On 8–9 May 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with the Centre for IMT-GT Subregional Cooperation (CIMT) and Mutiara Perlis Sdn Bhd, organized the Economic Forum 2025 under the theme “Towards Seamless Connectivity: A Thailand–Malaysia Dialogue on Economic Integration and Partnerships” in Kuala Lumpur. The forum consisted of a networking reception and panel discussions.

On 9 May 2025, H.E. Ms. Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia, and Mrs. Zaiton Binti Yahya, Director of the Regional Development Division, representing YBHG. Dato’ Nor Azmie Diron, Secretary General of the Ministry of Economy of Malaysia, co-officiated the Economic Forum 2025 at the Imperial Lexis Kuala Lumpur.

 

In her remarks, the Ambassador highlighted that the main objective of the forum was to exchange an update on the latest progress of Thailand – Malaysia cross-border connectivity projects, explore the potential trade and investment opportunities and discuss Thailand – Malaysia economic relations, especially in the areas of Thailand southern provinces and northern states of Malaysia. The forum also aimed to strengthen networks between Thai and Malaysian private sector stakeholders. This initiative is part of the Embassy’s ongoing effort in enhancing Thailand – Malaysia cross-border connectivity.

 

On behalf of the Malaysian government, Mrs. Zaiton Binti Yahya expressed her strong support for this constructive and meaningful initiative. She also affirmed Malaysia’s readiness to work alongside with Thailand in promoting development and connectivity in the border areas, and to advance initiatives and projects under the Joint Development Strategy (JDS) for Thailand–Malaysia Border Areas, as well as within the framework of the IMT-GT (Indonesia-Malaysia-Thailand Growth Triangle), for the shared benefit of both peoples.

 

The forum consisted of two panel discussions. Panel Session 1: Thailand–Malaysia Cross-Border Physical Connectivity Projects and Emerging Opportunities, moderated by Dato’ Sri Mustapa Bin Mohamed, former Malaysian Minister of International Trade and Industry and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department in Charge of the Economy. Panel Session 2: Navigating Geopolitical Dynamics in Thailand–Malaysia Economic Cooperation, moderated by Ms. Duangruetai Surasakjinda, Deputy Director of CIMT.

 

The esteemed panel speakers included representatives from relevant Thai and Malaysian public and private sector agencies - the Office of the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT), Mutiara Perlis Sdn Bhd, Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), Northern Gateway Group, the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Thai Industries (F.T.I.), the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturers (FMM), and Bangkok Bank Malaysia.

 

The Economic Forum 2025 was a resounding success, attracting more than 200 participants, including key stakeholders in the transportation and logistics industries, think tanks, and members of the Malaysian local media.