Moro Islamic Liberation Front says Malaysia’s role ‘indispensable’ to Philippines’ Bangsamoro peace process

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 – The Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has emphasized that Malaysia's involvement in the Bangsamoro peace process is indispensable and its participation should persist until the process is concluded. Mohagher Iqbal, the head of the MILF's Peace Implementing Panel, lauded Malaysia's impartiality and successful role in facilitating negotiations since 2001.

He highlighted that Malaysia's assistance was crucial in reaching key agreements such as the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB). The CAB, signed in 2014, set the stage for the passage of the Bangsamoro Organic Law and the formation of the Bangsamoro Transition Authority.

Iqbal asserted that Malaysia's continued support as an honest broker played a pivotal role in the peace process's progress, and urged its continued involvement until the Exit Agreement is finalized. The Philippine government and MILF are currently striving to reach an Exit Agreement to officially end the peace process once all commitments under the CAB are met.

Earlier, Iqbal participated in a special meeting between the Philippine government and MILF Peace Implementing Panels to discuss the implementation of the CAB. The Philippine delegation was led by Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento, while Iqbal represented the MILF. General (R) Tan Sri Zulkifli Zainal Abidin, Malaysia's peace facilitator in the process, was also present.