SHAH ALAM, Jan 20 – Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan today dismissed claims of ASEAN’s failure to manage regional conflicts and emphasised its role in mediating disputes, including the ongoing crisis in Myanmar and recent tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.
Mohamad reaffirmed Malaysia remains committed to ASEAN’s principles of a peaceful, free, and neutral region, and that the bloc’s strength lies in its unity and centrality.
“The word failure is inaccurate. Both countries (Cambodia and Thailand) still seek Malaysia’s mediation. Our role is valued because ASEAN wants issues addressed collectively, not unilaterally,” he said during a question-and-answer session in Parliament today.
The bloc’s mediation during the ASEAN Summit resulted in the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, signed in October 2025 to de-escalate the Cambodia-Thailand border dispute. The ceasefire was breached in November, but a new agreement was reached on December 27.
Mohamad was responding to Beluran MP Datuk Seri Ronald Kiandee’s claim the mediation was a failure on ASEAN’s part.
Commenting on conflict in Myanmar, Mohamad reiterated that Malaysia and ASEAN have not recognised elections that excluded broad participation.
“ASEAN has decided not to send observers and Malaysia will not endorse elections that are selective or exclude certain groups,” he said.
He stressed the bloc’s position that the crisis is no longer solely Myanmar’s internal issue, and that Malaysia continues to assist with humanitarian and cross-border concerns, especially for Rohingya refugees.
Mohamad also addressed South China Sea disputes, adding that ASEAN prefers collective mechanisms over individual action.
He also added that the Code of Conduct (COC) with China is expected to be finalised this year, reflecting ASEAN’s commitment to regional stability.
He said the bloc’s multilayered mechanisms such as treaties, dialogue, and consensus are essential tools to manage tensions without breaching the bloc’s non-interference principle.
“ASEAN will continue to unite member states and (facilitate) dialogue to uphold peace and stability,” Mohamad said.
