Close Anwar-Paetongtarn bond spurs economic, strategic collaboration
Regular communication between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Thai prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has paved the way for more strategic collaboration, said Thai foreign minister Maris Sangiampongsa. (Bernama pic)
PETALING JAYA : Malaysia and Thailand are entering a new phase of stronger bilateral ties driven by the close relationship between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Thai prime minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, says a senior Thai official.
Thai foreign minister Maris Sangiampongsa said the rapport between the two leaders reflected a growing partnership focused on cooperation across multiple sectors, especially in border regions, reported Bernama.
'The prime ministers have built a strong bond. This opens up opportunities, not just in trade and investment, but also in security,' he told Bernama during the 46th Asean Summit held here recently.
He added that regular communication between both leaders had strengthened mutual understanding and paved the way for more strategic collaboration.
Thailand remains a key economic partner for Malaysia. In 2024, it was Malaysia's seventh-largest trading partner globally and third-largest within Asean, with total trade reaching US$25.03 billion (RM114.56 billion).
Trade between the two countries rose to US$3.96 billion (RM17.65 billion) from January to February this year, up from US$3.67 billion (RM16.80 billion) in the same period last year.
Both governments are committed to developing the shared border into a vibrant economic corridor, focusing on trade, investment, and cross-border infrastructure to enhance connectivity.
Efforts are also underway to integrate special border economic zones to further boost trade and investment in the border areas, which currently account for over 30% of total bilateral trade.
Maris described joint border development as a model of mutually beneficial cooperation. He pointed to sectors with high potential – including the halal industry, palm oil, and rubber – as areas for further collaboration.
'While both governments can facilitate opportunities, success depends on strong private sector participation,' he said.
'There are solid policies in place that can support greater business collaboration and regional development.'
Anwar and Paetongtarn have maintained regular contact through meetings and phone calls. They have met three times to date: in Putrajaya in December, Bangkok in April, and most recently at the Asean Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
They have also agreed to hold a joint Cabinet meeting later this year at the Sadao-Bukit Kayu Hitam border area.
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