Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Calls for Immediate Ceasefire Between Thailand and Cambodia, Offers Mediation as ASEAN Chair
KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Voice of Malaysia): Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called for an immediate ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia as deadly border clashes escalate, urging both nations to pursue peace talks and offering Malaysia’s assistance as the 2025 ASEAN Chair.
In a statement released via his official Facebook page on Thursday evening, Anwar confirmed that he had personally spoken with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s Acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai to convey Malaysia’s deep concern over the deteriorating security situation along the Thai-Cambodian border.
“This evening, I spoke with both the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Cambodia, Hun Manet, and the Acting Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, Phumtham Wechayachai, expressing Malaysia’s deep concern over the escalation of tensions along their border,” Anwar wrote.
He emphasized that Malaysia, in its role as Chair of ASEAN for 2025, is prepared to assist in facilitating peaceful negotiations to prevent further bloodshed and displacement.
“In my capacity as ASEAN Chair, I directly appealed to both leaders for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further hostilities and allow space for peaceful dialogue and diplomatic resolution,” he said.
Anwar welcomed the initial willingness shown by both Bangkok and Phnom Penh to consider diplomatic engagement and urged continued cooperation in the ASEAN spirit of unity and shared responsibility.
“Malaysia stands ready to assist and facilitate this process in the spirit of ASEAN unity,” Anwar added. “I firmly believe that ASEAN’s strength lies in its solidarity and that peace must always be our collective and unwavering choice.”
According to the latest data from Thai authorities, the recent escalation in the disputed border region has resulted in 14 deaths, 46 injuries, and the displacement of over 110,000 people.
The situation remains volatile, with military forces from both sides exchanging heavy artillery and rocket fire near the Preah Vihear Temple and Chong Bok area over the past two days. Regional observers have warned that the conflict could spiral further without swift diplomatic intervention.
As ASEAN Chair, Malaysia’s proactive outreach signals a renewed commitment to regional peacebuilding and multilateral diplomacy at a critical moment for Southeast Asia.
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