MALAYSIA is intensifying efforts to deepen strategic trade cooperation with Thailand, with particular focus on enhancing cross-border connectivity through the Durian Burung checkpoint in Kedah, according to the Deputy Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Minister Liew Chin Tong.
Responding in the Dewan Rakyat today to a question by Nurul Amin Hamid (Padang Terap), Liew confirmed that the government is working closely with Thai counterparts to ease goods movement across the northern border and support export needs for industries such as Kedah Rubber City (KRC).
“MITI remains committed to strengthening strategic cooperation with the Thai government to facilitate the movement of goods through border entry points, including Durian Burung,” the ministry stated.
However, Liew acknowledged that the Durian Burung Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex lacks the infrastructure required to support high-volume trade, particularly for container cargo.
In response, the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA) is spearheading several strategic initiatives, including a feasibility study on establishing a Border Economic Zone. The study is designed to assess development potential in and around KRC and the Durian Burung vicinity.
Regional cooperation efforts are also underway through the Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) and the Joint Development Strategy (JDS), focusing on key sectors including halal manufacturing, logistics, rubber and tourism. The JDS is aimed at improving international trade frameworks and connectivity across the region.
“Malaysia remains committed to enhancing strategic cooperation with Thailand through platforms such as the Malaysia-Thailand Joint Trade Committee (JTC),” he said. “Both countries have agreed to improve trade facilitation through upgraded infrastructure, streamlined logistics, and efficient border procedures.”
Such enhancements are expected to reduce customs clearance times and lower logistical costs for cross-border trade.
Although the use of Thailand’s Songkhla Port has been suggested as a more efficient export route for northern Malaysian industries, MITI said the government is currently prioritising the optimisation of domestic ports, including those in Penang and Kuala Perlis.
“This is in line with the government’s strategy to strengthen the competitiveness of local ports and ensure that the economic benefits are fully enjoyed by local industry players and communities,” Liew added. - July 28, 2025
