Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysia-Thailand rail connectivity to the Asian continent, particularly China, holds significant potential for enhancing supply chain security and safety, according to Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. He emphasized that developing rail infrastructure is crucial from a regional standpoint, aiming to link ASEAN member countries through a strategic railway network.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Loke highlighted that regional rail connectivity is essential in addressing the uncertainties and disruptions currently affecting global supply chains. He made these remarks during the monthly assembly of the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the Raikan Kasih MADANI 2025 event.
Loke explained that Malaysia’s strategic location along the Straits of Malacca and the South China Sea provides an advantage as a link between western and eastern countries. Therefore, the region should leverage existing railways to enhance connectivity.
“We hope that at the ASEAN level there is a consensus so that we can improve this connectivity. When we have improved this connectivity, of course, other countries will also be interested, especially landlocked countries,” Loke stated.
To advance the Pan-Asian Railway Network, Loke expressed Malaysia’s commitment to fostering a supportive policy with Thailand for rail sector development. He plans to meet with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Transport, Suriya Juangroongruangkit, to address issues such as restrictions on rail cargo services crossing borders.
Loke noted existing obstacles, such as restrictions on certain goods transported by rail between Malaysia and Thailand, need to be resolved to enhance trade within ASEAN. He stressed the importance of reducing trade dependence on a single market, particularly as the United States increases tariffs, heightening global economic tensions.
As Malaysia prepares to host the upcoming ASEAN summit, Loke emphasized the need to tackle current challenges and improve trade competitiveness within the region. He underscored the Ministry of Transport’s role in facilitating trade by implementing policy instruments that reduce democratic red tape and restrictions within ASEAN.
The cooperation between Malaysia and Thailand is established through Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB) and the State Railway of Thailand (SRT), with a focus on government-to-government (G2G) collaboration. The Pan-Asian Railway Network, also known as the Kunming-Singapore Railway Network, is a mega project connecting Southeast Asia with China and Europe, with Malaysia playing a significant role through the East Coast Rail Link (ECRL) Project.