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STATEMENT BY THE DEPUTY PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE,

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS, NEW YORK

 

AT THE

 

70^TH PLENARY MEETING OF THE 80^TH SESSION OF

THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

 

ON THE REPORT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL ON THE WORK OF THE ORGANIZATION – ITEM 110

 

President,

 

It is especially poignant, as his briefing is the final one. Malaysia thanks the Secretary-General for his briefing and report, as well as his staunch defense of the Charter and multilateralism over the past nine years.We also align ourselves with the statement delivered on behalf of the Group of 77 and China.

 

2. The report paints a clear picture of a world facing multiple, intersecting crises which transcend borders and cannot be addressed through unilateral or fragmented approaches. They demand collective solutions rooted in cooperation, solidarity and shared responsibility.

 

3. The report’s emphasis on multilateral cooperation and future-oriented reforms reflect the global stewardship the international community urgently needs. Malaysia firmly believes that effective multilateralism, anchored in the Charter, remains the most legitimate and inclusive framework for collective action.

 

4. Against this backdrop, Malaysia urges Member States to reflect on our collective responsibilities and on our shared endeavors to strengthen the UN in the face of complex and interlinked global challenges. These challenges call for sustained dialogue, enhanced cooperation and renewed commitment to the purposes and principles of the Charter. Building on this understanding, Malaysia wishes to share its perspectives on several priority issues.

 

5. First, Malaysia remains gravely concerned by the ongoing situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory including the continued bombardment in Gaza and the relentless violence against the Palestinians in the West Bank. The report rightly underscores the urgency of protecting civilians and upholding international humanitarian law. Malaysia reaffirms its unwavering support for the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination and statehood, based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital.

 

6. Malaysia underscores the indispensable role of UNRWA in fulfilling its humanitarian and developmental mandate. We call upon all Member States to stand united in safeguarding the Agency’s vital work, ensuring that it can continue to serve those most in need. The international community must act collectively and decisively to uphold international law, protect civilians, and advance a just and lasting peace for Palestine.

 

7. Second, Malaysia reaffirms its strong commitment to international law, including international humanitarian law and international human rights law, as a shared foundation for international cooperation. The report’s reference to the work of the International Court of Justice, including its advisory opinions and provisional measures, serves as a timely reminder that respect for judicial processes and legal obligations is fundamental to a rules-based international order.

 

8. In this context, Malaysia welcomes the Secretary-General’s recent letter, underscoring the imperative of Israel’s compliance with its obligations under international law with respect to UNRWA.

 

9. Finally, Malaysia supports efforts to enhance the efficiency, integrity and effectiveness of the Organisation. We welcome ongoing reforms, including the UN80 Initiative, as a system-wide effort to review mandates, drive innovation and ensure that the UN remains fit for purpose. In this regard, Malaysia reiterates the responsibility of all Member States to meet their financial obligations in full and on time, as adequate resources are essential for the Secretary-General and the Secretariat to fulfil mandates entrusted to them.

 

10. In closing, Malaysia reaffirms its unwavering commitment to multilateralism. At a time of rising geopolitical and geo-economic uncertainty, the UN remains the most legitimate and inclusive platform for addressing global challenges. Malaysia stands ready to work constructively with member states and partners to uphold the principles of the UN Charter and to build a more peaceful, just and sustainable world for all.

 

Thank you.