KUALA LUMPUR – Discussions on the border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia are expected to reach a conclusion this Thursday during the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar revealed that the defence ministers of both countries will meet to negotiate an agreement aimed at either concluding or extending the ceasefire, while ensuring no further violations in the disputed border regions. He expressed hope that key agreements, coordinated by Malaysia, would be finalised by August 7.
“We pray for a positive outcome. This issue not only affects bilateral relations between Cambodia and Thailand, but it also tarnishes Asean’s reputation,” Anwar said during the Prime Minister’s Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat.
In his remarks, Anwar thanked the governments of Cambodia and Thailand for their positive attitude and efforts towards achieving a final resolution.
Anwar was responding to a question from Rodiyah Sapiee (GPS-Batang Sadong), who inquired about Malaysia’s role in the peace process and the ceasefire between the two nations.
Asean solidifies support for peace efforts
In a broader show of solidarity, he said all Asean leaders have agreed to deploy their respective defence attachés to monitor the peace efforts following the recent border clashes. Anwar revealed that the consensus was reached after he personally contacted each ASEAN head of state to request their support for the initiative.
“I reached out to all the Asean leaders, including the prime ministers, presidents, and the Sultan of Brunei, to request their backing,” Anwar said.
“All of them have agreed to send their defence attachés to monitor the situation, with Malaysia’s defence attaché coordinating efforts alongside the other Asean attachés during the meeting in Kuala Lumpur.”
Malaysia has also expressed willingness to send a monitoring team to the border if requested by both Thailand and Cambodia, further underlining its role as a peace broker in the region.
Ceasefire and continued efforts
A ceasefire agreement, brokered by Malaysia on July 29, ended five days of intense clashes between the neighbouring Asean countries.
Despite the halt in hostilities, concerns remain over the potential for renewed fighting, with hundreds of thousands of residents along the border still living in evacuation camps.
Anwar assured that the situation is under control, with satellite monitoring in place to track developments. “The situation is currently stable,” he said.
“We are hopeful that the defence ministers of both countries will meet on Thursday to reach a final consensus on either ending hostilities or continuing the ceasefire, ensuring full compliance with the agreement.”
He also stressed the significance of the peace talks in preserving Asean’s reputation as a peaceful and economically vibrant region, adding that the talks are crucial for maintaining regional stability.
Anwar also acknowledged the support from both government and opposition parties, thanking them for their collective efforts in supporting the peace process.
The GBC meeting, one of several bilateral mechanisms to address border disputes, was moved to Kuala Lumpur at Thailand’s request, making the city a neutral venue for the discussions.
Both Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai agreed to hold the meeting as part of the ceasefire agreement. - August 5, 2025
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