AKP Phnom Penh, September 01, 2025 --

Senior Minister H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch has underscored Malaysia's significant and long-standing contributions to Cambodia's peace process. 

He specifically highlighted Malaysia's role in preventing the resurgence of the Khmer Rouge and its participation in the 1993 United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) mission.

The Senior Minister’s remarks were made during the celebration of Malaysia's 68th National Day here on Aug. 31.

Speaking on behalf of the Royal Government and the people of Cambodia, H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch extended warm congratulations to Malaysia and wished the nation continued progress and prosperity. He emphasised the close historic ties between the two countries, noting a robust partnership built over 68 years of diplomatic relations since Aug. 31, 1957. He also acknowledged Malaysia's vital role in Cambodia's economic reconstruction after the civil war, citing investments and other contributions.

H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch who also serves as the First Vice President of Cambodian Mine Action and Victim Assistance Authority (CMAA), expressed gratitude for Malaysia's support in Cambodia's socio-economic development, particularly its assistance at the grassroots level through contributions from Malaysian companies and civil society organisations.

He also thanked Malaysian Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the Malaysian leadership for their efforts as the rotating ASEAN Chair in facilitating a crucial ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. He added that this effort, which involved the United States and China, was instrumental in de-escalating the border conflict.

In addition, H.E. Dr. Ly Thuch praised Malaysian Ambassador H.E. Shaharuddin Onn for his role in strengthening diplomatic ties and cooperation. He also acknowledged the Malaysian Defence Attaché to Cambodia for leading the Interim Observation Team (IOT), which was critical in monitoring and verifying the ceasefire on the ground.

By K. Rithy Reak