PM urges Cambodia-Asean chair to address Myanmar unrest

PUTRAJAYA: Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob has relayed to Cambodia - Asean's chair for 2022 - on issues concerning Myanmar, including the urgent need to de-escalate the situation in the troubled member state.

Malaysia also wants to see violence against civilians to stop and that Asean, through Asean coordinating centre for humanitarian assistance, should continue to channel aid to the people of Myanmar.

The matter was raised during a video conference between the Prime Minister and his Cambodian counterpart Hun Sen on Tuesday (Jan 25).

‘“The Prime Minister also emphasised on the need for an inclusive dialogue in the interests of the people of Myanmar and calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi and U Win Myin,” said Wisma Putra in a statement.

The video conference was held at Hun Sen’s request, where Ismail Sabri also congratulated Cambodia for assuming the Asean chairmanship for 2022.

Wisma Putra said the Prime Minister has reaffirmed Malaysia’s position on the need for the special envoy of the Asean Chair on Myanmar to be granted access to all parties concerned to find a peaceful solution.

“Malaysia supports the appointment of Prak Sokhonn (Cambodia’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister) as the new special envoy,” the statement read.

Wisma Putra further said the Prime Minister suggested that proposed measures to address the situation in Myanmar should be deliberated at the Asean Foreign Ministers and senior officials’ level

“Malaysia agreed with the proposal by the Asean Chair for the Foreign Ministers’ Retreat to be convened as soon as possible.

“The Prime Minister expressed Malaysia’s support for Cambodia’s chairmanship and initiatives towards advancing efforts to develop Asean Community,” it said.