Malaysia solidifies Asean role with peace deal in Thailand-Cambodia border dispute, say analysts

Malaysia's Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, center, Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet (left), and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai pose for photos after talks on a possible ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia in Putrajaya, Malaysia, Monday, July 28, 2025. -- Mohd Rasfan/Pool Photo via AP

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s success in brokering a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia not only eased border tensions but also reinforced its role as a key leader and facilitator within the Asean framework, according to experts.

Senior Lecturer at the Department of International Relations, Security and Law, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia Dr Nor Aishah Hanifa said Malaysia, as Asean chair under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, had displayed strong capability in fulfilling regional obligations.