Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar pointed out that Malaysia only plays a coordinating role in the peace talks between Thailand and Cambodia, without setting any conditions, and the decision-making power lies with the two countries.
He emphasized that Malaysia has never forced any party in the peace process, instead taking on the role of a coordinator to ensure the smooth conduct of negotiations.
“We are only responsible for coordination. I still remember when I called the Prime Ministers of both countries (Thailand and Cambodia), I stressed that the decision is in their hands. Malaysia is just helping to coordinate and urging for peace.”
“They are the ones who decide on the concrete content; it is not us setting the conditions. We did not lay down the terms for negotiations. Malaysia is only helping coordinate, and it is up to both parties to reach a consensus.”
He said this today (11th) during the Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat, in response to an additional question from PAS Arau Member of Parliament Shahidan.
Shahidan asked how Malaysia faces the pressure brought by criticisms against the peace talks from certain quarters.
Anwar: Criticism of Malaysia’s Role Should Be Seen as Part of Democratic Practice
Anwar said that criticism of the role played by the country should be seen as part of the democratic process, as there are internal differences of opinion in every nation.
“In Malaysia, too, there are (agreements we have made) that some disagree with; it is the same in Thailand, but I consult with the Prime Ministers and governments.”
“If a retired general (Retired Thai Major General Rangsi) raises the issue, that is his right.”
Anwar stressed that despite criticism from some, the countries involved still have firm confidence in Malaysia’s role in regional peace efforts.
“We know Malaysia’s success may also invite envy. Some people do not understand why a small country like Malaysia draws the world’s attention.”
“The issue currently raised concerns allegations of landmine explosions involving the Cambodian military in the area. Because the problem is not yet resolved, we have postponed the agreement, but Thailand has not questioned our role.”
Anwar pointed out that the Thai Prime Minister has never questioned Malaysia’s responsibility and, conversely, has asked us to urge Cambodia to fully comply with the peace talks.
In light of this, he said he had instructed the Commander of the Armed Forces to obtain a report and to re-negotiate to help resolve the matter.
He emphasized that Malaysia remains committed to ensuring regional peace because tensions in this region would also affect the country, especially as we hold the ASEAN rotating chair until December.
“In my view, I pray this can be resolved. We have no reason to hope the dispute continues just to show the Malaysian Prime Minister has failed. Such an attitude is very bad.”
“I want peace. If they are in conflict, it will affect us. As long as Malaysia remains the ASEAN rotating chair until December, both parties are still engaging with us.”
On October 26, Thailand and Cambodia signed the "Kuala Lumpur Peace Agreement" Joint Statement, marking an important step for both countries to officially move toward ending hostilities and restoring peace in the disputed border areas.
On that day, Anwar and U.S. President Trump jointly witnessed the signing ceremony.
For a long time, Thailand and Cambodia have had disputes over their 817 km shared border, and on July 24 this year, a military clash erupted at the border.
On July 28, Anwar chaired a Thailand-Cambodia special meeting at the Prime Minister’s official residence in Putrajaya, attended by then-acting Thai Prime Minister Phuttam and Hun Manet, where both agreed to an immediate ceasefire, successfully easing border tensions.