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EXPLANATION OF VOTE BY

MR SOFIAN AKMAL ABD KARIM

DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE / CDA a.i

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

AT THE

ELEVENTH EMERGENCY SPECIAL SESSION OF THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY

(RESUMED: 18 TH PLENARY MEETING)

NEW YORK, 23 FEBRUARY 2023

 

Mr. President,

 

Malaysia has been following closely the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. We are deeply concerned over the increase in civilian casualties and in the number of displaced persons, as well as the destruction of civilian infrastructure, which continues to this day. In any armed conflict, it is always the affected civilians – men, women, young and old – who suffer the most. As such, we urge all parties to fully comply with their obligations under the international humanitarian law and international human rights law.

 

At the same time, Malaysia wishes to see an immediate end to hostilities and the start of peaceful negotiations. Malaysia believes that for meaningful dialogue and negotiations to start, all sides must take into consideration the 2 legitimate security concerns of both Ukraine and Russia given the complex geopolitical context. This must be addressed through dialogue and peaceful means in accordance with the principles of the UN Charter and rule of law.

 

Malaysia has and will continue to uphold the principles of respect for the sovereignty, and the independence and territorial integrity of States. Staying faithful to these principles, Malaysia will vote in favour of this resolution.

 

Mr. President,

 

Malaysia regrets what we see as the inability or unwillingness of the Security Council to discharge its primary responsibility to maintain international peace and security. The General Assembly has adopted five resolutions related to the ongoing conflict, but the situation on the ground remains the same, if not worse.

 

In this regard, Malaysia calls on all parties concerned to take immediate steps to de-escalate to prevent further loss of lives and destruction. Today, we have heard calls and appeals for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace by fellow delegates. Malaysia strongly echo these calls and appeals.

 

Mr. President,

 

Finally, Malaysia wishes to register our disappointment over the fact that there were no open-ended discussions with Member States at large. We feel that there should be more open-ended consultations so that the larger 3 membership of the UN would be able to engage with the penholders in order to air their views, especially since this will be the sixth resolution on the issue.

 

Malaysia reiterates our commitment to the peaceful settlement of disputes, guided by the principles enshrined in the UN Charter and under international law in the interest of maintaining regional and international peace and security.

 

Thank you.