Malaysia’s defence chief says peace process between Thailand and Cambodia should continue despite border landmine incident and suspension of agreements
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the peace process between Thailand and Cambodia despite a recent border incident.
Chief of Defence Force Gen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar said Malaysia’s stance is to ensure the peace process remains uninterrupted for regional stability.
He stated the process should continue without disruption as any delay could risk a return to previous hostilities.
“We understand there will be a ‘cooling period’ to allow both sides to assess the current situation,” he said today.
Mohd Nizam expressed hope the matter could be resolved quickly with the ASEAN Observer Team currently attending Thailand’s National Security Council meeting.
He noted that although the issue is bilateral between Thailand and Cambodia, ASEAN members share collective responsibility to assist each other.
Currently, the AOT team is not permitted to enter the incident area located about 40 kilometres from the border.
“If a crisis similar to the previous one recurs, both AOT teams will be redeployed to Phnom Penh and Bangkok,” he explained.
Most plans under the peace agreement have already been implemented including demining operations and related measures.
Mohd Nizam said if the process is temporarily suspended, the AOT will reposition and continue discussions with both sides.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stated Malaysia acts only as a coordinator in the peace talks without imposing conditions.
He serves as a facilitator to ensure negotiations proceed smoothly between the neighbouring countries.
Yesterday, international media reported Thailand’s Armed Forces Chief suspended all agreements with Cambodia after a border landmine explosion.
Four Thai soldiers were injured when a PMN-2 type landmine exploded during a patrol in Sisaket province.
One soldier lost his right leg in the incident that heightened tensions after clashes in July.
The Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord was signed by both prime ministers during the 47th ASEAN Summit on Oct 26.
Anwar hosted a meeting in Putrajaya on July 28 that eased border tensions through a ceasefire agreement.
The ceasefire prevented further military escalation and ensured the safety of thousands of civilians. – Bernama
