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STATEMENT BY

MS. YANG AISHAH ADNAN
FIRST SECRETARY

PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

 

AT THE GENERAL DEBATE OF THE SECOND COMMITTEE OF THE

78^TH SESSION OF THE UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

 

Mr. Chair,

 

I would like to begin by extending my congratulations on your election as the Chair of the Committee as well as to the new members of the Bureau. Please be assured of Malaysia’s unwavering support to your leadership throughout this Committee's session.

 

2.     Malaysia also aligns itself with the statements made by Cuba on behalf of the G77 and China and Indonesia on behalf of ASEAN.

 

Mr. Chair,

 

3.     As we enter the threshold of 2030, a mere seven years away, we find ourselves facing a disheartening reality. The progress towards achieving the SDGs has been sluggish, with only 15% accomplished thus far. This should be a cause for concern, particularly when we consider the daunting global challenges that loom on the horizon. Hunger continues to afflict far too many, inequality is on the rise, and conflicts are spreading across the globe. These are not issues that we can afford to ignore or delay addressing.

 

4.     Thus, it is imperative that we reinvigorate our commitment to the SDGs, intensify our efforts, and make progress where it matters most. It is no longer sufficient to merely acknowledge the goals, but we must take decisive actions to confront these pressing challenges head-on.

 

Mr. Chair,

 

5.     Malaysia supports the call for the revitalisation of our multilateral institutions involving the overhaul of international financial architecture, with the objective of making them fit for purpose and rooted in the principles of the UN Charter. Most importantly, it should evolve into a global safety net capable of extending assistance to developing nations facing dire economic challenges. The high costs associated with loans from the international financial institutions have become a deterrent for some developing nations, hindering their capacity to invest in sustainable development initiatives.

 

6.     Malaysia welcomes the Secretary-General's proposal relating to the SDG Stimulus of $500 billion per annum. We believe the initiative has the potential to alleviate the financial challenges faced by developing and emerging economies, especially increasing support for development and climate financing, ultimately contributing to the achievement of SDGs.

 

7.     Malaysia also joins other delegations in emphasising the significance of upholding a multilateral trade system that is free and fair, facilitating unhindered cross-border movement of crucial commodities, including food, energy, vaccines, and medications, among others. This not only fosters global economic stability but also ensures access to vital resources for all nations.

 

8.     In a related context, Malaysia is deeply concerned over the suspension of the Black Sea Grain Initiative, posing a serious threat to the global food security. The suspension not only threatens the stability of the food systems but also puts the livelihoods and well-being of global populations at risk, with particularly severe repercussions for numerous lower-income nations that are already contending with issues of hunger and economic distress.

 

Mr. Chair,

 

9.     The accessibility to technology holds the potential to bridge disparities across various sectors, which is crucial in driving economic progress. Focusing on the swift advancements in technology, it is worth noting that artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the global stage. It presents both unique challenges and remarkable growth and development prospects. This underscores the transformative potential of technology in addressing critical societal needs and fostering global progress.

 

10.     In this regard, Malaysia will continue to participate in the discussions on the Global Digital Compact (GDC), recognising the importance of this platform in addressing emerging topics like AI and issues such as the digital divide. Malaysia aims to advocate for a GDC that fosters digital inclusion and encourages innovation, acknowledging its potential to accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs while navigating the complexities of the digital age.

 

Mr. Chair,

 

11.     Recently, scientists have verified that the world has endured its hottest summer on record. Malaysia, too, has witnessed an escalation in the adverse effects of climate change, such as rising temperatures, increasing sea levels and intensified monsoons, all of which have disrupted livelihoods and harmed local ecosystems. In light of these circumstances, Malaysia is actively contributing to the global effort to tackle climate change by formulating low-carbon and renewable energy roadmaps, which will facilitate the implementation of both mitigation and adaptation strategies.

 

12.     Our newly-launched National Energy Transition Roadmap will play a pivotal role in the pursuit of achieving our Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and guiding us toward realising our net-zero aspirations. Our key initiatives include increasing renewable energy generation capacity, installing solar panels on Government buildings and promoting new green growth areas such as Carbon Capture, Utilisation and Storage energy system.

 

13.     In addition, we call upon developed nations to honour their commitment to mobilise USD 100 billion annually to support the climate ambitions of developing countries. We also wish to reiterate that common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities for climate actions are critical and should be based on national needs and priorities.

 

Mr. Chair,

 

14.     In less than a decade, we must actualise the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, underscoring the urgency of revitalising our endeavours in the wake of the various crises mentioned earlier. Malaysia remains committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to translate political commitments into tangible actions. These actions will be crucial in fostering a sustainable recovery and working towards the rebuilding of a sustainable future that benefits the global community.

 

Thank you for your attention.