Malaysia’s pick of Thaksin as adviser raises fears of his pro-Myanmar junta stance

Myanmar resistance groups are concerned that the former Thai leader will align his business interests with those of the military junta

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Thailand’s former prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra arrives at a tech event in Bangkok on December 4. Photo: AFP

Published: 2:19pm, 20 Dec 2024

The appointment of former Thai leader Thaksin Shinawatra as an adviser to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has sparked criticism from Myanmar resistance groups, who fear his involvement may align Malaysia’s approach to the Myanmar crisis with the military junta’s interests.

Myanmar is one of Asean’s most pressing challenges as it remains afflicted by a civil war and political turmoil following the military coup in February 2021.

Thaksin’s tenure as Thailand’s prime minister was marked by accusations of his autocratic tendencies and alleged business dealings with Myanmar’s generals.

His appointment as Anwar’s adviser on Tuesday to an informal advisory group on the Association of Southeast Asian Nations has drawn particular scrutiny as Malaysia prepares to chair the 10-member bloc next year. The chair position comes with the responsibility of shaping the bloc’s stance on regional issues, including Myanmar.

Salai Ling, leader of the Chin Human Rights Organisation (CHRO), said appointing Thaksin – who supported Myanmar’s generals during his time as Thailand’s prime minister – was cause for serious concern.

“This decision sends a troubling message to the people of Myanmar, who have hoped for a stronger Asean stance under Malaysia’s leadership,” Salai told This Week in Asia.