Malaysia-Thailand Road Link Set to Be Completed by End-2025

The Malaysia-Thailand road link project connecting Bukit Kayu Hitam and Sadao CIQs is set for completion by the end of the year. (Photo credit: Bernama)

The Malaysia-Thailand road alignment project linking the Bukit Kayu Hitam Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (CIQ) complex with the Sadao CIQ complex in Thailand is scheduled for completion by the end of this year, Bernama reports.

According to the Consul General of Malaysia in Songkhla, Ahmad Fahmi Ahmad Sarkawi, the construction of a new CIQ complex on Thailand’s side had already been completed a few years ago. However, the Consul General noted that the road alignment connecting the new Thai CIQ complex could not be completed earlier due to several technical issues that caused delays.

“When Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took office, he issued a directive and actively pushed for the project’s resumption. After overcoming these technical issues, the project resumed in 2023 and is now scheduled for completion by July or August this year,” Ahmad Fahmi told Bernama.

He also expressed hope that the project would begin operation by the end of 2025, where it promises to bring significant benefits to both nations.

Photo credit: The Star

Meanwhile, regarding the construction of a second bridge connecting the Rantau Panjang CIQ in Kelantan with Sungai Golok in Narathiwat, the Consul General said the project is in its final phase of addressing technical details before construction can begin.

“Building a bridge is far more complex than constructing a road, as it requires meticulous attention to safety and security details. I was informed that the project is currently in its final stage of resolving technical aspects, and once this is completed, construction will begin,” he added.

Once these two big projects are completed, Ahmad Fahmi said they would significantly benefit both countries by enhancing trade volume and boosting the tourism industry. He also mentioned Thailand's plans to upgrade the Thai CIQ facilities in Wang Kelian and Padang Besar, which will further improve border-crossing connectivity between the two neighboring countries.

Source: Bernama