Perikatan nasional: Perikatan Nasional (PN) today congratulated and commended Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his key role in arranging a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, PN deputy chairman and Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin stated that the coalition welcomed any Malaysian involvement in efforts to strengthen regional stability. He highlighted the importance of Malaysia's contributions, stating, "Whatever role played by the Honourable Tambun member (Anwar), even if described by some as simply that of a host, it remains a contribution that will be recorded in history. I offer my congratulations and appreciation."
Hamzah emphasized the significance of Malaysia being respected as a sovereign nation and a credible balancing power in Southeast Asia. His remarks were made during a debate on the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in the Dewan Rakyat. The ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia was agreed upon on July 28, after a special meeting in Putrajaya chaired by Anwar. Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand's Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai also agreed to convene a General Border Committee Meeting as part of the ceasefire agreement.
Hamzah called for Malaysia to maintain consistency in advocating for global peace and to express firm stances against cruelty and oppression, especially given the current fragile geopolitical environment. He noted that ongoing issues such as the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, the war in Eastern Europe, prolonged conflicts in the Middle East, and tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have direct or indirect impacts on Malaysia.
He asserted that to safeguard Malaysia's diplomatic and strategic interests, the Prime Minister, Foreign Minister, and the entire Cabinet have a responsibility to ensure their statements and actions are composed and measured. Regarding the 19 percent tariff imposed by the United States on Malaysia, Hamzah reiterated PN's stance on trading with dignity while defending sovereignty and national interests. The tariff, effective August 1, represents a reduction from the initially proposed 25 percent.