Bangkok – In a scathing public rebuke that has sent shockwaves through Southeast Asian diplomatic circles, retired Thai General Rangsi Kitiyanasap accused Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of acting as a “spy” for the United States, claiming the ceasefire agreement with Cambodia has inflicted severe economic damage on Thailand.
Speaking at a press conference in Bangkok, Gen. Rangsi, a respected military figure known for his hawkish views on border security, lambasted Anwar’s mediation role in the October 26 peace declaration signed in Kuala Lumpur. “Anwar has become the enemy within,” he declared, alleging that the Malaysian leader exploited the Thai-Cambodia conflict to insert U.S. trade elements into the deal, particularly concessions on Thailand’s vast rare earth mineral reserves. These reserves, critical for global tech supply chains, were reportedly pledged in exchange for U.S. tariff relief amid escalating trade tensions with China.
The general’s outburst comes amid fresh border tensions, including a landmine explosion on November 10 that injured four Thai soldiers, which Bangkok attributes to Cambodian sabotage. “This so-called peace has cost us sovereignty and billions in lost resources,” Rangsi said, urging Thailand to reconsider the truce entirely. His comments, which went viral on social media, have amplified domestic pressure on Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul, who faces accusations of weakness in handling the dispute.
Anwar dismissed the “spy” label as “unfortunate rhetoric” during a parliamentary session in Kuala Lumpur, insisting Malaysia’s facilitation was neutral and that all terms were set by Thailand and Cambodia. Analysts warn that such personal attacks could unravel ASEAN’s fragile unity, with Gen. Rangsi’s influence potentially swaying military hardliners against further concessions.
