PM Anwar directs Armed Forces to review Cambodia-Thailand peace deal implementation amid landmine incidents delaying border agreement
PETALING JAYA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has directed the Armed Forces chief to obtain a report and resume discussions to help resolve ongoing issues between Cambodia and Thailand.
During the Minister’s Question Time in Parliament yesterday, he stressed that Malaysia’s role is to coordinate and facilitate peace, with both nations determining their own parameters.
“I only help align and request reconciliation. The parties themselves agree, and if there is any violation, then a problem arises,” he said, emphasising Malaysia’s position as a mediator rather than a party setting the terms.
Anwar said Malaysia continues to bear responsibility as the Asean chair until the end of the year.
“I pray for peace. Wishing for conflict just to prove Malaysia’s prime minister has failed is a harmful attitude. If they fight, it affects us too. And as the Asean chair, I remain in contact with both sides,” he said.
The Cambodia–Thailand peace agreement, known as the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, was signed in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 26 and witnessed by Anwar and US President Donald Trump.
Both nations had earlier agreed to an unconditional ceasefire on July 28, following weeks of border tension and a trilateral meeting hosted by Malaysia.
Anwar said he had negotiated directly with both prime ministers and their governments, adding that even those who have never held elected office have the right to express their opinions.
He said former Thai army major-general (Rtd) Rangsi Kitiyansap is entitled to his view on the Thailand–Cambodia peace deal.
“And if a former general who has never won an election raises an objection, that is fine and that is his right,” he said.
The current disagreement stems from landmine explosions in areas believed to involve Cambodian troops, which have temporarily delayed full implementation of the accord.
“No attacks have occurred, and Malaysian military commanders are now negotiating in accordance with the agreement to ensure border withdrawal and address the incidents caused by the landmines,” Anwar said.
The recent death of another individual due to a landmine prompted questions about whether the agreement had been violated, but Anwar emphasised that Malaysia’s role is to coordinate and ensure compliance.
“Cambodia has been urged to fully adhere to the terms, after which the 18 detainees under Thailand’s custody are to be released according to the peace agreement.”
