Phar, Kim Beng and Hamzah, Luthfy (2025) Thailand, Cambodia know peace begins when war of words ends. New Straits Times, NA (NA). pp. 1-3.
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Abstract
This article examines the renewed tensions between Thailand and Cambodia through the lens of conflict escalation, political rhetoric, and regional diplomacy. It argues that sustained peace cannot be achieved solely through ceasefires, military restraint, or formal negotiations without a corresponding reduction in hostile political discourse and inflammatory public messaging. The exchange of accusatory rhetoric between political actors risks reinforcing nationalist sentiments, narrowing diplomatic space, and transforming manageable bilateral disputes into prolonged regional security concerns. Within this context, the article highlights the importance of political communication as an integral component of conflict de-escalation and confidence-building. It further underscores the role of ASEAN in encouraging dialogue, restraint, and diplomatic engagement between member states, particularly when bilateral tensions threaten regional stability and ASEAN cohesion. By emphasising the need to end the “war of words,” the article contends that sustainable peace between Thailand and Cambodia requires political leaders to exercise rhetorical discipline, restore channels of communication, and prioritise diplomacy over nationalist confrontation. Ultimately, the article situates the Thailand–Cambodia tensions within the broader challenge of ASEAN conflict management, demonstrating that regional peace begins not only with the cessation of armed hostilities but also with the deliberate construction of a political environment conducive to dialogue, mutual confidence, and peaceful coexistence.
| Item Type: | Article (Newspaper) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Thailand–Cambodia relations; ASEAN; conflict de-escalation; political rhetoric; regional security; conflict management; diplomacy; nationalism; confidence-building; Southeast Asia |
| Subjects: | J Political Science > JZ International relations |
| Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button): | International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) Office of the Rector |
| Depositing User: | Mr Muhammad Syameer Luthfy Bin Hamzah |
| Date Deposited: | 21 Jul 2026 16:53 |
| Last Update: | 21 Jul 2026 16:53 |
| Queue Number: | 2026-07-Q4277 |
| URI: | http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130088 |
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