Malaysia-Thailand Defence Ties Key To Border Security, Regional Stability – Wan Zaidi

By Kenny Teng

BANGKOK, Oct 20 (Bernama) -- Defence cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand, such as joint operations and intelligence sharing to address cross-border threats, remains vital to safeguarding border security and regional stability, said Malaysian Ambassador to Thailand Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah.

Wan Zaidi said the partnership, forged since the communist insurgency along their shared border, has evolved over six decades to become a multidimensional strategic alliance that supports both countries’ security interests and contributes to ASEAN stability.

He said the signing of the Border Cooperation Agreement on March 13, 1965, marked a key milestone in institutionalising defence cooperation between the two neighbours.

“Today, we profoundly honour those brave men and women whose dedication and sacrifice during that challenging era laid the foundational bedrock for the enduring military and security ties we enjoy today,” he said in his speech at the 93rd Anniversary of the Malaysian Armed Forces celebration here on Tuesday.

The reception was attended by Thailand’s Chief of Defence Forces General Ukris Boontanondha as the guest of honour, Royal Thai Armed Forces Chief of Joint Staff General Nattapong, Malaysian Defence Attaché to Thailand Brigadier General Datuk Samsul Rizal Musa, and about 400 invited guests.

Wan Zaidi said bilateral cooperation is sustained through mechanisms such as the General Border Committee, High-Level Committee, and Regional Border Committee, as well as joint patrols, military exercises, commanders’ conferences, and personnel exchange programmes.

“These initiatives have strengthened operational coordination while fostering trust, mutual respect, and professional ties among military personnel from both countries,” he added.

He said Malaysia and Thailand also cooperate to address non-traditional security threats such as human trafficking and cybercrime, and in disaster response.

Beyond defence, he said the two countries share a strong economic partnership built on more than six decades of growing trade and investment, supported by high-level engagements and close people-to-people ties.

“As Malaysia and Thailand prepare to mark 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 added that closer bilateral ties would also help reinforce ASEAN’s position as an integrated and competitive regional production hub while advancing regional stability.

-- BERNAMA