KUALA LUMPUR: Thailand and Cambodia have been urged to hold negotiations to restore peace and stability, in line with the spirit of Asean unity and fraternity.
Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan said efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between the two nations must be guided by principles of solidarity and good neighbourliness.
He said Malaysia stands ready to play a constructive role, through the Asean Chair’s Office, in helping Thailand and Cambodia resume talks and bring an end to the fighting.
Mohamad also reiterated Malaysia’s call for both countries to exercise maximum restraint and implement an immediate, unconditional ceasefire.
“This is to prevent either Thailand or Cambodia from taking any action that may jeopardise peace efforts.
“As the Asean Chair for 2025, Malaysia is deeply concerned about the escalating tensions between the governments of Thailand and Cambodia.
“The situation has already resulted in rising casualties on both sides, widespread damage to public property, and the displacement of many residents from border areas,” he said in a statement.
The latest round of clashes between Thailand and Cambodia stems from tensions that began in May, following the death of a Cambodian soldier during an armed confrontation at the border.
The 818-kilometre border between the two countries has long been a source of dispute, with both claiming sovereignty over areas demarcated during French colonial rule in 1907.
Several ancient temples along the border remain key points of contention, including Prasat Ta Moan Thom and the famed Preah Vihear Temple.
International media earlier reported that fighting had entered its third day, although there appeared to be a glimmer of hope, as both sides expressed willingness to seek diplomatic support, claimed acts of self-defence, and called for an end to hostilities through dialogue.
At least 30 people have been killed and over 130,000 displaced in what is now the worst conflict between the two Southeast Asian neighbours in 13 years.
Thailand’s death toll remains at 19 as of today, while Cambodian Defence Ministry spokesperson Maly Socheata confirmed the deaths of five soldiers and eight civilians.
In February, the dispute over Prasat Ta Moan Thom, a Khmer temple near the Thai border, flared up further when Thai authorities barred Cambodian tourists from singing their national anthem at the site.
The Cambodian government, however, has denied initiating the conflict, stating it only responded after Thai forces launched an armed attack.
Both nations have since severed diplomatic ties and continue to blame each other for triggering the violence.
Thailand has also announced the closure of all border checkpoints with Cambodia until further notice.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
