adminBANGKOK: Defence cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand, such as joint operations and intelligence sharing to address cross-border threats, remains important in maintaining border security and regional stability, said Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah.
Wan Zaidi said the partnership, which dates back to the communist insurgency along the shared border, has developed over more than six decades into a multi-dimensional strategic alliance that supports the security interests of both countries and contributes to the stability of ASEAN.
He said the signing of the Border Cooperation Agreement on March 13, 1965 marked an important milestone in institutionalizing defence cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.
“Today, we greatly honour the heroes and heroines whose dedication and sacrifice during those challenging times have laid a solid foundation for the enduring military and security relations that we enjoy today,” he said in his speech at the 93rd Malaysian Armed Forces Day celebration here on Tuesday.
The reception was also attended by the Commander-in-Chief of the Thai Armed Forces, General Ukris Boontanondha as the guest of honour, the Chief of Joint Staff of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, General Nattapong, the Malaysian Defence Attaché to Thailand, Brig Gen Datuk Samsul Rizal Musa and approximately 400 invited guests.
Wan Zaidi said bilateral cooperation is maintained through mechanisms such as the General Border Committee, High-Level Committee and Regional Border Committee, in addition to joint border control, military training, commanders’ conferences and officer exchange programmes.
“These initiatives have strengthened operational coordination while fostering trust, mutual respect and professional relationships among military officers from both countries,” he said.
He said Malaysia and Thailand were also working together in addressing non-traditional security threats, including human trafficking and cybercrime, in addition to enhancing cooperation in disaster response.
Apart from defence, he said the two countries share a strong economic partnership built on the foundation of growing trade and investment over more than six decades, supported by high-level engagement and close people-to-people ties.
“As Malaysia and Thailand prepare to celebrate the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027, both countries remain committed to deepening cooperation, strengthening cross-border connectivity and enhancing economic resilience,” he said.
He said closer bilateral relations also helped strengthen ASEAN’s position as an integrated and competitive regional production centre, while also advancing the stability of the region.
— BERNAMA
