KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF) has lauded the bold diplomatic efforts of Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in successfully brokering an immediate and unconditional ceasefire between the Kingdom of Thailand and the Kingdom of Cambodia.
MEF President, Datuk Dr Syed Hussain Syed Husman, said the achievement not only underscores Malaysia’s capability as a proactive regional leader in ASEAN but also provides immense relief to businesses, investors, and stakeholders operating in both countries.
“On behalf of Malaysian employers, including those with regional operations, supply chains, and investments in Thailand and Cambodia, MEF expresses its deep appreciation for the Prime Minister’s tireless diplomatic intervention, which has brought about a swift resolution to the escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border,” he said in a statement today.
He noted that the ceasefire is particularly significant given Malaysia’s strong economic ties with both nations.
Thailand is among Malaysia’s top trading partners in ASEAN, with bilateral trade exceeding RM100 billion annually, while Malaysia’s total investments in Cambodia have surpassed RM12.6 billion in recent years, particularly in the construction, banking, agriculture, and telecommunications sectors.
“Any instability in Thailand and Cambodia poses substantial risks to business continuity, supply chain security, and investor confidence.
“This ceasefire comes at a time when global trade is slowing, geopolitical tensions are intensifying, and additional disruptions have emerged due to changes in US tariff policies. It is a timely and much-needed development,” he added.
Syed Hussain, who also serves as President of the Confederation of Asia-Pacific Employers (CAPE), representing 21 member countries, emphasized that the resolution has eased concerns raised by many CAPE members with direct operations or investments in both nations.
“This proactive resolution helps prevent further commercial losses, supply chain disruptions, and reputational risks that could have arisen from a prolonged conflict. It creates a more secure and stable operating environment for businesses across the region,” he said.
He added that employers in labour-intensive manufacturing, agribusiness, logistics, and cross-border retail can now continue their operations without disruption, while ensuring the safety and security of their workforce and facilities.
“MEF commends the commitment of Thailand and Cambodia to resolving this conflict peacefully through ASEAN platforms and expresses deep gratitude to Prime Minister Anwar for positioning Malaysia at the forefront of constructive diplomacy,” Syed Hussain said.
He further emphasized that such acts of statesmanship reinforce the importance of regional peace as a cornerstone for economic stability, investor confidence, and job security across ASEAN.
“MEF reiterates its full support for all regional initiatives aimed at safeguarding business continuity, promoting peaceful engagement, and strengthening intra-ASEAN economic cooperation.
“We look forward to sustained stability in the region and urge all parties to maintain this momentum towards lasting peace and shared prosperity,” he concluded. -MalayaDailyToday
