Malaysia's PM Appoints Former Thai PM Thaksin as ASEAN Adviser

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Thailand's Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, left, walks with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim with the background of Putra Mosque during a welcoming ceremony prior to their meeting in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. (AP Photo/Vincent Thian, Pool)

 

In a bold diplomatic move, Malaysia has appointed Thaksin Shinawatra, Thailand's former prime minister, as an informal adviser, ahead of its chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) next year. The announcement was unveiled during a joint press conference in Putrajaya, featuring both Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter and Thailand's current Prime Minister.

 

"We are pleased to have Thaksin on board as an informal adviser," affirmed Anwar Ibrahim, underscoring the collaborative spirit that Malaysia seeks to foster during its ASEAN stewardship.

 

As Malaysia gears up for its role as ASEAN chair following Laos' tenure this year, the move brings Thaksin back into the regional spotlight. His advisory position will be part of a broader team consisting of members from various ASEAN countries, aimed at optimising regional cooperation and initiatives.

 

Simultaneously, Thailand and Malaysia are exploring joint ventures to uplift their tourism sectors. Both nations plan to synchronise efforts to maximise tourist influx and mutual benefits. Thailand will launch its "Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism Year" in 2024, while Malaysia eyes 2026 for its Visit Malaysia Year.

Notably, one of the key proposals under discussion is the "Six Countries, One Destination" scheme, offering a unified visa system akin to the European Union's Schengen region. This initiative would enable seamless travel across Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Brunei. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar showed a positive inclination towards this scheme, though further discussions are necessary to iron out the specifics.

 

Transport infrastructure also featured prominently in discussions, with plans for a new bridge to link Sungai Kolok in Narathiwat, Thailand, and Rantau Panjang in Malaysia. The project aims at enhancing road and rail connectivity, facilitating economic activities in border areas, and is expected to complete in three years.

 

Another focal point of bilateral talks was the ambition to escalate trade to a volume of THB 1 billion (approximately $30 million) by 2027, reflecting a shared commitment to economic growth and partnership.

 

Regarding regional stability, both countries showed alignment on the Myanmar issue. Thailand expressed support for Malaysia's plan to establish a special ASEAN envoy office on Myanmar upon assuming the chairmanship, signalling a proactive stance on humanitarian and security concerns in the region.

 

In essence, Malaysia’s strategic engagement of Thaksin Shinawatra and its forthcoming ASEAN chairmanship signify a commitment to dynamic regional diplomacy, with potential rippling effects across Southeast Asia, reported Bangkok Post.

 

-- 2024-12-17