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STATEMENT BY
MR. MOHD HAFIZ BIN OTHMAN
MINISTER COUNSELLOR, PERMANENT MISSION OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS

ON THE Question of equitable representation on and increase in the membership of the Security Council
cluster: i) On the size of an enlarged Council and working methods of the council; and 
ii) the relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly,

NEW YORK, 16 MARCH 2021

 

Madame Co-Chairs,

Thank you for your continued leadership on this IGN process. Let me briefly highlight Malaysia's position concerning the two remaining clusters today.  

2.   On the size of an enlarged Council, Malaysia supports the expansion of membership, both permanent and non-permanent categories, to ensure fair regional representation that corresponds with the current geo-political realities and dynamics. We stand ready to discuss further the proposed enlargement of the Security Council that consists of a total of members in the mid-20s, as reflected in the document entitled "revised elements of commonality and issues for further consideration."

3.   On working methods of the Security Council, Malaysia commends the constant efforts of the Council in exploring practical working methods during these unprecedented circumstances of COVID-19. We encourage the Council to ensure the full participation of all Security Council members in its work, including the opportunity for non-permanent members to serve as penholders. We also called for greater transparency and the participation of non-Council members in public meetings and briefings.

Madame Co-Chairs,

4.   With regard to the relationship between the Security Council and the General Assembly, my delegation considers the enhanced relationship between the Security Council and General Assembly can improve the Council’s ability to respond to the conflicts and crises that possess a consequential threat to international peace and security. Noting that the Council has the primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, it does not, and should not, act entirely in isolation. 

5.   This relationship and working methods are also closely related to the decision-making process of the Council. While continuing to advocate the abolishment of the veto system, we reiterate our call that the veto power in its current format should not be exercised by just one permanent member but by at least two permanent members and supported by three non-permanent members of the Security Council. The General Assembly should then support the decision with a simple majority. We put forward this proposal as we believe it would provide the necessary checks and balances which reflects the principles of transparency and accountability in decision making process.

6.   Malaysia also considers the annual Report of the Security Council to the General Assembly as a crucial mechanism of accountability in governing the relationship between these two important organs. My delegation continues to call for a more comprehensive Report that includes substantive information and an in-depth analysis of the Council's work. Such a report would allow the General Assembly to have a substantive discussion in evaluating the Council’s work with a view to assist the Council in fulfilling its mandates. 

7.   We also call on the Presidents of the Security Council and the General Assembly to explore ways in strengthening greater substantive and complementary collaboration between these two organs, on a frequent basis.

Madame Co-Chairs,

8.   Let me conclude by assuring you of Malaysia's commitment to moving this process forward.

Thank you.