On 15 August 2025, the Royal Thai Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, in collaboration with the Institute of Strategic & International Studies (ISIS) Malaysia, organised the inaugural Thailand–Malaysia Strategic Dialogue under the theme “Honouring the Past, Engaging the Present and Shaping a Prosperous Future” at the ISIS Malaysia Auditorium, Kuala Lumpur. The Dialogue was opened by Datuk Prof. Dr. Mohd Faiz Abdullah, Chairman of ISIS Malaysia, followed by a Keynote Address by H.E. Ms. Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia. This event was held in the lead-up to the 68th anniversary of Thailand–Malaysia diplomatic relations on 31 August 2025, paving the way towards the commemoration of the 70th anniversary in 2027.

 

The Dialogue was well attended by over 100 participants, including members of the diplomatic corps, government and business representatives, policy experts, think tanks, and Malaysian media. Distinguished participants included YM Raja Dato’ Nushirwan bin Zainal Abidin, Director-General of the National Security Council (NSC), YBhg. Dato’ Sri Mustapa bin Mohamed, former Cabinet Minister, and Minister Lieutenant-General Datuk Johnny Lim Eng Seng, Commandant of the National Resilience College (NRC).

 

In his opening remarks, Datuk Prof. Dr. Mohd Faiz Abdullah underscored the enduring friendship between Thailand and Malaysia that must be nurtured with mutual respect. He highlighted the importance of maintaining peace and stability along the shared border, fostering economic opportunities for border communities, and strengthening cooperation on regional issues such as sustainable energy and the situation in Myanmar. He also stressed the need for strategic foresight to navigate great power competition, reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness, as ASEAN Chair in 2025, to work closely with Thailand to enhance ASEAN unity.

 

Ambassador Lada emphasized that Thailand–Malaysia relations are deeply rooted in trade, culture, and longstanding people-to-people exchanges, supported by strong bilateral cooperation mechanisms. She highlighted the frequent high-level interactions, both formal and informal, over the past two years that have driven tangible progress in cross-border infrastructure projects, benefiting people

on both sides. The Ambassador also recognized Malaysia’s leadership as ASEAN Chair in 2025, including its constructive role in facilitating dialogue on the Thailand–Cambodia situation, while noting global challenges in geopolitics, economy, and technology. She reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to advancing bilateral relations and supporting Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship.

 

In the evening, the Ambassador hosted a dinner in honour of the ISIS Malaysia Chairman, his team, and those concerned at the Thai Ambassador’s Residence to express appreciation for their close cooperation with the Embassy, which continues to strengthen the foundation of sustainable Thailand–Malaysia relations.