Mohamad Hasan Calls On Malaysians Abroad To Work Closely With Embassies

By Kenny Teng

BANGKOK, Jan 2 (Bernama) -- Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan on Friday reminded Malaysians abroad to work closely with Malaysian embassies in preserving the country’s image on the global stage.

He said the efforts of Malaysian missions overseas, together with the conduct and representation of Malaysians abroad, are crucial in maintaining the nation’s good reputation and strengthening bilateral cooperation.

“You, as Malaysians in Thailand, play an important role as bridges between Malaysia and Thailand, strengthening people-to-people ties and contributing positively to Malaysia’s image abroad.

“I encourage you to continue working closely with the Embassy and supporting its efforts,” he said at the reopening of the Embassy of Malaysia complex on Sathorn Road here.

Earlier, Mohamad officiated the reopening with a ribbon-cutting and tree-planting ceremony, accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Raja Salbiah Tengku Nujumudin and Malaysia's Ambassador to Thailand Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah.

The foreign minister said that a well-equipped diplomatic mission is essential for effective diplomacy and quality service delivery, particularly in a country as close and important to Malaysia as Thailand, highlighting the two nations’ long-standing relationship rooted in geography, history and strong people-to-people ties.

“I would like to commend the ambassador, officials and supporting staff of the Embassy for their dedication and professionalism throughout this process. Your efforts, often carried out quietly behind the scenes, are deeply appreciated,” he said.

Mohamad said the refurbished chancery reflects not only physical improvements but also the Foreign Ministry’s continued commitment to ensuring that Malaysia’s diplomatic missions abroad operate in a modern, efficient and conducive working environment.

“You are the frontline representatives of Malaysia, entrusted with safeguarding our national interests, strengthening bilateral cooperation and assisting Malaysians abroad,” he said, adding that the Embassy serves as an important platform for advancing bilateral ties and fostering closer understanding between the two countries.

In 2024, Thailand was Malaysia’s seventh-largest trading partner globally and the third-largest among ASEAN member states, with total trade amounting to RM114.56 billion (US$25.03 billion).

From January to October 2025, bilateral trade between the two countries reached RM98.19 billion (US$22.79 billion), compared with RM95.52 billion (US$20.79 billion) during the same period in 2024.

-- BERNAMA