Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi today received a courtesy call from Thailand Deputy Defence Minister General Udomdej Sitabutr.

The call, which took place at the Malaysian Border Security Agency (Aksem) Complex here, was aimed at discussing the proposed extension of the border checkpoints operations at the Bukit Kayu Hitam and Padang Besar Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) complexes from the current 18 hours to 24 hours.

Speaking to the media after visiting the integrated ICQS complex project site here, Ahmad Zahid said:

"The discussion with Thailand is aimed at deliberating over details and to find a suitable date for the implementation of the proposed extension of the border checkpoints operations."

The proposal to extend the operation hour was made by the Cabinet on Feb 15 to ensure Malaysia's aspiration to become the integrated logistic hub and entry point to Southeast Asia, would become a reality. -- Bernama