PRIME MINISTER Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has stated that there is currently no need for ASEAN to intervene comprehensively in the ongoing border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, as both nations have agreed to Malaysia continuing its role as coordinator.
Speaking to reporters after delivering the closing address at the 2026 Budget Engagement Session at the Ministry of Finance, Anwar said, “I met with the Defence Ministers of both Thailand and Cambodia today. Previously, our own Defence Minister and the Armed Forces Chief were involved in detailed coordination of border protocols.
“Alhamdulillah, as of now, both parties have expressed support for Malaysia to continue coordinating these efforts,” he said.
Anwar, who also chairs ASEAN this year, added that both Thailand and Cambodia had reiterated their commitment to upholding ceasefire conditions.
“They have pledged to fully observe all terms ensuring the ceasefire. We will continue our role in supporting this.
“There were one or two minor issues raised today, but we hope these can be resolved soon. I’ve discussed them with both Defence Ministers. ASEAN’s Defence Attachés will continue to monitor developments,” he said.
Anwar further stressed that no full-scale ASEAN intervention was necessary at this stage.
“We believe comprehensive ASEAN involvement is not required. The bilateral effort is adequate for now, and both nations are committed to this approach,” he said.
He also clarified that major powers such as the United States and China were not directly involved in managing the border situation, although they have offered logistical and support assistance if needed.
Earlier in the day, Anwar hosted separate courtesy visits by Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Tea Seiha and Thailand’s Acting Defence Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit at Perdana Putra.
Also present were Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari and Chief of Defence Forces General Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar. - August 7, 2025
