Trump’s unconventional diplomacy
Trump’s unconventional diplomacy took center stage at the Thailand–Cambodia peace deal signing ceremony, where Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim captured global attention with a humorous yet thoughtful remark. Speaking to world leaders and diplomats gathered for the event, Anwar said the world needs leaders who “promote peace strongly,” even if it means breaking the rules.
He recounted a personal encounter with U.S. President Donald Trump, saying, “When the president arrived, he asked me to join him in the car. I said that’s against protocol, and he was delighted to break the rules.” The hall erupted in laughter when Anwar added, “I was in prison, but he almost got there.”
This moment went viral, but beneath the humor lay a deeper recognition of how Trump’s unconventional diplomacy continues to influence global politics and peace efforts—even years after his presidency.
At the Thailand–Cambodia peace deal signing ceremony, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim shared a lighthearted moment about Donald Trump, praising his unconventional leadership and sense of humor.
Background: The Thailand–Cambodia Conflict
Trump’s unconventional diplomacy played a subtle yet notable role as the peace signing followed months of escalating tensions between Thailand and Cambodia along their shared border near the Preah Vihear temple, a long-disputed territory. The conflict, which originated decades ago due to unclear demarcations from colonial-era maps, reignited earlier this year after both nations accused each other of military incursions and unauthorized patrols.
In August 2025, the situation worsened when artillery and missile exchanges were reported in border provinces. Several outposts suffered damage, and civilians on both sides were displaced. The international community, including ASEAN and the United Nations, urged both countries to exercise restraint.
Despite multiple rounds of failed talks in Bangkok and Phnom Penh, a breakthrough came after the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, where Malaysia’s Anwar Ibrahim and Indonesia’s President Joko Widodo played key mediating roles. Their involvement, coupled with the encouragement of global figures including Donald Trump, paved the way for the October peace signing.
The Signing Ceremony: A Step Toward Peace
The Thailand–Cambodia Peace Agreement, signed in Bangkok on October 25, 2025, aims to de-escalate military presence along the border, create a joint demilitarized monitoring zone, and establish an economic cooperation corridor to boost cross-border trade.
During the ceremony, leaders from across ASEAN witnessed the historic moment as Thai Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet signed the deal. The agreement is expected to mark a new era of cooperation, with both sides agreeing to joint infrastructure projects and cultural exchange programs to rebuild trust.
It was at this ceremony that Anwar Ibrahim’s comment about Trump lightened the tense atmosphere, underscoring how diplomacy can be serious yet human. His reference to Trump’s unconventional diplomacy resonated deeply in a context where breaking traditional barriers led to an unexpected peace accord.
How Trump’s Unconventional Diplomacy Fits In
Anwar’s praise for Trump unconventional diplomacy was more than just humor—it reflected a diplomatic philosophy that favors bold, direct actions over lengthy bureaucratic processes. During his presidency, Trump was known for shaking up international politics by engaging directly with leaders like Kim Jong Un and challenging institutions such as NATO and the UN.
Critics often described his approach as reckless, but supporters credit him with reshaping the conversation around power, sovereignty, and national interest. His style, focused on personal rapport and deal-making, aligns with what Anwar implied—sometimes peace requires breaking a few rules to move forward.
In the ASEAN context, this philosophy seemed to manifest in the recent peace breakthrough. While traditional diplomacy had stalled the Thailand–Cambodia dialogue for months, a more candid and informal style of negotiation, inspired by what many described as “Trump-style pragmatism,” eventually helped both sides reach common ground.
The Road Ahead for Southeast Asia
The peace deal marks a significant step in ensuring long-term stability in the region. ASEAN leaders have proposed forming a Joint Peace Council, with Malaysia and Indonesia serving as neutral observers. The United States and China have both welcomed the agreement, signaling rare alignment between two rival powers in support of ASEAN-led peacekeeping.
As Southeast Asia continues to navigate shifting geopolitical tides, Anwar’s comment serves as a symbolic reminder: leadership in the modern world demands courage, humor, and at times, nonconformity. Whether loved or criticized, Trump’s unconventional diplomacy has left an enduring legacy that continues to shape global peace efforts—this time, even influencing one of Asia’s most fragile conflicts.
Conclusion
The Thailand–Cambodia peace deal shows that diplomacy, when infused with creativity and courage, can overcome even the most entrenched disputes. Anwar Ibrahim’s viral tribute to Trump’s unconventional diplomacy perfectly captured the spirit of the moment—reminding the world that breaking a few rules might just be the key to building lasting peace.
Sources: ASEAN Summit
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