Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s decision to appoint former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra as an informal advisor during Malaysia’s Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025 has sparked both admiration and controversy. While some hail the move as a strategic masterstroke, critics question the wisdom of relying on a polarizing figure with a complex legal and political history.
Strategic Vision for ASEAN Leadership
Anwar announced Thaksin’s appointment during a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra, Thaksin's daughter, at Putrajaya on December 16, 2024. This decision is part of a broader initiative to assemble a team of former influencial ASEAN leaders to provide guidance effectively on regional issues. Notable speculative names reportedly include Singapore’s former Foreign Minister George Yeo and Indonesia’s former Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.
Thaksin, with his extensive experience in governance and robust diplomatic networks spanning the United States and China, is seen by supporters as a valuable asset. His insights into transnational challenges such as human trafficking, cybercrime, and economic integration could bolster ASEAN's capabilities in addressing shared regional problems.
Foreign Minister Dato' Seri Mohamad Hasan emphasized Thaksin's unique position as a bridge between major powers, stating, “Thaksin’s influence and connections are crucial for fostering stronger ties within ASEAN and beyond.”
Analysts suggest his familiarity with Myanmar’s political landscape could prove invaluable in advancing ASEAN’s stalled Five-Point Consensus on the Myanmar crisis.
A Controversial Choice
However, the appointment has ignited fierce criticism, particularly from opposition leaders. Ahmad Fadhli Shaari of Parti Islam SeMalaysia (PAS) described it as “unprecedented” and questioned the rationale behind choosing a foreign leader convicted of corruption and abuse of power.
Former Prime Minister Tun Mahathir Mohamad also expressed skepticism, stating, “We have many capable Malaysians to choose from. Thaksin’s legal issues raise questions about the appropriateness of this choice.”
Thaksin’s tumultuous history ~ ranging from his ousting in a military coup in 2006 to his conviction and self-exile ~ has made him a contentious figure. Even his return to Thailand in 2023, culminating in a reduced prison sentence and parole, continues to fuel debates about his credibility.
Balancing Risk and Reward
While Anwar’s move might be seen as a gamble, it reflects his strategic move and ambition to position Malaysia as a proactive leader within ASEAN. Engaging elder statesmen like Thaksin could provide fresh perspectives on deeply entrenched regional challenges. However, it also exposes Malaysia to potential backlash, both domestically and internationally, over the optics of collaborating with a divisive figure.
As Malaysia prepares for its ASEAN chairmanship, the success of this advisory initiative will depend on the tangible outcomes it delivers. Will Thaksin’s involvement enhance ASEAN’s cohesiveness and problem-solving capacity, or will it serve as a lightning rod for criticism?
Only time will tell whether Anwar’s bold choice represents strategic foresight or a miscalculated risk. One thing is certain: this bold decision has set the stage for a high-stakes chapter in Malaysia’s regional leadership.
By: Kpost
Information Source: St , Thediplomat , Cna , Cna
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