Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim clarifies Malaysia’s position as a mediator only, with resolution dependent on Thailand and Cambodia’s direct agreement.
PUTRAJAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that Malaysia’s position is solely to help mediate and ensure a cessation of hostilities in the Thailand-Cambodia border issue.
He emphasised that the final decision rests entirely with the two neighbouring countries. “We (Malaysia) don’t decide,” Anwar said during a special press conference.
He described recent criticism of Malaysia’s role as based on “pure ignorance and prejudice.”
Anwar outlined that all diplomatic efforts, including the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords and meetings coordinated by Malaysia’s foreign minister, were conducted with the full agreement of both parties.
He noted his consistently “very reserved” and “cautious” approach in discussions with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet.
Malaysia’s Chief of Armed Forces and Foreign Minister have also maintained contact with their counterparts in both nations.
Anwar welcomed the recent agreement by Cambodia and Thailand to consolidate their ceasefire through direct talks hosted in China.
He said the swift move to structured discussions reflects a determination to prevent relapse and stabilise the situation durably.
“I am grateful for China’s role in hosting these discussions and in providing a setting in which both sides were able to focus on practical steps to reduce risk and rebuild confidence,” he added.
The Prime Minister also recognised the vital role of United States President Donald J. Trump in helping broker the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accords.
“That involvement contributed to creating the political space in which the parties were able to step back from confrontation and commit to restraint,” Anwar said.
