Cambodian Experts Praise Malaysian PM Anwar for Mediating Border Conflict

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia (Sept.27,2025) — Cambodian experts have commended Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim for his role as ASEAN Chair in mediating the ongoing border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand.

During a recent plenary session, experts highlighted Malaysia’s proactive diplomacy and urged Thailand to fully implement the terms of the ceasefire agreement reached between the two countries.

Chheang Vannarith, chairman of the Angkor Social Innovation Park, praised Malaysia’s efforts to de-escalate tensions and facilitate dialogue.

“Malaysia has played an active and critical role in mediating the ceasefire and working hard to monitor its implementation,” Vannarith said. “As responsible members of ASEAN, Cambodia and Thailand must respect ASEAN’s mediating role, especially that of the ASEAN Chair.”

Vannarith also called for the swift formation and deployment of an ASEAN observer team to ensure full and effective implementation of the ceasefire on the ground.

Kin Phea, director-general of the International Relations Institute at the Royal Academy of Cambodia, echoed the praise, citing Anwar’s contributions to peace efforts since the conflict erupted along the Cambodia-Thailand border.

“This important mediation by Anwar clearly demonstrates the ASEAN Chair’s commitment to bringing peace and stability to the region,” Phea said.

He noted that the ceasefire agreement, facilitated through ASEAN and supported by the United States and observed by China, has led to renewed dialogue through the Regional Border Committee and Joint Boundary Commission — two key mechanisms for conflict resolution.

“These meetings have produced meaningful outcomes and represent an important step toward ending the conflict through peaceful means,” Phea said. “Unfortunately, Thailand has not yet implemented the agreement in good faith, nor has it demonstrated a genuine commitment to a peaceful resolution.”

Phea cited domestic political turmoil in Thailand as a major obstacle to progress.
“The political instability in Thailand remains one of the biggest challenges to ending the conflict. Without internal political resolve, peace will be difficult to achieve,” he said.

Meanwhile, Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to regional peace and stability during a phone call Thursday between Anwar and U.S. President Donald Trump, amid rising tensions between Cambodia and Thailand.

Speaking as ASEAN Chair, Anwar emphasized Malaysia’s role in mediating the ceasefire and advancing peace efforts. He also thanked the United States for its support in promoting regional dialogue and stability.

Trump praised Malaysia’s leadership and ASEAN’s resilience, calling the ceasefire a “significant step” toward long-term peace.

The call took place during a courtesy visit by U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, who is attending the 57th ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting in Malaysia.