Thailand and Malaysia aim to raise bilateral trade to US$30 billion by 2027 while strengthening border security, transport connectivity, tourism, digital payments and clean energy cooperation.
Thailand and Malaysia have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in border security, transport, tourism, trade and investment, with both governments seeking to accelerate joint projects and improve economic links between their border communities. The commitments were discussed during ministerial meetings in Bangkok.
Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow and Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan co-chaired the seventh ministerial meeting of the Thailand-Malaysia Committee on the Joint Development Strategy for Border Areas and the 16th meeting of the Joint Commission for Bilateral Cooperation. The discussions followed recent high-level exchanges and came ahead of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.
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Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to increasing bilateral trade to US$30 billion by 2027. Malaysia is Thailand’s largest trading partner within ASEAN and its fifth-largest trading partner globally in 2025, according to Sihasak. Mohamad estimated current bilateral trade at around US$28 billion, with the potential to reach US$28.5 billion. He said more efficient border trade could help the two countries exceed their target.
Transport connectivity was another priority. The governments agreed to accelerate the construction of the second friendship bridge connecting Su-ngai Kolok in Thailand with Rantau Panjang in Malaysia and discussed reviving the cross-border railway service. They also explored extending border checkpoint operating hours and preparing a master plan for transport links between southern Thailand and northern Malaysia.
The countries will seek closer cooperation in the rubber and halal industries, including stronger coordination on halal certification. They also plan to improve cross-border QR-code payment connections to make transactions more convenient and secure for businesses and travellers.
Security cooperation will focus on intelligence sharing, coordinated patrols against drug and human trafficking, and stronger action against cybercrime. Malaysia will continue facilitating peace talks concerning violence in Thailand’s southern provinces. The governments also intend to sign a memorandum of understanding on defence cooperation in 2027.
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Energy and sustainability also featured in the discussions. Thailand proposed examining a clean electricity grid linking Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore to meet growing demand for low-carbon energy among regional investors. The two sides also called for stronger cooperation on transboundary haze pollution, education and labour protection.
A special working committee is expected to monitor progress on joint border development projects, with Malaysia planning more frequent progress reviews. The next annual consultation between the two prime ministers is expected to take place in 2027, as both countries prepare to mark seven decades of diplomatic relations.