Anwar reaffirms Malaysia’s role as peace facilitator in Cambodia-Thailand border tensions

Anwar reaffirms Malaysia’s role as peace facilitator in Cambodia-Thailand border tensions

Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Sri Anwar Ibrahim said this evening that he had spoken with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to discuss ongoing peace efforts following the recent violent incident along the Cambodia–Thailand border.

In a social media statement, Mr Anwar said both Hun Manet and Anutin had given “positive feedback” and reaffirmed their commitment to resolving the dispute peacefully, in accordance with the understandings set out in the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, signed last month.

“I reiterated Malaysia’s position that the friendship and ceasefire between both countries must be further strengthened in accordance with the agreement concluded in Kuala Lumpur,” Mr Anwar said. “Malaysia remains ready to continue playing our role as a facilitator in charting this path towards peace.”

He added that both the Cambodian and Thai leaders expressed their appreciation for Malaysia’s stance and recognised the responsibility Malaysia bears “not only as ASEAN Chair, but also as a friend and close neighbour committed to regional peace.”

Mr Anwar’s statement came amid heightened tensions following a border incident earlier this week that left several civilians injured. The situation has raised regional concern and prompted calls for restraint and renewed dialogue.

The Malaysian premier urged both nations to “demonstrate the resolve and courage needed to restore stability along the border,” stressing that lasting peace and the safety of their people must remain the ultimate goal.

Malaysia has played a key role in facilitating dialogue between Cambodia and Thailand since the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord was brokered in late October under ASEAN’s framework for regional cooperation and conflict prevention.

-Khmer Times-