Kuala lumpur: The withdrawal of heavy weapons by Thailand and Cambodia from border areas, as well as the removal and destruction of explosives or landmines are among the key elements in the ceasefire agreement between the two countries which is expected to be finalised at the 47th ASEAN Summit.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said the deal will also include the establishment of an ASEAN Observer Team to monitor the situation in the conflict-affected border region.

The initiative aims to preserve the ceasefire that has been in place since July, following the agreement by both the Cambodian and Thai prime ministers at the time to halt hostilities. Mohamad stated that there have been minor breaches since July 28, involving slingshots rather than firearms, and emphasized the importance of ensuring no further violations of the ceasefire.

Mohamad expressed ASEAN's hope that the ceasefire will hold and urged both countries to continue dialogue and work towards a peaceful resolution of their border demarcation issue. He reiterated that Malaysia will not interfere in border matters, adhering to the ASEAN Charter's principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of member states.

In his address, the Foreign Minister extended condolences to the Thai royal family and the people of Thailand on the passing of Queen Mother Sirikit Kitiyakara. When asked about the signing of the ceasefire agreement by Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, Mohamad noted that the timing of his arrival is contingent on the arrival of United States President Donald Trump.

Mohamad outlined the schedule for the 47th ASEAN Summit, which includes the opening ceremony, plenary and retreat sessions, and special ASEAN meetings with the United States, Japan, India, and the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC) meeting. Adjustments to the schedule were necessary due to the arrival and departure plans of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia stretches 817 kilometers and the latest flare-up on July 24 led to a military confrontation. The ceasefire, brokered by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in a meeting with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand's Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, has been seen as a significant ASEAN achievement, preventing conflict escalation and ensuring civilian safety.

Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair for 2025 under the theme 'Inclusivity and Sustainability', will host the regional summit from tomorrow until October 28 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.