MILF peace chief describes Malaysia as 'honest broker'

KUALA LUMPUR: Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) peace panel head Mohagher Iqbal described Malaysia as an "honest broker" in talks between the Philippine government and the MILF.

Speaking to reporters after a one-day meeting of the Peace Implementing Panels of the Philippine Government and the MILF yesterday, Mohagher said Malaysia's contribution was deeply valued.

Philippine government officials did not hold a press conference.

"Malaysia is an honest broker, and it has shown the way that since 2001, Malaysia has been able to journey with the two parties, tackling and overcoming obstacles along the way.

"So, there is no reason why Malaysia should not continue as the facilitating country. It has delivered.

"Malaysia should continue and must continue with the peace process because both the government and the MILF especially have very high trust in the impartiality of Malaysia."

The conflict has claimed an estimated 150,000 lives since the 1970s, according to AFP.

Mohagher said Malaysia had been involved in the peace process since 2001 and expressed hope that it would continue to facilitate the talks until an exit agreement.

He said Malaysia's role had been instrumental in helping the two parties navigate obstacles throughout the peace process.