Ramadan truce agreed in South

Malaysian Islamic Authority officials use a theodolite to perform rukyah, the sighting of the new moon, which signals the start of Ramadan, on Friday evening in Kuala Lumpur. Peace talks between the Thai government and southern insurgents have been taking place in the Malaysian capital this week. (Reuters Photo)

KUALA LUMPUR: The Thai government and southern separatist insurgents agreed on Friday to a truce during the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan, in what they hope could lead to a more lasting solution.

“Both main parties agreed to stop violent activities throughout the month of Ramadan from April 3 to May 14,” said Anas Abdulrahman, who leads the Barisan Revolusi Nasional (BRN) delegation to peace talks that have been taking place in the Malaysian capital.