16-12-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has named former Thai Premier Thaksin Shinawatra as his informal advisor for Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, marking a notable shift in regional diplomatic dynamics.
The announcement came during a joint press briefing in Putrajaya with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, who was concluding her two-day Malaysian visit. The appointment signals Malaysia’s intent to leverage experienced regional voices as it prepares to succeed Laos in the ASEAN leadership role.
“We shall establish an informal advisory panel comprising ASEAN member representatives, with Thaksin bringing his wealth of regional experience to the table,” PM Anwar stated, outlining his vision for Malaysia’s chairmanship.
The bilateral talks yielded several promising initiatives, particularly in tourism cooperation. Both nations are poised to explore synergies between their respective tourism campaigns, with Thailand launching its “Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year” in 2025 and Malaysia preparing for “Visit Malaysia 2026”.
Thailand’s ambitious “Six Countries, One Destination” proposal, reminiscent of Europe’s Schengen system, emerged as a key talking point. The scheme, encompassing Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Brunei, aims to implement a unified visa system, though officials indicated further discussions are needed to flesh out the details.
Infrastructure development featured prominently in the discussions, with both leaders expressing optimism about completing a new bridge linking Thailand’s Sungai Kolok district to Malaysia’s Rantau Panjang within three years. The project forms part of a broader initiative to enhance cross-border connectivity through improved road, rail and customs facilities.
The leaders set an ambitious target for bilateral trade, aiming to achieve $30 million in exchanges by 2027. On regional security matters, Thailand voiced support for Malaysia’s approach to the Myanmar crisis, with Kuala Lumpur planning to establish a dedicated ASEAN envoy office for Myanmar during its chairmanship.
