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STATEMENT BY

 

HIS EXCELLENCY AMBASSADOR AHMAD FAISAL MUHAMAD

PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

 

AT THE INTERGOVERNMENTAL NEGOTIATIONS ON THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL REFORM

DISCUSSION ON THE FIVE CLUSTERS- WORKING METHODS

 

19 MARCH 2024

 

 

Distinguished Co-Chairs,

 

My delegation thanks you for your leadership in this process. We welcome today’s discussion on the five clusters of the Security Council reform- specifically on the working methods of the Security Council.

 

Reforming the Security Council extends beyond expanding its membership and reviewing the veto power. Equally crucial is a reform of its working method, to ensure the Council remain relevant, effective, transparent and accountable.

 

Distinguished Co-Chairs,

 

Having attended structured dialogues on different models, Malaysia takes note of the proposals presented by all Groups and Member States, on improving the working methods of the Council. Malaysia in this regard wishes to offer its views as follows:

 

One, on regular reporting: Malaysia believes that mandating regular reporting by members on their actions and decisions within the UNSC would ensure transparency and accountability. On this note, Malaysia lauds the Veto Initiative by Liechtenstein, adopted in 2022.

 

Second, on open meetings: Malaysia supports increasing the frequency of open meetings where discussions and decisions are accessible to Members States who are not Council members, as well as the general public. This is essential towards improving transparency and trust.

 

Third, Malaysia sees merit in establishing consultative mechanisms: The Security Council should establish formal mechanisms for close consultation, for example with regional organizations and states concerned.  This would ensure regional and domestic perspectives are taken into account in Council’s deliberation. In addition, as the UN peacekeeping operations are mandated by the Security Council, there should also be consistent and periodic consultations with troop- and police-contributing countries.

 

Fourth, we should strive to enhance communication: Communication channels between the UNSC and other UN bodies, such as the General Assembly and specialized agencies need to be improved in order to foster greater cooperation and coordination.

 

Finally, technology integration: Our delegation advocates utilizing technology for more efficient information-sharing, decision-making processes, and documentation within the UNSC. This will also contribute towards improving transparency and trust in the work of the Council.

 

Distinguished Co-Chairs,

 

Almost eight decades have passed since the United Nations was established to maintain international peace and security. Malaysia agrees with the majority of member states that reform of the Security Council is absolutely necessary to make it more responsive and able to carry out its responsibilities more effectively. Towards this end, Malaysia calls upon Member States to be constructive in our negotiations and ready to exercise utmost flexibility, to ensure a productive outcome.

 

I thank you.