‘M'sia trusted to lead peace talks'
KOTA KINABALU: Thailand and Cambodia have entrusted Malaysia to lead peace talks between them due to our friendly diplomacy, stable politics and developing economy, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
He said Malaysia, as a friendly nation, is proud to play a role in resolving the conflict between the two neighbouring countries, helping to ensure regional peace and stability.
'When Cambodia and Thailand were in conflict, Malaysia successfully negotiated peace terms.
'Both sides placed their trust in us and agreed to hold talks in Kuala Lumpur,' he said.
Anwar added that Cambodian Defence Minister Gen Tea Seiha and Thai acting Defence Minister Gen Natthaphon Narkphanit are expected to arrive in Kuala Lumpur today to engage in detailed discussions aimed at further easing tensions.
Anwar said Malaysia's role in the peace negotiations has elevated its standing on the global stage, attracting the attention of world leaders, including those from Germany, France and other Asian nations.
'US President Donald J. Trump personally called at 6.50am to congratulate us on our success in brokering peace between the two countries.
'Indonesia also reached out with similar praise,' he said during the closing ceremony of the National Farmers, Breeders and Fishermen's Day here yesterday.
On July 28, Thailand and Cambodia agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire following a special meeting in Putrajaya chaired by Anwar, in Malaysia's capacity as current Asean Chair.
The meeting also saw both parties agreeing to hold a General Border Committee meeting as part of the ceasefire implementation.
On another matter, Anwar said Malaysia is not surrendering anything by choosing to engage in amicable discussions with Indonesia to resolve the Sulawesi Sea maritime dispute.
He stressed that such an approach reflects Malaysia's desire to maintain friendly ties with Indonesia.
'Indonesia is a friendly nation, and President Prabowo Subianto is a personal family friend,' Anwar said, adding that discussions must be held in accordance with the law.
He emphasised the importance of involving Sabah and Sarawak in any deliberations, stating that any decision must first obtain the approval of the respective state governments and legislative assemblies.
'This is our country. We fight and spend hundreds of thousands, maybe even millions, just to protect Sabah's rights,' he said, referring to the defunct Sulu sultanate's claims over the state.
On the potential undersea project collaboration between PETRONAS and Indonesian oil and gas corporation Pertamina, Anwar clarified that it has yet to be finalised.
He noted that both countries must continue discussions on working terms, especially in areas involving land and sea resource development that require clear coordination.
As an example, he pointed out that while oil extracted from land belongs to Sabah, underwater resources may fall within Indonesian maritime boundaries, among other states and nations.
'This is what we are working on together, and it all depends on ongoing negotiations,' he said.
Anwar and Prabowo recently issued a joint statement pledging to explore a proposed joint development in the Sulawesi Sea, including the Ambalat block, in a peaceful and mutually beneficial manner.
The Ambalat block, located off the coast of Sabah and spanning some 15,000 sq km, is believed to contain substantial crude oil reserves.
Separately, Anwar said national carrier Malaysia Airlines (MAS) is able to purchase new aircraft due to healthy financial performance and sound management.
The Prime Minister said the decision to acquire 30 Boeing aircraft also reflected Malaysia's effective trade diplomacy with the United States.
'For the first time last year, MAS recorded a profit because we did not 'sakau' (steal),' he quipped.
He credited the economic recovery to political stability and strategic ties with countries such as the United States.
Anwar noted that many agreements have been reached for Malaysia's economic benefit, including the aircraft deal, which he said was finalised about four or five months ago.
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