![[UPDATED] Anwar urges calm as Thai-Cambodian border tensions rise](/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fassets.nst.com.my%2Fimages%2Farticles%2Fgwkooppowe_1753345899.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
[UPDATED] Anwar urges calm as Thai-Cambodian border tensions rise
He said he had already sent messages to both the Cambodian and Thai prime ministers and hopes to speak with them later this evening.
"This development is concerning. They are important members of Asean and close to Malaysia.
"I have sent messages to both prime ministers and look forward to speaking with them this evening.
"At the very least, we hope they will stand down and try to negotiate. They have tried (to negotiate), but I still think peace is the only option," he told reporters after attending the Asean Semiconductor Summit here today.
Present were Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Human Resources Minister Steven Sim.
When asked how the dispute might affect trade within Asean, Anwar said it was premature to draw conclusions, saying the situation is temporary.
He said both Thailand and Cambodia have their nations best interests at heart and are seeking a peaceful resolution.
On whether there would be a stern warning issued in his capacity as Asean chair, Anwar said no, adding that Malaysia hoped to engage both leaders and express its views.
On comments that no Asean country has stepped forward to mediate, Anwar said, "No, I had initial discussions with both prime ministers last month, and we've since sent messages to them.
"I am looking forward to speaking with them again later," he said.
Thailand launched air strikes while Cambodia fired rockets and artillery, killing a civilian, in an escalation of their border dispute.
The clash centres around the Emerald Triangle, a border area shared by Thailand, Cambodia, and Laos, which houses several ancient temples.
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