Malaysia, Brunei deepen cooperation in border management, education, disaster response

Malaysia and Brunei Darussalam have agreed to deepen cooperation in border management, immigration, education, disaster management, trade, and investment. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim discussed long-standing border issues with Brunei's Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah, reaching an initial understanding to maintain areas belonging to both countries.

About 50% of border-related processes have been resolved, with the remaining matters to be examined by technical committees. Anwar stated that both sides would respect Malaysia's rights and interests based on law and boundaries, and similarly for Brunei. The foreign ministers initially aimed for a resolution by early next year, but now believe the matter could be settled by year-end, making the following steps merely formal.

Malaysia and Brunei also agreed to facilitate people movement between the countries, reducing repeated inspections at checkpoints. The haze issue will be addressed through the Asean mechanisms, with the relevant ministries coordinating follow-up action. Malaysia's Universiti Brunei Darussalam will recognize its qualifications through the Malaysian Qualifications Agency, allowing Malaysian students to pursue studies in Brunei. Disaster management cooperation will be expanded via an MoU on SAR operations.