Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's prime minister announced efforts to deploy ASEAN observers to the Thai-Cambodian border, which has witnessed deadly clashes recently. Anwar Ibrahim communicated with Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet and Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, following a conversation with US President Donald Trump.

According to Anadolu Agency, Anwar expressed Malaysia's concerns and urged restraint from both sides, advocating for a ceasefire effective from December 13, 2025, at 22:00 (UTC+7). He proposed the deployment of the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) led by Malaysia's Chief of Defense Forces, complemented by US satellite monitoring, to ensure transparency and accountability.

The findings from these efforts are set to be presented at the ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting, aiming to stabilize the region. However, Anutin refuted the proposed ceasefire timing, stating negotiations with Cambodia are premature, as reported by Thai Enquirer.

In contrast, Hun Manet showed support on Facebook for Malaysia's initiative, welcoming the involvement of the ASEAN Observer Team and US participation. The ongoing border conflicts have displaced approximately 700,000 people and resulted in 33 deaths since Monday, with casualties on both sides, including civilians and military personnel.

The tension escalated after a peace deal signed in Kuala Lumpur in October was suspended due to a landmine incident injuring Thai soldiers. Additionally, 18 Cambodian soldiers remain detained in Thailand from previous incidents. The longstanding border dispute has frequently led to violence, most notably in July with significant casualties.