Thai, Malaysian PMs open new Sadao border checkpoint

SONGKHLA, July 10 (TNA) - The prime ministers of Thailand and Malaysia on Friday officially opened the new Sadao border checkpoint in Songkhla province, a move aimed at enhancing screening capabilities for people and goods between the two nations.

Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim presided over the opening ceremony of the road connecting the new Sadao customs checkpoint with the Bukit Kayu Hitam checkpoint, marking the official opening of both sides. Following the ceremony, the Malaysian prime minister led the Thai delegation across the border into Malaysia for a hosted lunch.

Located on Kanjanavanich Road in the Sadao district of Songkhla, the new customs checkpoint is situated within the Songkhla Special Economic Zone. The project spans a total area of approximately 596 rai (235 acres). 

Construction began on May 31, 2016, with a budget of 1.53 billion baht ($45 million), and the main buildings were completed on September 28, 2019. The facility includes office buildings, cargo clearance zones, passenger and vehicle terminals, and residential quarters.

The facility features 11 vehicle inspection lanes and 14 immigration lanes per side. The cargo inspection zone can accommodate trucks across eight lanes per direction. The checkpoint is equipped with advanced inspection technology, including two Fast Scan X-ray systems and two truck-weighing systems per side.

The opening of the new Sadao permanent border crossing is expected to improve border management efficiency between Thailand and Malaysia, increase screening capabilities for individuals and cargo, reduce illegal smuggling, and support international trade and investment. The checkpoint operates daily from 05:00 to 23:00. -819 (TNA)