visa for Thailand after using a 30-day visa exemption?

The user is inquiring whether obtaining a multi-entry tourist visa for Thailand would be challenging if they had previously entered on a 30-day visa exemption and are planning to stay in Thailand for 8 months. They also consider extending their stay with a 30-day extension, leaving for Malaysia, and then applying for the multi-entry visa. Comments indicate that they cannot apply for this visa in Kuala Lumpur unless they are a Malaysian citizen or permanent resident, and it is advised to seek a longer visa prior to entering Thailand.