On September 2, 2025, Thailand hosted the 15th Working Group Meeting of the Thailand-Malaysia Committee on Joint Development Strategy for Border Areas (JDS) at the Rua Rasada Hotel in Trang Province. Ms. Sasithon Palatthadech, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), chaired the meeting, with Datuk Dr. Zunika binti Muhammad , Deputy Secretary-General of the Ministry of Economy of Malaysia, as co-chair. Representatives from government agencies of both Thailand and Malaysia attended the meeting.
During the meeting, participants discussed the progress of actions following the 6th JDS Ministerial Meeting and the JDS Strategic Plan 2024-2037. The focus was on enhancing connectivity, strengthening competitiveness, and developing human capital. Key projects were highlighted, particularly the road linking the new Sadao checkpoint to Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint, expected to open in early 2026, and the second Sungai Kolok – Rantau Panjang bridge, anticipated to open in early 2028. Progress on other significant projects was also reported, including the double-track railway from Hat Yai to Padang Besar connecting with the Padang Besar – Ipoh double-track railway, the Perlis Inland Port project, infrastructure development to support Special Border Economic Zone connectivity, cooperation in tourism, rubber industry collaboration, and educational partnerships. The meeting emphasized the importance of accelerating implementation according to planned timelines and discussed approaches to enhance multi-dimensional connectivity and facilitate trade and investment in the future.
On this occasion, the Thai side emphasized leveraging cooperation in Customs, Immigration, and Quarantine (FOC CIQ) under the IMT-GT framework, which was signed in May 2025. Thailand and Malaysia need to further discuss the details of related operational plans. They also promoted the use of investment benefits in Special Border Economic Zones and supported the connection of tourism routes between the two countries under the concept of “Two Countries, One Destination.”
Both parties agreed to conduct a Mid-Term Review of the JDS Strategic Plan in 2026 and reaffirmed their commitment to fostering cooperation and working closely to drive economic growth in the border areas of both countries.
News/Images: International Strategy and Cooperation Coordination Division