Cabinet Approves New Malaysia Border Crossing

Thailand’s cabinet has approved the opening of the new permanent Sadao border crossing with Malaysia from 11 July 2026, replacing the existing checkpoint as part of efforts to strengthen cross-border trade, tourism and investment. The new crossing, located between border markers 23/9 and 23/10, will operate daily from 5am to 11pm Thailand time under a Ministry of Interior announcement.

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Government spokesperson Ms Ratchada Thanadirek said the decision was approved at the cabinet meeting on 7 July following a proposal from the National Security Council Office. At the same time, the existing permanent border crossing between border markers 22 and 23 will be closed.

The decision comes ahead of the prime minister’s official visit to Malaysia on 9-10 July 2026 at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim. The visit is expected to advance bilateral cooperation and prepare for the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Malaysia in 2027.

The cabinet also instructed relevant agencies to accelerate outstanding infrastructure projects needed to support the new crossing. These include constructing connecting roads to improve traffic capacity on the Thai side, resolving traffic bottlenecks outside the checkpoint, and providing shuttle transport linking the border crossing with surrounding areas.

Authorities have been directed to produce clear implementation plans and timelines for the remaining work. Songkhla province will monitor progress and report developments to the Ministry of Interior before updates are submitted to the chair of the relevant subcommittee and, where appropriate, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

ThaiRath reported that The Ministry of Interior, Songkhla provincial authorities, Sadao Customs and other agencies have also been instructed to provide public information explaining new traffic routes, customs procedures, immigration processing and government measures designed to facilitate trade and tourism. The information campaign is intended to help businesses, private sector operators and residents in the Dan Nok border community prepare for the transition.

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8 July 2026

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