Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's role in the peace negotiations between Thailand and Cambodia is limited to coordination and facilitation, without imposing any conditions, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Anwar stressed that Malaysia has never forced either side during the peace process, but merely acted as a mediator to ensure constructive dialogue.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anwar stated, 'We only coordinated. I still remember when I brought both prime ministers (of Thailand and Cambodia) together, I told them - You decide the terms; I'm only here to help coordinate and promote peace,' he said during the Minister's Question Time in Dewan Rakyat today. He emphasized that the parameters of the peace talks were entirely determined by Thailand and Cambodia, not by Malaysia.
Anwar reiterated, 'They set the parameters, not us. We didn't impose any conditions for peace. Both countries reached their own agreement,' he said in reply to Datuk Seri Dr Shahidan Kassim (PN-Arau), who asked about Malaysia's handling of criticism regarding the peace negotiations. He mentioned that criticism of Malaysia's role should be viewed within the context of democratic practice, as differing opinions exist in every country.
'In Malaysia, we sign agreements, and some may still disagree. The same happens in Thailand. I negotiate with the prime minister and the government there. If a former Thai general, Rangsi Kitiyansap, raises objections, it's okay, that's his right,' Anwar added. The Prime Minister emphasized that despite criticism, both Thailand and Cambodia remain confident in Malaysia's neutral role in promoting regional peace.
Anwar explained that current tensions stemmed from a recent landmine explosion in an area allegedly involving Cambodian forces, prompting Thailand to delay approval of certain agreements pending clarification, but without jeopardizing the peace process. 'The Thai Prime Minister never questioned our role. He only asked that Cambodia fully comply with the peace terms,' Anwar said.
To address the situation, Anwar has directed the Malaysian Chief of Defence Forces to obtain a report and resume discussions to help resolve the issue. He reiterated Malaysia's commitment to ensuring regional peace, noting that tensions in the region would also affect the country, especially as Malaysia holds the ASEAN Chairmanship until the end of this 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 ASEAN chair, I remain in contact with both sides,' he stated. On Oct 26, Cambodia and Thailand signed a peace agreement in Kuala Lumpur, witnessed by Anwar and United States 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 Anwar.