ALOR STAR: The Kedah Malay Chambers of Commerce (DPMM) is urging the government to hold talks with the Thailand government to enable 24-hour operations at border checkpoints, aiming to enhance traffic flow and stimulate trade activities.
DPMM Kedah chapter president Datuk Mohd Zayad Md Ismail proposed bilateral talks between the two governments to implement the move, particularly during major festive seasons, in response to the recent congestion.
He stressed that establishing 24-hour operations, particularly at Bukit Kayu Hitam, would boost trade activities and foster the growth of the logistics industry in Kedah.
"The congestion at Malaysia-Thailand border checkpoints has reached a critical point, significantly hindering the productivity of various stakeholders.
"Prolonged traffic not only disrupts productivity and causes emotional stress but also adversely affects business transactions and operations.
"I believe immediate action is necessary to alleviate traffic congestion at Immigration, Customs, Quarantine, and Security (ICQS) complexes, to facilitate tourist movements between both countries, and bolster connectivity, investment, and traffic flow through legitimate routes," he said in a statement today.
Zayad acknowledged that such a move would necessitate approval from the neighboring country and should prioritise facilities, comfort, and above all, safety.
However, he said that given the persistent congestion, especially during festive periods, coupled with sudden spikes in Malaysian travel to Thailand, it is high time for a comprehensive 24-hour operation.
"In 2019, the border checkpoint operated on a 24-hour basis but only as a trial for several months, focusing on heavy vehicles and cargo movements.
"The time is right for this step to provide unrestricted time for trade activities between Malaysia and Thailand, boosting the logistics industry in Kedah and Perlis while enhancing bilateral trade relations," he added.
He said the move would also strengthen Malaysia-Thailand diplomatic relations with various new projects generating income for both countries.
"The 24-hour operation could also meet the future development growth of both nations.
"Moreover, bilateral trade relations may become more proactive, creating job opportunities for Malaysians and Thais," he added.
The traffic flow at the Bukit Kayu Hitam border checkpoint experienced a sharp increase in the number of vehicles since Hari Raya Aidilfitri festivities started, causing congestion.
Yesterday, the State Immigration Department, in a Facebook post, said that a total of six inspection counters for entry into Malaysia have been opened to facilitate the flow of traffic.
It is understood that the increased traffic flow was due to Malaysians going for holidays in Thailand during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri holidays and due to Songkran celebrations in Thailand.
Meanwhile, Zayad also urged the federal government to subsidise ferry fares to Langkawi during major festive seasons.
He proposed that ferry fare subsidies be provided for three days up to a week during festivities.
"In addition to allowing more Langkawi residents to return home for festivities and easing their financial burden, this step would also promote tourism activities to Langkawi during holiday seasons," he added.
