The United States has praised Malaysia’s leadership in rapidly deploying an ASEAN observer team to the Thailand-Cambodia border, describing the initiative as a meaningful contribution to regional peace and security.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, speaking at the 23rd IISS Shangri-La Dialogue, said Malaysia and ASEAN had shown strong commitment in easing tensions and supporting diplomatic efforts through collective action.
He said the deployment reflected growing regional determination to maintain stability by taking proactive steps in conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
Hegseth also expressed appreciation for ASEAN’s role in supporting what he described as President Donald Trump’s peace initiative in the region.
The KL Peace Accord, signed by Thailand and Cambodia during the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur last year, was witnessed by regional leaders including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his capacity as ASEAN chair.
He added that several Southeast Asian countries are also strengthening defence cooperation and military capabilities to support regional security efforts.
Among them, Singapore was highlighted for its strong defence investment and role in supporting US logistics and rotational deployments.
Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam were also noted for expanding military cooperation with the United States and improving readiness through joint exercises and interoperability initiatives.
