RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has reaffirmed its commitment to Southeast Asian regional stability by deploying two Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel to join the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) in Cambodia.

Lieutenant Colonel Devi Ibrohim and Major Rangga Hadi Saputra arrived in Phnom Penh on April 25, 2026. Their primary mission is to monitor the implementation of the ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. Upon their arrival, they were officially received by the Chargé d'Affaires of the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh, Krishnajie, on April 26.

“The presence of these two TNI personnel is to replace Colonel Hermawan Weharima and Lieutenant Colonel Sukmana Bayuaji, who have successfully completed their assignments, marking the continuity of Indonesia's contribution to regional monitoring mechanisms,” the Indonesian Embassy in Phnom Penh stated on Friday, May 1, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

In light of the complex dynamics between Cambodia and Thailand over the past year, the presence of a neutral third party is considered crucial. The AOT serves as a credible observer to ensure ceasefire agreements are effectively implemented and to prevent potential escalations of conflict.

Since Indonesia joined the AOT on September 10, 2025, its team has been responsible for several critical tasks to maintain regional peace. These duties include monitoring the ongoing security situation at the border and conducting on-site field verifications to ensure all parties are adhering to established agreements.

Additionally, the team provides objective reports to all involved parties, a process designed to build mutual trust and ensure transparency throughout the mission.

The AOT is the successor to the ASEAN Interim Observer Team (IOT), which was established following a special meeting in Putrajaya, Malaysia, in July 2025. This initiative was born out of the necessity for a credible monitoring mechanism following armed border disputes between Cambodia and Thailand.

The operational foundation for this mission was finalized during the General Border Committee (GBC) meeting between the two nations in October 2025, establishing the Terms of Reference (TOR) for field operations.

“For Indonesia, involvement in the AOT reflects a sustained commitment to encouraging peaceful conflict resolution and strengthening the regional security architecture,” the Embassy added.

This deployment stands as a concrete example of Indonesia’s active and constructive defense diplomacy, ensuring that peace is maintained through direct engagement and strategic cooperation within the ASEAN framework. ***