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STATEMENT BY MR. SOFIAN AKMAL ABD. KARIM,

DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE,

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

 

AT THE

PLENARY MEETING OF THE IGN ON SECURITY COUNCIL REFORM, TRUSTEESHIP COUNCIL CHAMBER, UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS,

 

20 FEBRUARY 2026

 

 

 

Co-Chairs,

Thank you for convening this important meeting. Malaysia appreciates the opportunity to constructively support this process.

Co-Chairs,

2.         Allow me to start by highlighting the following points, to contribute to our discussions:     

3.         First, we support expanding Security Council membership in both permanent and non-permanent categories. Such reform would strengthen the Council’s democratic character and inclusivity. It would also help ensure more adequate representation for today’s 193 Member States, a significant increase from the membership size when the current structure was originally established, and after the 1965 expansion. 

4.         Second, in response to one of the guiding questions contained in the concept note, Malaysia sees merit in exploring the possibility of a third or hybrid category of membership. A semi-permanent category, with a longer tenure than the current two-year non-permanent seats but without conferring permanent status, could offer greater continuity and accountability in the Council’s work. 

5.         Such an arrangement could enhance both representation and effectiveness, while preserving flexibility through periodic review by the wider membership, including through election by the General Assembly.

6.         Third and finally, Malaysia underscores that efforts to expand the Council’s membership would be undermined if the question of the veto remains unaddressed. Without meaningful consideration of this fundamental imbalance in the Council’s decision-making structure, even a more inclusive membership may continue to face paralysis from the exercise, or the threat, of the veto.  This is especially when non-permanent members’ positions do not align with those of the veto-wielding permanent members

7.         Malaysia therefore reiterates its call for reform of the veto, with a view to its eventual abolition, so that an expanded and more representative Council may discharge its responsibilities under the Charter, more effectively.

Co-Chairs,

8.         Institutions and structures that do not reflect current realities may lose their credibility, and the Security Council is not immune to this dynamic. It is therefore important that the Council reforms in a manner that responds to the current global needs and realities. 

9.         Comprehensive reform of the Council should accordingly be advanced with urgency, and Malaysia stands ready to engage constructively to help move this process forward.

I thank you.