KL PEACE ACCORD A TESTAMENT TO M'SIA’S CREDIBLE DIPLOMACY, STRENGTHENS ASEAN’S ROLE - ANALYSTS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- The success of the KL Peace Accord between Thailand and Cambodia is more than a symbol of reconciliation between the two nations; it also strengthens Malaysia’s reputation as a trusted mediator regionally and internationally, according to analysts.

Political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said the peace accord  proves that ASEAN can act as a genuine conflict resolver, rather than merely an observer, with Malaysia playing a pivotal role as the “host of peace.”

“Malaysia has showcased credible diplomacy, proving that conflict resolution in Southeast Asia can be achieved regionally without dependence on external powers. This marks a significant step, although it remains early to gauge long-term stability,” he told Bernama.

The peace deal, signed in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 26 and witnessed by ASEAN leaders alongside a United States representative, commits both countries to cease all attacks along the border, withdraw heavy weaponry, and establish an ASEAN-led monitoring team to ensure adherence to the ceasefire.

He said it further highlights Malaysia’s success as the host and principal facilitator of the talks, aligning with its ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, while strengthening the bloc’s position as an effective and autonomous platform for regional diplomacy.

Sivamurugan noted that Malaysia’s credibility as a neutral nation, combined with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s inclusive leadership and the country’s extensive experience in multi-party diplomacy, allowed it to gain the trust of the conflicting parties.

He added that the achievement further bolsters ASEAN’s reputation as a mature bloc capable of managing its own conflicts.

“Malaysia’s standing has been elevated as a key player in regional security, while ASEAN has sent a clear message that peace and stability in the region can be secured through well-structured regional mechanisms,” he said.

Meanwhile, geostrategist Prof Dr Azmi Hassan from the Nusantara Strategic Research Academy noted that the term “KL Peace Accord” was coined by the administration of United States President Donald Trump, which commended Malaysia’s role as a neutral mediator in the ceasefire talks.

“Trump was very pleased with Malaysia for successfully acting as a catalyst for the Thailand-Cambodia ceasefire agreement. He described Malaysia as a fair and trustworthy mediator, not only within ASEAN but also beyond,” he said.

Azmi explained that Washington’s confidence in Malaysia offers a diplomatic advantage, including in future engagements with the United States on global issues such as Gaza, as Malaysia is now seen as a principled actor driven by humanitarian values rather than solely by religious considerations.

“When Trump and the United States recognise Malaysia as an honest and transparent mediator, it opens the door for the country to host negotiations on various international conflicts. This is a diplomatic achievement in its own right, showcasing the Prime Minister’s acumen and Malaysia’s capacity to earn global trust,” he added.

-- BERNAMA