Malaysia has expressed deep concern over the renewed armed clashes between Thai and Cambodian forces along their shared border, warning that the violence threatens to unravel years of diplomatic progress between the two neighbours.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim issued a statement on 8 December offering condolences to the families of those killed and injured in the fighting. He emphasised that both Thailand and Cambodia are close partners of Malaysia and integral members of ASEAN, urging them to exercise “maximum restraint” and to maintain open channels of communication.
“The renewed fighting risks unravelling the careful work that has gone into stabilising relations between the two neighbours,” Anwar said, stressing that Malaysia stands ready to support steps aimed at restoring calm and preventing further incidents.
The clashes, which erupted near the long-disputed Preah Vihear temple area, have already displaced hundreds of thousands of civilians and caused multiple casualties.
Both sides have accused each other of violating a fragile ceasefire brokered earlier this year, with reports of airstrikes, artillery exchanges, and hospital evacuations.
ASEAN leaders have voiced alarm at the escalation, with regional observers warning that the conflict could destabilise wider Southeast Asia if not contained. Amnesty International has also raised concerns about the humanitarian toll, citing risks to civilian lives and essential infrastructure.
Anwar underscored Malaysia’s commitment to ASEAN’s principles of dialogue and cooperation, stating: “Our region cannot afford to see long-standing disputes slip into cycles of confrontation.
The immediate priority is to halt the fighting, safeguard civilians, and return to a diplomatic path supported by international law and the neighbourly spirit on which ASEAN depends.”
The statement reflects Malaysia’s broader role in promoting peace and stability within ASEAN, particularly at a time when regional unity is being tested by overlapping disputes and geopolitical pressures.
Analysts note that Malaysia’s call for restraint could help reinforce ASEAN’s credibility as a platform for conflict resolution.
Sources: PM Anwar Ibrahim’s FB Page, Sarawak Daily
