ArchiveS ArchiveS

INTERVENTION

BY MS. NORDIANA ZIN ZAWAWI, COUNSELLOR
PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

 

QUESTION OF EQUITABLE REPRESENTATION ON AND INCREASE IN THE

MEMBERSHIP OF THE SECURITY COUNCIL AND OTHER MATTERS RELATED TO

THE SECURITY COUNCIL

 

THE WAY FORWARD FOR THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL NEGOTIATION PROCESS

ON SECURITY COUNCIL REFORM

 

NEW YORK, 4 MAY 2023

 

 

We thank you, distinguished Co-Chairs, for the draft “Revised Co-Chairs Elements Paper on Convergence and Divergences on the question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council and related matters”.

 

2.         Despite detecting a sense of frustration on the incremental progress of the IGN, Malaysia applauds the dedication and commitment displayed by fellow Member States in the IGN process. We owe it to you, distinguished Co-Chairs, for your stellar stewardship in navigating this long-winding endeavour. As we begin our discussion on the draft outcome document today, allow me to reiterate my delegation's position in calling for a text-based negotiations in moving the IGN process forward.

 

Co-Chairs,

 

3.         With regard to the proposed draft outcome document for this session, my delegation wishes to highlight our preliminary views as follows:

 

• Firstly, we note that the draft paper offers a better reflection of Member States' positions, with a clear distinction between elements of convergence and divergence. We believe that this format continues to provide more clarity and guidance for delegations to undertake the negotiation process next year. Although we envisage a more result-oriented draft outcome document, we consider this draft paper a small but important step in the right direction. 

• Secondly, Malaysia commends the new approach introduced by the co-facilitators whereby views are sought from academia, think tanks and former Chairs of relevant working groups. Malaysia sees value in such engagement, while preserving the intergovernmental nature of this process.
• Thirdly, Malaysia particularly supports the introduction of webcasting the IGN sessions. This is essential to promote openness and transparency in the reform process.
• Finally, we also commend the clear emphasis on the principle of democracy as an important principle in Member States' efforts to reform the Council. We trust that Member States will embrace this principle throughout our negotiations today and in the future. In this connection, we join others in calling for more engagements and meetings of the IGN this session to further refine the draft outcome document.

 

Distinguished Co-Chairs,

 

4.         Against the backdrop of more emerging threats of peace and security that we witness today, we need to go beyond the realm of pontification and digression on this reform process. Let me conclude by assuring you of Malaysia's commitment to moving this process forward. At the same time, we continue to call on others to be pragmatic and demonstrate openness, flexibility, and political will in our collective effort to reform the Security Council.

 

I thank you.