Implications of One Belt One Road for Malaysian connectivity to international trade routes

This paper discusses the implication of OBOR initiatives on Malaysia’s development of transport infrastructure. Currently, there are several projects being undertaken that are linked to the OBOR strategy, such as the industrial park and maritime industry park, port alliances, port expansions, and electrified doubled tracking railways. These projects have created potential to promote economic development on the east coast of Malaysia and southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, boost trade and investment for seaports, promote maritime tourism, increase demand for refuge seaports in Malacca Straits, and enhance freight for utilizing dry ports. The introduction of high speed rail and rapid transit systems improve the development of passenger transportation between Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore. These OBOR initiatives will enhance connectivity between Malaysia and other South East Asia countries offering opportunities for trade and development.