Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Friday expressed hope that a newly opened road linking Malaysia and Thailand would strengthen cross-border connectivity, facilitate trade and accelerate economic growth for both countries.

Speaking at the inauguration of the road connecting the Bukit Kayu Hitam Customs, Immigration, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex in Malaysia with Thailand’s Sadao Customs Checkpoint, Anwar said the new infrastructure would improve the movement of people and goods while deepening bilateral economic cooperation.

He said Malaysia and Thailand still have significant room to expand bilateral trade and should fully leverage improved transport links to unlock greater economic opportunities for businesses and communities on both sides of the border.

The Malaysian premier also stressed the importance of enhancing border infrastructure and streamlining customs and immigration procedures to facilitate smoother cross-border movement and support regional development.

The road project forms part of broader efforts by the two neighbouring countries to strengthen economic ties, improve border connectivity and move towards their shared target of increasing bilateral trade to US$30 billion by 2027.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul was in Malaysia on a two-day official visit, during which the two leaders also discussed border development, trade cooperation, security issues and the establishment of special economic zones along the Malaysia-Thailand border.