Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) today joined a diplomatic military delegation invited to observe the hotspot area along the Cambodia-Thailand border, which has reportedly been experiencing cross-border tensions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MAF, in a social media post, stated that the visit to the Anlong Veng-Phnom An Ma (Chong An Ma) zone underscores Malaysia’s commitment to regional defence diplomacy and its active role in fostering confidence and transparency among ASEAN nations. The visit also included representatives from several major world powers and neighboring countries, including the United States, China, Japan, Russia, South Korea, Australia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar.
Cambodian local media reports indicated that the Cambodian government initiated the invitation of foreign military delegations as a demonstration of openness and confidence in its claim that no border violation has occurred. The statement from the MAF highlighted that
Cambodia has emphasized that all actions taken were to ensure the security of its territory.
The Chong An Ma zone has been a historical point of contention between Cambodia and Thailand, especially during incidents involving the Preah Vihear Temple. In this context, Cambodia’s hosting of the observation visit is perceived as part of an information warfare strategy and military diplomacy to create a narrative favorable to them at the international level.
The MAF noted that, so far, Thai authorities have not issued any official response regarding the move, and like other invited nations, Malaysia has yet to release any public statement on the findings from the visit.
In a related development, Malaysia’s Chief of Defence Forces General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar is scheduled to make official visits to Thailand and Cambodia as part of regional diplomatic efforts. This visit follows the announcement of an immediate ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia, which was achieved through a Special Meeting organized by
Malaysia with both neighboring countries.