Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Cambodia and Thailand to immediately de-escalate tensions following renewed armed clashes along their disputed border. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and restraint between the two Asean members.
In a Facebook post, Anwar described both countries as close partners and key contributors to regional stability, stressing that peaceful dispute resolution is vital for Asean. “We urge both sides to exercise maximum restraint, maintain open channels of communication, and make full use of the mechanisms in place,” he wrote.
Reuters reported that Thailand launched airstrikes after accusing Cambodia of breaching a ceasefire, leaving at least one Thai soldier dead and four wounded in Ubon Ratchathani province. Cambodia, in turn, claimed that Thai forces attacked its troops first, though its soldiers did not retaliate.
Anwar expressed condolences to the families affected and warned that the clashes could undermine efforts to stabilise relations. He added that Malaysia is ready to support initiatives to restore calm and prevent further violence, highlighting the need to protect civilians and return to diplomacy in line with international law and Asean principles.
