KUALA LUMPUR – United States President Donald Trump recently lauded Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, calling his efforts to broker peace between Thailand and Cambodia a “fantastic job”, the prime minister said today.
According to local media, Trump’s praise followed Malaysia’s successful facilitation of a ceasefire agreement between the two nations after months of conflict.
During a phone call, Trump expressed his admiration for Malaysia’s role in uniting Thailand and Cambodia, something that had eluded previous international attempts. “He (Trump) said, ‘Prime Minister Anwar, fantastic work.’ He used the term ‘fantastic’ three times,” Anwar said.
Anwar, speaking at the launch of the Mega 3D Carnival 2025 (MK3D 2025) at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), explained that Malaysia’s strong and stable government had earned the country international recognition, ultimately securing its role as a mediator in the ongoing conflict.
“The country remains peaceful because we have a strong government. Therefore, we must be cautious of any efforts aimed at weakening it. If the country were to fall into disarray, with constant conflict and political demands, who would come to us?” Anwar emphasised.
Anwar further detailed the diplomatic efforts that led to the ceasefire agreement. He confirmed that the Defence Ministers from both Thailand and Cambodia would arrive in Kuala Lumpur on August 4 to finalise negotiations concerning peace and security along their shared border.
“I was updated by Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet, who thanked Malaysia for its assistance. He informed me that there is no more fighting. Both Thailand and Cambodia remain in close contact with Malaysia to ensure peace,” Anwar stated.
The Prime Minister also noted that the success of Malaysia’s mediation had drawn widespread international attention. Even President Trump recognised Malaysia’s efforts, praising the country for achieving a peace agreement that had eluded other global powers, including the US and China.
“The first attempt at negotiations had limited success. President Trump had tried by phone. China also tried, and there was some success. But Malaysia, through the Foreign Ministry and the Commander of the Armed Forces, coordinated efforts. Within just two and a half hours, a ceasefire agreement was reached,” Anwar explained.
Earlier reports confirmed that Thailand and Cambodia had agreed to an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, facilitated by Malaysia in a Special Meeting in Putrajaya.
Malaysia acted as the official coordinator for the session, cementing its role as a peace broker in the region. – August 2, 2025