PUTRAJAYA, December 23 – Malaysia and Thailand have committed to enhancing bilateral cooperation across key sectors, including cross-border trade, halal industry development, and the digital economy.
Prime Ministers Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Paetongtarn Shinawatra outlined strategies to deepen economic ties, with a focus on boosting the halal economy, estimated to reach US$5 trillion by 2030, through joint export initiatives, research, and public-private partnerships. A Memorandum of Understanding between Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation and Thailand’s Digital Economy Promotion Agency aims to attract angel investors and support technology startups in both nations.
The leaders also emphasized cross-border connectivity, highlighting the importance of accelerating infrastructure projects like the Bukit Kayu Hitam-Sadao checkpoints and integrated rail links. Tourism collaboration was another key focus, with plans for joint campaigns supporting Visit Malaysia 2026 and Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year 2025.
Additionally, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to energy security through initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid and ongoing gas supply cooperation, underscoring their vision for a sustainable and interconnected regional future.
