Commentary: Thaksin’s return to ASEAN issues may seem questionable – but it’s really a no-brainer for Anwar

WHAT CAN THAKSIN BRING TO THE TABLE?

Although many stated that Anwar’s decision was unprecedented in ASEAN history, the assembling of informal advisers is rather frequent on a global scale. 

The idea is straightforward: You get retired folks with extensive knowledge and experience to offer insights and advice on an informal basis. You get access to ideas and varying perspectives without having to commit to taking action. 

Across various locations and contexts, this kind of body is typically referred to as a “council of elders”. Members of these groups typically have personal networks that transcend the restrictive red tape of established bureaucracies and procedures. This is an especially helpful factor, one that many people may not fully understand. 

When it comes to the Myanmar issue, Thaksin is particularly valuable. 

He is well-connected to the Myanmar junta and is familiar with all its important figures. Thailand and Myanmar share a lengthy border, which puts him in a position to make things happen. 

Additionally, most tend to overlook the fact that Thaksin has good connections in Cambodia, which is widely seen in ASEAN circles as being too close to China. Aside from a reputedly tight relationship with former leader Hun Sen, the strongman of Cambodia, Thaksin is also known to have high-level contacts in Singapore and Brunei.

Thaksin can also promote Thailand’s “Six Countries, One Destination” concept, modelled after Europe’s Schengen visa, which would allow tourists to visit Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos and Brunei with a single visa. 

Border issues such as human and drug smuggling, as well as road, rail and customs links to boost growth and commercial activity, are also high on Malaysia’s agenda. For instance, Malaysia is eager to begin construction on a new bridge connecting Sungai Kolok district in Narathiwat to Kelantan’s Rantau Panjang within the next three years. 

Thaksin is well-placed to deliver some much-needed political lubrication in all these areas.