Strategic Partnership for Strengthening Regional Collaboration
The appointment of former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal adviser for Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025 presents a strategic opportunity for strengthening regional collaboration, with promising prospects for bilateral ties and the broader ASEAN community.
Unlocking Mutual Benefits
Assistant Professor Dr Yasmin Sattar of the Faculty of Political Science at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus, believes that the partnership could unlock mutual benefits across multiple sectors, including trade, energy partnerships, and security collaboration. "For Malaysia, the arrangement offers valuable access to seasoned regional perspectives and could potentially open new avenues for addressing critical challenges, particularly in energy security and border management," she said.
Benefits for Thailand
Thailand too stands to benefit substantially from the partnership, with reinforced economic cooperation and strengthened diplomatic channels. "The arrangement could be especially significant for the Deep South region, where it might create fresh opportunities for peace dialogues and conflict resolution," Dr Sattar added.
Global Stage
On the global stage, Dr Sattar opined that the move highlights Malaysia’s commitment to embracing diverse perspectives in international diplomacy, positioning itself as a forward-thinking nation during its ASEAN chairmanship. "The (Thaksin) appointment represents a bold strategic move and appears crafted to strengthen Malaysia’s position across different spheres while leveraging the experience of regional figures, particularly during Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship," she noted.
Regional Cooperation
Within the ASEAN region, Dr Sattar said the move reinforces Malaysia’s leadership role and could potentially enhance coordination among member states. While the advisory role offers several promising avenues for regional conflict resolution, Dr Sattar said expectations should remain realistic to ensure tangible outcomes.
Appointment Details
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced the appointment of Thaksin as his unofficial adviser for chairing ASEAN in 2025 during a joint press conference with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin’s daughter, who visited Malaysia on December 16 in Putrajaya.
Expert Insights
Associate Professor Dr Yuttaporn Issarachai from the School of Political Science at Sukhothai Thammathirat University views that Thaksin’s appointment could strengthen bilateral ties and benefit both countries, particularly in addressing shared challenges such as security issues along the Thai-Malaysian border. Dr Yuttaporn pointed out that Thaksin’s personal relationships with ASEAN leaders, including those from Malaysia, Brunei, Cambodia, and even Myanmar, give him a distinct advantage in fostering regional cooperation.
Background on ASEAN Chairmanship
Malaysia officially assumed the ASEAN Chairmanship on January 1, 2025. Malaysia has previously chaired ASEAN in 1977, 1997, 2005, and 2015.
Conclusion
The appointment of Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal adviser for Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025 presents a significant opportunity for strengthening regional collaboration and cooperation. With his extensive experience and connections, Thaksin is well-positioned to facilitate dialogue and cooperation among ASEAN member states, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful and prosperous region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of Thaksin’s appointment as an informal adviser for Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship in 2025?
A: The appointment presents a strategic opportunity for strengthening regional collaboration, with promising prospects for bilateral ties and the broader ASEAN community.
Q: What are the expected benefits of the partnership for Malaysia and Thailand?
A: The partnership is expected to unlock mutual benefits across multiple sectors, including trade, energy partnerships, and security collaboration, as well as reinforced economic cooperation and strengthened diplomatic channels.
Q: What is the significance of Thaksin’s personal relationships with ASEAN leaders?
A: Thaksin’s personal relationships with ASEAN leaders give him a distinct advantage in fostering regional cooperation, particularly in addressing shared challenges such as security issues along the Thai-Malaysian border.