KUALA LUMPUR, April 10 – Malaysia’s government has signaled its willingness to entertain the extension of a US$10 billion China-led rail project to its border with Thailand, aiming to bolster economic cooperation between the neighboring Southeast Asian nations. The ambitious 665-kilometer railway, part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, aims to connect the east and west coasts of peninsular Malaysia by 2026, with plans now being discussed to potentially extend it further.
Transport Minister Anthony Loke emphasized the potential economic benefits of modernizing and enhancing railway connectivity between Malaysia and Thailand, envisioning accelerated movement of cargo and passengers as a catalyst for economic growth. While details remain scarce, the proposal reflects Malaysia’s commitment to fostering regional integration and exploring opportunities for collaboration with neighboring countries.
Thailand, which is also investing in major infrastructure projects like a land bridge in the country’s south, holds significant potential for synergistic partnerships with Malaysia in transport and national development. As the railway project progresses and discussions unfold, both nations aim to leverage closer cooperation for mutual long-term benefit.
