Analysts say the KL Peace Accord strengthens Malaysia’s reputation as trusted mediator and enhances ASEAN’s conflict resolution capabilities.
KUALA LUMPUR: The successful KL Peace Accord between Thailand and Cambodia represents more than just reconciliation between the two neighbouring nations.
Political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian stated that this achievement significantly enhances Malaysia’s standing as a credible regional and international mediator.
He emphasised that the peace accord demonstrates ASEAN’s capacity to function as an actual conflict resolver rather than merely an observer.
Malaysia has effectively showcased its diplomatic credibility by proving that Southeast Asian conflicts can be resolved regionally without external intervention.
The peace agreement was formally signed in Kuala Lumpur on October 26 with ASEAN leaders and a United States representative witnessing the ceremony.
This agreement commits both Thailand and Cambodia to cease all border attacks while withdrawing heavy weaponry from contested areas.
ALSO READ: Anwar praised for historic KL peace accord at ASEAN summit
An ASEAN-led monitoring team will be established to ensure both parties adhere to the ceasefire terms.
Sivamurugan highlighted that this success aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025.
He noted that Malaysia’s credibility as a neutral nation combined with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s inclusive leadership enabled it to gain conflicting parties’ trust.
This diplomatic achievement further strengthens ASEAN’s reputation as a mature bloc capable of managing its own internal conflicts.
Malaysia’s regional security role has been significantly elevated through this successful mediation effort.
ASEAN has demonstrated that regional peace and stability can be effectively maintained through well-structured regional mechanisms.
Geostrategist Prof Dr Azmi Hassan from the Nusantara Strategic Research Academy revealed an interesting origin of the accord’s name.
The term “KL Peace Accord” was actually coined by the administration of United States President Donald Trump.
President Trump specifically commended Malaysia’s role as a neutral mediator in facilitating the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire talks.
Azmi explained that Washington’s confidence in Malaysia provides significant diplomatic advantages for future international engagements.
Malaysia is now perceived as a principled actor driven by humanitarian values rather than solely religious considerations.
This recognition as an honest and transparent mediator opens doors for Malaysia to host negotiations on various international conflicts.
The geostrategist described this as a substantial diplomatic achievement showcasing the Prime Minister’s acumen and Malaysia’s capacity to earn global trust. – Bernama
READ MORE: Historic KL Peace Accord anchors ASEAN Summit, strengthening regional unity
