Kuala lumpur: The new road alignment connecting the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex in Kedah, Malaysia, and the Sadao Customs, Immigration and Quarantine (CIQ) Complex in Thailand is expected to significantly boost economic growth in both regions, as announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the project marks a pivotal development in Malaysia-Thailand relations, enhancing cross-border connectivity, trade activities, and economic cooperation. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the project's importance during its launch, highlighting its potential to drive economic growth for the welfare of people in northern Malaysia and southern Thailand.

Anwar, alongside Thailand's Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, officiated the launch ceremony. The initiative aims to establish a special economic border zone that spans northern Malaysia and southern Thailand, providing new development opportunities for states such as Perlis, Kedah, Kelantan, Perak, and Penang.

The Prime Minister also discussed the commitment of Malaysia and Thailand to expedite the resolution of outstanding issues related to customs, immigration, fisheries, and trade, which would facilitate business operations and improve livelihoods in both countries. Anwar expressed confidence that the strengthened cooperation would aid in achieving the bilateral trade target of USD30 billion by 2027.

The event underscored both countries' dedication to resolving long-standing issues, with Anwar acknowledging the political commitment required for such progress. He appreciated Prime Minister Anutin's visit to the border area, reflecting the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of communities beyond major urban centers.

Earlier, Anwar and his wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, welcomed Anutin Charnvirakul and his spouse, Thananon Charnvirakul, to the ceremony at the Malaysia-Thailand border, marking Anutin's two-day official visit to Malaysia.