Malaysia Urges Cambodia–Thailand to Return to Dialogue and Preserve Regional Stability

Malaysia Urges Cambodia–Thailand to Return to Dialogue and Preserve Regional Stability

Kuala Lumpur, 21 December 2025 — Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has reaffirmed Malaysia’s active diplomatic engagement to help de-escalate tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, underscoring the urgent need for dialogue, mutual respect, and regional stability.

In a statement issued today, Prime Minister Anwar revealed that he had direct engagements with the Prime Ministers of both Cambodia and Thailand to exchange views and discuss the most constructive pathways toward easing the rising tensions between the two neighboring countries. He emphasized that Malaysia, consistent with its role and responsibilities within ASEAN, is committed to encouraging calm, restraint, and diplomatic solutions.

The Malaysian Prime Minister stressed that Cambodia and Thailand must adhere to the spirit of dialogue, wisdom, and mutual respect in order to bring tensions to an end and preserve peace and stability in the region. He underlined that lasting solutions cannot be achieved through confrontation, but only through sincere engagement and respect for one another’s concerns.

Prime Minister Anwar further highlighted that the upcoming ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting represents an appropriate and constructive platform for both countries to engage openly, resolve differences through peaceful means, and work toward a fair and lasting solution. He expressed confidence that ASEAN-led mechanisms remain central to preventing further escalation and to reinforcing regional unity.

Malaysia’s intervention reflects growing regional concern over the situation and reinforces ASEAN’s collective responsibility to safeguard peace, stability, and cooperation in Southeast Asia.