Thailand and Malaysia Enhance Tourism and Border Cooperation
PUBLISHED: 16 Dec 2024 at 16:34
In a significant development for regional cooperation, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has appointed former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal advisor ahead of Malaysia’s upcoming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year. This announcement was made at a joint press conference with Thaksin’s daughter, Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, during her two-day visit to Malaysia.
Prime Minister Anwar stated, “I have agreed to appoint (Thaksin) as my informal advisor on chairing ASEAN, along with a team of members from ASEAN countries in an informal setup.” Malaysia is set to assume the ASEAN chair next year as Laos concludes its current term.
Following their meeting, the two leaders expressed intentions to connect their tourism initiatives, aiming to enhance the tourism sector and strengthen border relations. Thailand’s “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year” campaign will kick off next year, while Malaysia has designated 2026 as its “Visit Malaysia Year.”
During the discussions, the Malaysian Prime Minister provided support for Thailand’s proposed “Six Countries, One Destination” initiative, aimed at creating a streamlined travel experience across Southeast Asia, akin to the Schengen Area in the European Union. However, the joint statement emphasized the need for further discussions regarding this initiative.
Additionally, the two prime ministers announced plans to expedite the construction of a new bridge that will connect the Sungai Kolok district of Narathiwat, Thailand, and Rantau Panjang in Kelantan, Malaysia, within the next three years. They also committed to enhancing cooperation in road, rail, and customs links at their border to foster economic activities and development.
With an ambitious target, both countries aim to boost bilateral trade to reach $30 million by 2027. Furthermore, Thailand has expressed support for Malaysia’s initiatives to address the ongoing situation in Myanmar, with plans to establish the office of a special ASEAN envoy on Myanmar when Malaysia takes over the chairmanship from Laos.
