PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s recent diplomatic engagements in Thailand reflect a clear commitment to both regional collaboration and strategic development.
During his visit on Thursday, Anwar praised the Thai government for its steadfast dedication to advancing bilateral relations, particularly through long-awaited cross-border infrastructure projects.
“I also wish to congratulate the Thai government on its dedication to strengthening bilateral relations and border projects,” Anwar stated, responding to Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s welcoming remarks at Government House.
“These projects have been longstanding, and under your leadership, they have been realised.”
The meeting, held on short notice, brought together key figures from both governments. Malaysia’s delegation included Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, Foreign Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Seri Amran Mohamed Zin, and ASEAN’s Special Envoy to Myanmar, Tan Sri Othman Hashim.
On the Thai side, Prime Minister Paetongtarn was joined by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport Suriya Juangroongruangkit, and Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa.
A significant result of the discussions was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Rantau Panjang–Sungai Golok Bridge Project. Both leaders were present to witness the exchange of the Construction Agreement, underscoring the importance of infrastructure in bolstering ties between the two nations.
“We will continue to collaborate and assist each other on various issues affecting the world today,” Paetongtarn said, echoing the spirit of mutual responsibility.
This marks Anwar’s second visit to Thailand since he assumed office in 2022, reinforcing Malaysia’s efforts to strengthen its relationship with one of its key ASEAN trading partners.
In 2024, Thailand was Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner within ASEAN, with trade reaching USD25.03 billion (RM114.56 billion).
Trade between the two countries increased further in the first two months of 2025, reaching USD3.96 billion (RM17.65 billion), compared to USD3.67 billion (RM16.80 billion) during the same period the previous year.
As both countries continue to collaborate on infrastructure and trade, Anwar’s visit exemplifies the importance of shared progress in achieving mutual goals for growth and stability in the region.
Maybank R.I.S.E.s to uplift underserved communities
Yet Anwar’s diplomacy is not confined to government halls.
Just hours before departing for Thailand, he attended Maybank Group’s Hari Raya celebration, where he recognised the efforts of participants in the R.I.S.E. (Reach Independence and Sustainable Entrepreneurship) programme—an initiative aimed at uplifting underserved communities across ASEAN.
In a Facebook post, Anwar praised the programme’s tangible outcomes in countries including Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Laos, Cambodia and Singapore.
“Alhamdulillah, I had the opportunity to attend Maybank Group’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration today before departing for my working visit to Thailand,” he wrote.
“I also had the chance to present appreciation awards to participants of the R.I.S.E. programme, a crucial initiative by Maybank to strengthen entrepreneurship, especially among disadvantaged communities including people with disabilities across the ASEAN region.”
“Congratulations to Maybank for this noble initiative. May such programmes continue to grow in building a more just and prosperous future,” he added.
In both diplomacy and development, Anwar’s message remains consistent: cooperation across borders and compassion at the grassroots level are essential pillars for a stronger, fairer ASEAN.
Through R.I.S.E., Maybank has demonstrated a commitment to creating sustainable opportunities for entrepreneurship, benefiting communities that often face barriers to success. Anwar’s praise underscores the importance of initiatives that not only drive economic growth but also promote social inclusion across the region. - April 17, 2025
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