"I spoke with Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet and acting Thai prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai, expressing Malaysia's deep concern over the escalating tension along the border," Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim posted on Facebook on the night of 24/7.
"During the phone call, as the 2025 ASEAN chair, I directly appealed to both leaders for an immediate ceasefire to prevent hostile actions, creating space for peaceful dialogue and a diplomatic solution," Mr. Anwar said.
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Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim during a press conference in Moscow, Russia on 14/5. Photo: Reuters |
Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim during a press conference in Moscow, Russia on 14/5. Photo: Reuters
The Malaysian prime minister welcomed the positive signals from both Cambodia and Thailand in considering this approach. He affirmed Malaysia's readiness to support and facilitate this process in the spirit of ASEAN solidarity and shared responsibility.
Mr. Anwar expressed confidence that ASEAN's strength lies in its unity, affirming that peace must always be the region's steadfast and collective choice.
The Malaysian prime minister's comments followed clashes between Cambodian and Thai forces that erupted near the Ta Moan Thom temple on the morning of 24/7, subsequently spreading to other areas along the border.
The fighting intensified as Cambodian and Thai troops deployed heavy weapons. Thailand accused Cambodia of shelling residential areas, resulting in 12 fatalities. Bangkok deployed F-16 fighter jets to strike military targets across the border in retaliation.
Cambodia has not released casualty figures from the fighting.
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Location of Ta Muan Thom temple and other disputed temples between Cambodia and Thailand. Graphic: CNA |
Location of Ta Muan Thom temple and other disputed temples between Cambodia and Thailand. Graphic: CNA
Several countries and international organizations, including China, Malaysia, the US, and the European Union (EU), have expressed concern and urged both sides to de-escalate tensions and end the conflict.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang on 24/7 emphasized the importance of both sides exercising maximum restraint, refraining from the use of force, preventing further escalation, and resolving differences peacefully and appropriately based on the fundamental principles of international law.
Nguyen Tien (AFP, Reuters, CNA)
