ALOR STAR: The change in leadership within Thailand's government is unlikely to disrupt the Southern Thailand Peace Dialogue mediated by Malaysia.
International relations expert Dr Faisol Keling from Universiti Utara Malaysia said the appointment of Paetongtarn Shinawatra as Thai prime minister would bring minimal changes to the country's foreign policy.
He said historically, shifts in Thai government leadership have not impacted foreign policy or policies tied to national interests due to the Thai military's involvement in politics.
"This is seen as an internal matter for Thailand and does not affect the nation's broader objectives. So far, changes in Thailand's leadership have not influenced foreign policy or policies related to their national interests.
"Therefore, the peace talks in Southern Thailand, with Malaysia acting as a mediator to find a solution between the Thai government and separatist groups, will continue," he told NST.
On Sunday, Paetongtarn was endorsed as prime minister by Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn, two days after parliament elected her.
This followed the Thai Constitutional Court's dismissal of Paetongtarn's fellow Pheu Thai party member Srettha Thavisin as prime minister due to an ethical breach in governance.
Faisol said Paetongtarn might face slight challenges leading the government due to opposition from the Thai military.
"This is because Paetongtarn is critical of the military's policy and its involvement in Thai politics.
"In seeking a resolution to the conflict in Southern Thailand, it would be advantageous if this discussion occurred under a government primarily led by the public," he said.
Meanwhile, political analyst Prof Dr Mohd Aizuddin Mohd Sani said since both leaders are from Pheu Thai, there would be little change in Thailand's foreign and national policies.
"Not much will change as both are from the same party. Therefore, the policy remains consistent, and the commitment to ensuring peace in Southern Thailand will endure," he said.
After a meeting with Srettha in Sungai Golok, Thailand, on Aug 3, Malaysia Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated Malaysia's commitment in helping resolve negotiations for the Southern Thailand Peace Dialogue.
Anwar said although Malaysia acts only as a mediator, Anwar said the country as well as Thailand nevertheless wants to see the peace dialogue process resolved.