• Myanmar's junta and opposition likely to extend ceasefire for earthquake relief.
• Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim urged both sides to prioritize humanitarian efforts.
• The ceasefire was initially declared after a magnitude-7.7 earthquake killed thousands.
• The situation remains critical with ongoing military operations in some areas.
• ASEAN leaders express cautious optimism regarding the talks.

Myanmar’s ruling military and the opposition government-in-exile have indicated their willingness to extend a ceasefire to facilitate aid efforts following the catastrophic earthquake on March 28 that left over 3,700 dead, as announced by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. He stated in a press briefing in Bangkok that both parties committed to maintaining the ceasefire, emphasizing its importance for humanitarian operations across the country, according to AA.

Anwar, who also holds the rotating chairmanship of the ASEAN bloc, engaged in crucial discussions with Myanmar’s junta chief Min Aung Hlaing and representatives of the National Unity Government (NUG), the shadow government formed in opposition to the military regime. He remarked, “There will be a ceasefire and no unnecessary provocations, because otherwise the whole humanitarian exercise would fail,” highlighting the urgency of the situation, according to The Jakarta Post.

The initial 20-day ceasefire was declared by the junta on April 2, shortly after massive relief operations commenced. However, reports indicate that fighting has persisted, including airstrikes carried out by the military in various regions, complicating the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Anwar insisted that ensuring the safety of all personnel involved in humanitarian efforts is paramount, as articulated in remarks during the press conference, according to Reuters.

In addition to negotiating the extension of the ceasefire, Anwar has also emphasized ASEAN’s continuous role in mediating between the junta and opposition factions, which includes engaging the NUG while not recognizing the junta’s legitimacy. "We understand that ASEAN, in its role as a regional body, may seek to engage with all actors involved in Myanmar's situation," a spokesperson for the NUG confirmed, as reported by Reuters.

The eagerness to extend the ceasefire reflects the alarming humanitarian crisis affecting millions, with approximately 2 million people in critical need of assistance after the earthquake. Anwar expressed that both parties had assured him of the importance of sustaining this truce, which is essential for effective humanitarian aid deployment, according to Channel News Asia.