In separate calls with Cambodian prime minister Hun Manet and Thailand’s acting prime minister Phumtham Wechayachai, Anwar said he voiced Malaysia’s “deep concern” over esclating tensions.

“In our conversations, in Malaysia’s capacity as Asean chair for 2025, I appealed directly to both leaders for an immediate ceasefire to prevent further hostilities and to create space for peaceful dialogue and diplomatic resolution,” he said in an X posting tonight.

Anwar welcomed what he described as “positive signals and willingness” from both sides to consider a ceasefire and said Malaysia was ready to help facilitate the process.

“I firmly believe that Asean’s strength lies in its solidarity and that peace must always be our collective and unwavering choice,” he added.

The appeal came after deadly clashes between Thailand and Cambodia today left at least 12 dead.

The border flashpoint, where Thailand, Cambodia and Laos meet, has seen tensions rise since May, when a Cambodian soldier was killed in a skirmish.

Since then, both sides have traded barbs and tit-for-tat retaliatory measures, with Thailand restricting border crossings and Cambodia halting certain imports.

On Wednesday, Thailand expelled Cambodia’s ambassador and recalled its own envoy after a Thai soldier lost a leg in a landmine explosion. Cambodia responded by downgrading ties with Bangkok.