Malaysia's engagement with Myanmar is a smart move for Asean
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Malaysia's success in securing
ceasefire commitments from both Myanmar's junta and the National Unity Government marks a crucial new strategy for Asean. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's pragmatic engagement with both sides exemplifies Kuala Lumpur's leadership in seeking a realistic solution: leveraging humanitarian aid as a neutral bridge for dialogue.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations' strategy of sticking to the '
five-point consensus ' has failed. The rigid framework, hampered by the junta's pariah status and Asean's divided stance, has only prolonged Myanmar's suffering. Malaysia's approach – framing dialogue around humanitarian needs after the
March 28 earthquake – offers a fresh avenue. Engaging both sides, including the shadow National Unity Government, which Asean hesitates to formally recognise, is a smart shift.
An approach that emphasises the people's urgent needs in the aftermath of the disaster can align with the National Unity Government's democratic aspirations, framing ceasefire cooperation as a step towards stability and eventual political dialogue; negotiation, even with the junta, serves the greater good of saving lives and rebuilding trust.
By working closely with Thailand, Malaysia is also wisely factoring in Asean's internal complexities, and understanding a uniform Asean response is unrealistic. As a neutral mediator, Malaysia can push for ceasefire extensions as low-risk steps toward broader stability while avoiding regional spillovers like a refugee crisis.
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However, these efforts need external involvement for lasting success. Asean alone lacks the hard power and unified political will. Malaysia must boldly advocate a parallel mechanism involving the United States, Russia, India and China to push both sides towards a real compromise.
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