BANGKOK, Oct 20 — 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.
The partnership, forged during the communist insurgency along their shared border, has evolved over six decades into a multidimensional strategic alliance that supports both countries’ security interests and contributes to ASEAN stability.
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,” Zaidi said in his speech during the 93rd Anniversary of the Malaysian Armed Forces celebration today.
Thailand’s Chief of Defence Forces General Ukris Boontanondha attended as the guest of honour, along with Royal Thai Armed Forces Chief of Joint Staff General Nattapong, Malaysian Defence Attaché to Thailand Brigadier General Datuk Samsul Rizal Musa, and 400 invited guests.
He added that bilateral cooperation is sustained through mechanisms such as the General Border Committee, the High-Level Committee, and the 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,” Zaidi said.
Malaysia and Thailand also cooperate to address non-traditional security threats such as human trafficking and cybercrime, as well as disaster response.
Beyond defence, both nations 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.
Zaidi noted that closer bilateral ties will also help reinforce ASEAN’s position as an integrated and competitive regional production hub while advancing regional stability.
