Bangkok: The Cabinet has approved the opening of a new permanent border crossing at Sadao, enhancing cross-border logistics between Thailand and Malaysia to bolster trade, investment, and tourism. This development was confirmed during a Cabinet meeting on July 7, 2026, with the new crossing set to become operational on July 11, 2026.

According to Thai News Agency, Ms. Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, announced the Prime Minister's official visit to Malaysia from July 9-10, 2026. This visit, at the invitation of Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim, is key to advancing cooperative efforts between the two nations, especially with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations approaching in 2027.

The Cabinet has greenlit the proposal from the National Security Council Office to open the new Sadao border crossing at markers 23/9 - 23/10, while closing the old crossing at markers 22 - 23. The new crossing will operate daily from 05:00 to 23:00 according to Thailand's local time. Efforts will be expedited to complete infrastructure tasks, including road construction to improve traffic flow on the Thai side and alleviate congestion at checkpoints. The Songkhla Provincial Administration will oversee progress and report to the Ministry of Interior.

The Ministry of Interior, in collaboration with Songkhla Province, Sadao Customs House, and relevant agencies, is tasked with publicizing information on vehicle routes, customs procedures, and immigration checkpoints to facilitate trade and tourism for the private sector and local residents.

In conjunction with this development, the Cabinet also approved a draft joint statement by the Prime Ministers of Thailand and Malaysia. This statement, proposed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasizes cooperation in border management, international connectivity, security, economic partnership in food and energy security, social and cultural collaboration, and ASEAN framework cooperation.