Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, acting ASEAN chair, has called for both Thailand and Cambodia to cease all fighting and weapon deployments from 10pm tonight and the deployment of ASEAN Observation Team (AOT), supported by satellite. Prime Minister Hun Manet has shared his support for both suggestions.
In a social media post a short while ago, Anwar said that after discussing the conflict with US President Donald Trump, he held separate calls with Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul of Thailand and Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia. During the exchanges, he conveyed Malaysia’s deep concern over the situation.
“I have urged both sides to exercise maximum restraint, cease all forms of hostilities and refrain from any further military actions, including the use of force or forward movement of armed units, with effect from December 13 at 10pm,” he said.
“To support de-escalation and promote transparency, I have requested the deployment of the AOT, led by the Malaysian Chief of Defence Forces, to monitor developments on the ground. This mission will be complemented by satellite monitoring capabilities provided by the US government, commencing at the same time,” he added.
According to Anwar, the findings from the satellite monitoring and field observations will be presented to an ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on Tuesday, December 16. The report will provide an objective account of the situation, including the positions of both parties, in the interest of accountability, confidence-building and the preservation of peace and stability in the region.
“Malaysia remains committed to working closely with ASEAN partners and the international community to ensure that dialogue, restraint and diplomacy prevail,” he said.
Prime Minister Hun Manet was quick to accept the suggestions.
“Cambodia welcomes and supports the initiative of Prime Minister Anwar of Malaysia for a ceasefire tonight, which will be monitored by ASEAN Observation Teams, with the participation of the US,” he said.
