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STATEMENT

 

FOURTH COMMITTEE OF THE 80^TH SESSION OF

THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

 

ON THE GENERAL DEBATE ON

ITEM 53 – QUESTIONS RELATING TO INFORMATION

 

Chair,

 

Malaysia aligns itself with the statements delivered by Viet Nam on behalf of ASEAN and by Iraq on behalf of the Group of 77 and China.

 

2. At the outset, Malaysia commends the important role played by the Department of Global Communications in narrating and amplifying the work of the United Nations through its traditional and digital platforms. As we live in a time marked by rapid information exchange and technological transformation, effective communication remains a key pillar in ensuring that trusted and reliable information reaches diverse audiences across all regions. By presenting accurate and balanced narratives about the work of the United Nations, the Department helps to strengthen global trust and support for the organization’s ideals, aspirations, and initiatives.

 

3. Malaysia supports the Department’s continued efforts to utilize social media, digital storytelling, and innovative outreach campaigns to disseminate information on the activities of the United Nations, including in conflict and crisis-affected areas. Through initiatives such as UN News and UNifeed, the international community has been able to witness the human consequences of conflicts, such as the obstruction of humanitarian aid and vital supplies into Gaza. The media postings have garnered over 1 million views, reflecting the effectiveness of strategic communication in raising awareness and galvanizing action by the global community.

 

4. Beyond media dissemination, Malaysia notes with appreciation the Department’s ongoing commitment to improving its online presence and accessibility. The introduction of a new website section dedicated to “Crisis and Emergency Response” is a commendable step toward enhancing the user experience and ensuring that vital information is available in a timely and organized manner. This initiative allows users worldwide, including policymakers, journalists, researchers, and the general public, to access accurate information and updates on humanitarian situations more efficiently.

 

 

 

 

Chair,

 

5. While we celebrate these commendable innovations in communication technologies, Malaysia remains deeply concerned about the growing challenges and threats posed by misinformation, disinformation, and hate speech across digital platforms. These harmful practices not only distort facts but also have the potential to undermine the credibility of the United Nations and its agencies, polarize societies, and incite hostility and violence. The deliberate fabrication of stories to discredit the UN’s work or to manipulate public perception poses a direct threat to international peace, cooperation, and mutual understanding.

 

6. In this regard, Malaysia emphasizes the importance of fostering constructive engagement, dialogue, and collaboration among all stakeholders including governments, non-governmental organizations, civil society, academia, and the private sector to counter these threats and promote a culture of truth, integrity, and respect. We commend the Department’s proactive approach through initiatives such as the #NoToHate campaign, which features video interviews with scholars, educators, and advocates to guide viewers on how to respond effectively to hate speech.

 

7. The campaign’s multilingual content and cross-platform dissemination have significantly expanded its reach, particularly among young people. Malaysia applauds these efforts, which play an essential role in nurturing digital literacy, empathy, and intercultural understanding among global audiences.

 

Chair,

 

8.  Malaysia strongly condemns the continued and deliberate spread of disinformation targeting United Nations agencies, including the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). False narratives directed against these agencies not only erode public confidence in their work but also endanger the lives of staff who serve in volatile environments. These baseless accusations and smear campaigns would have grave consequences, as they jeopardize humanitarian operations and expose the personnel to life-threatening risks and violence.

 

9. We urge all Member States to fulfil their obligations as Members of the United Nations to uphold the Charter and to continue supporting the work of the United Nations and all of its agencies. We must defend the credibility and impartiality of the organization in good faith.

 

Chair,

 

10. In conclusion, Malaysia reaffirms its steadfast commitment to supporting the Department of Global Communications in carrying out its vital mandate to promote the work of the United Nations, respond to crises and conflicts, and safeguard information integrity. Malaysia stands ready to work closely with all Member States, UN entities and relevant stakeholders to strengthen national and global partnerships in the fields of information and communication. Together, we must ensure that the voices of truth, peace, and cooperation continue to prevail over disinformation, division, and hatred.

 

Thank you.