Post by : Meena Ariff

Photo: Reuters

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has announced that Malaysia will continue its peaceful efforts to help end the border conflict between Cambodia and Thailand. This announcement shows Malaysia’s strong commitment to promoting harmony and avoiding war in the Southeast Asian region.

The Prime Minister said he had already spoken to Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai. Both leaders appreciated Anwar’s efforts and welcomed the idea of starting a peace process and calling for a ceasefire.

Talks to Stop the Fighting

Anwar shared that there were still some exchanges of gunfire happening at the border between Cambodia and Thailand. He explained that, although the fighting is not large-scale, any form of violence is dangerous and must be stopped quickly.

To help make this happen, Anwar has instructed Malaysia’s Foreign Minister, Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, to contact the foreign ministries of both Cambodia and Thailand. The goal is to find a peaceful solution and stop the conflict as soon as possible.

"If needed, I will personally continue speaking with the leaders of both countries," Anwar said. He also explained that Malaysia's role is not to take sides, but to help both countries find a peaceful way to solve the issue and protect innocent lives on both sides.

Peace Through Dialogue

Anwar strongly believes that conflicts can be solved through honest conversations, respect, and understanding. He said that both Cambodia and Thailand have long histories, and they must find a peaceful way to fix this situation, instead of using violence.

According to Anwar, many families and communities living along the border are afraid and uncertain about the future. They live in fear of clashes or explosions near their homes. "This is why it is so important to talk, to listen, and to show kindness," he said.

He said that even though Malaysia is not directly involved in the conflict, the country cannot stay silent. As a close neighbour and friend to both Cambodia and Thailand, Malaysia wants to help bring peace and stop further damage and pain.

After the Debate Event

Anwar spoke about this important issue after attending the 50th Prime Minister’s Cup Debate Finals. The event, which encourages young people to think critically and speak confidently, was held in Malaysia today.

At the event, Anwar took some time to talk with students and teachers. He reminded everyone that young people are the future and must learn to solve problems using peaceful ways. He said that debates, discussions, and respectful talks are the tools of peace and should be used more often in schools and communities.
He added that peaceful thinking must not only happen in schools or politics, but also in how countries solve problems. “What we do here today with our young people must also happen on the world stage,” Anwar said.

Leaders at the Event

Several other important leaders were present at the debate finals, including the Education Minister, Fadhlina Sidek, and the Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir. They supported Anwar’s message and praised the students who took part in the debate.

Malaysia’s Role in the Region

Anwar reminded everyone that Malaysia is part of the ASEAN community — a group of Southeast Asian countries that work together for peace and progress. He said that all ASEAN countries should help one another and prevent wars or violent fights.

He also added that the world is already facing many big problems, such as the cost of living, environmental changes, and food shortages. War and conflict will only make things worse. “Instead of spending money on weapons, countries should spend money on schools, hospitals, and better jobs,” Anwar said.

The Need for Understanding

Anwar said that while Cambodia and Thailand have different views on some things, they share many similarities. Both countries have rich cultures, strong histories, and good people. He said it would be a great shame if all that was lost to war and violence.

He called on the leaders of both countries to be wise, to be calm, and to choose peace over anger. “It is easy to fight, but it is stronger and braver to make peace,” he said.

Anwar ended his message by saying that Malaysia will continue doing everything it can to help make peace possible — not just at the Cambodia-Thailand border, but anywhere in the region where people are in danger.