JAKARTA: The immediate and unconditional ceasefire agreed by Thailand and Cambodia not only reflects the strength of Asean's convening power but also the constructive engagement of its partners in safeguarding regional stability, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In his policy speech on Asean delivered at the Asean Secretariat here on Tuesday (July 29), Anwar, who is also the current chairman of the bloc, said such an episode has served as a vital reaffirmation of the values that have served the Asean region well.
"By continuing to uphold the Asean Charter and the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, we can strengthen the peace dividend, ensuring Asean remains a community of trust, cooperation, and shared prosperity for generations to come," he said.
Asean Secretary-General also Kao Kim Hourn attended the event.
On Monday, Anwar succeeded in mediating an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia after a special meeting held in Putrajaya, which has drawn international praise and put Malaysia in the global spotlight.
The United States was a co-organiser of the meeting, while China, as an observer, aimed to promote a peaceful resolution to the ongoing situation.
According to Anwar, the episode reminds Asean of the qualities which have kept the region at peace – patience, trust and steady diplomacy – are the same qualities that give meaning to Asean's centrality and unity today.
"I have consistently underscored that Asean's centrality, unity and autonomy should remain the compass in our collective journey ahead.
"However, we must be cognisant that these ethos are not a right, but a privilege we must work hard to sustain in the face of shifting regional and global dynamics. In a fragmented world, our centrality and unity matter more than ever," he said.
Anwar also commended Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai for their statesmanship, as well as United States President Donald Trump and the Chinese leadership for their constructive engagement.
The presence and cooperation of all parties reaffirm that peace is best achieved through dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to stability, he said.
Anwar is currently in Indonesia for a two-day working visit for the 13th Malaysia-Indonesia Annual Consultation from July 28.
The Prime Minister arrived in Jakarta on Monday accompanied by key officials, including Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg, Sabah Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, as well as Investment, Trade, and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek. – Bernama
