![[UPDATED] Malaysia to extend border peacekeeping role beyond Asean chair term](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fimages%2Farticles%2FTHAILAND-CAMBODIA-BORDER-CONFLICT_dfbedbb6e5c74e829a7fdbee62684c18_1754364669.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
[UPDATED] Malaysia to extend border peacekeeping role beyond Asean chair term
He said the mandate entrusted to Malaysia to coordinate the border issue was not tied to its Asean chairmanship and would remain in place until the situation stabilises, ideally within three months.
"I was asked to continue the role until the issue is resolved. It is not bound by Asean or a fixed timeline, but we are targeting a resolution within three months.
"However, in any negotiation, we cannot set a rigid deadline," he said during Minister's Question Time in the Dewan Rakyat.
He was responding to a supplementary question from Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari (PH - Sungai Petani), who asked how long the Asean Monitoring Team (AMT), led by Malaysia, would continue its observation mission along the Thailand–Cambodia border, particularly through the ongoing General Border Committee (GBC) meetings.
Anwar also said that any conflict involving Asean countries must be resolved internally, without the involvement of major powers such as the United States or China.
However, he added that logistical assistance from such countries would be welcomed, provided that peacekeeping efforts remain under Asean oversight.
"In any negotiation process, there must be a ceasefire. This way, we can avoid intervention from major powers.
"If there is a need for a peacekeeping presence, it should only involve Asean military attachés. Logistical support from countries like the United States or China is welcome, but not troops."
On July 28, Malaysia, as the Asean chair, hosted a special meeting in Kuala Lumpur involving Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and acting Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayacha.
Following the meeting, Anwar had announced that both countries had agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
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