ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim Engages Leaders as Cambodia–Thailand Tensions Rise

Malaysian PM and ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim speaks with Hun Manet and Anutin Charnvirakul to de-escalate Cambodia-Thailand border tensions, emphasizing dialogue and regional stability

Staff Reporter

Dec 11, 2025, 07:35 AM2 min read

ASEAN Chair Anwar Ibrahim Engages Leaders as Cambodia–Thailand Tensions Rise

Anwar Ibrahim speaks with Hun Manet and Anutin Charnviraku/ Collceted

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, serving as the current ASEAN chair, said he has reached out to the leaders of Cambodia and Thailand amid escalating tensions along their shared border. In a statement posted on social media on December 10, Anwar confirmed he had spoken separately with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul to discuss the renewed unrest in disputed areas.

Anwar praised both leaders for their readiness to remain engaged in negotiations, stressing that openness and continued dialogue were essential to prevent further deterioration. He noted that although a permanent solution has yet to emerge, “sustained diplomatic engagement has ensured that no more serious incidents occurred during these critical hours.” According to an Asia News Network (ANN) report, regional observers believe Malaysia’s mediation efforts come at a crucial moment for ASEAN unity.

The Malaysian leader reiterated that his government would continue to support peaceful dialogue anchored in international law, urging closer regional cooperation to preserve stability. He underscored that ASEAN’s responsibility is to prevent misunderstandings that could inflame an already volatile situation.

Meanwhile, on December 9, speaking from Pennsylvania, US President Donald Trump said he intends to call both Cambodian and Thai leaders following fresh border clashes. Trump claimed he would leverage America’s trade influence to push for peace, asserting he has used similar tactics in other global conflicts. He previously contacted both governments during violent flare-ups in late July and again this month.

The diplomatic landscape became more complicated after Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced the closure of negotiation channels with Cambodia on December 9. However, in comments to Thai media the following day, he said Cambodia had not reached out to Bangkok for talks. Phnom Penh has yet to issue a formal response, leaving uncertainty over the status of bilateral communication as tensions persist.

Regional analysts warn that without meaningful engagement, the situation could worsen, but they say recent conversations initiated by the ASEAN chair may help steer both sides back toward diplomacy.

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