October 17, 2023

     

Malaysia and Thailand to establish task force focused on agriculture

 

Malaysia and Thailand have agreed to set up task forces to boost several sectors including agriculture in both countries, New Straits Times reported last week.

 

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said they were given one month to submit a report to chart the next course of action.

 

"I'm pleased with the pragmatic business-like decision, which is rare in our normal bilateral relation," Anwar said in a press conference. "The one month is for agriculture, tourism and security; of course trade and business, which will include the halal sector."

 

He added that the two countries hoped to increase trade investments, complement each other and benefit immensely from the each others experience.

 

"Hopefully, in one month, we'll meet after the report is submitted to me and (Thailand) Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin as we have a lot of multi-lateral meetings," Anwar commented. "I'm sure, based on his seriousness in developing relations in practical term, we will then compare the notes and execute effectively."

 

Two of the multi-lateral meetings would be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this week and in Japan in December, he said.

 

Meanwhile, Srettha said Thailand hoped to obtain Malaysia's halal certification in its effort to export such food products.

 

He added that Thailand is a food-secured nation, with advanced agricultural technologies.

 

"Hence, we feel that we could increase productivity. Malaysia needs food and has the halal branding that could help Thailand to market the products globally," Srettha said.

- New Straits Times