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STATEMENT BY 
H.E. SYED MOHAMAD HASRIN AIDID
PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
 AT THE UN SECURITY COUNCIL ARRIA FORMULA MEETING ON MYANMAR

NEW YORK, 9 APRIL 2021

 

Mr. Chair,

Malaysia is gravely concerned over the tragic situation in Myanmar since the military coup that took place on 1 February 2021, and the developments that have ensued. We continue to monitor closely the situation on the ground with great interest and concern.

2. Malaysia is appalled by the persistent use of lethal violence against unarmed civilians which has resulted in a high number of deaths, injuries and suffering. The use of live ammunition against peaceful protest is unacceptable and must stop immediately.

3. The situation in the country is a setback to all the democratic progress made as it threatens national reconciliation, unity and economic progress. Malaysia reaffirms its strong support for Myanmar’s democratic transition, peace process and inclusive economic development. We call on the Myanmar authorities to uphold and respect democratic institutions and processes, the rule of law, human rights and fundamental freedoms, including the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression.

4. Malaysia calls on the Myanmar military and all relevant parties to give utmost priority to the maintenance of peace and security in Myanmar, uphold the rule of law, and resolve any electoral discrepancies through established legal mechanisms and dialogue in a peaceful manner.

5. Malaysia’s position on Myanmar is clear and consistent. Malaysia reiterates our consistent call for all concerned parties to work together towards a peaceful settlement of this crisis in the interest of Myanmar and her people. We will continue to support an inclusive dialogue for political transition. We urge all parties to return to the negotiating table, remedy the crisis and avoid any further escalation of tensions. We urge the Myanmar military to change its course and choose a path towards peaceful solutions.

6. Malaysia also calls for the prompt and unconditional release of political leaders, including State Counsellor Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, President U Win Myint and their associates, who have been arbitrarily detained.

Mr. Chair,

7. Malaysia further hopes that the current situation in Myanmar will not have an adverse impact on the repatriation of displaced Rohingyas returning to Myanmar. Malaysia seeks Myanmar’s continuous effort in delivering its commitment to begin and ensure effective repatriation and protect the human rights of the returnees. As a country directly impacted by the Rakhine State crisis, Malaysia will continue to support the ongoing efforts towards a safe, voluntary, dignified and sustainable return of displaced Rohingya to their place of origin in Rakhine State.

8. Malaysia continues to urge the international community to provide political support for the Rohingya cause. We also welcome the humanitarian assistance for the Rohingya refugees currently sheltering in host countries to alleviate the difficult situation faced by the Rohingya community.

Mr. Chair,

9. Malaysia is of the view that ASEAN has an important proactive role in the return to normalcy in Myanmar, as we are committed in promoting and protecting peace, security and prosperity for the region as enshrined in the principles of the ASEAN Charter. Continuous efforts are being undertaken at all levels within the ASEAN framework to address the situation in Myanmar.

10. It is pivotal that ASEAN is supported and given the space to constructively engage with Myanmar to effectively address the expectations of the international community as a whole. We call on the international community to support ASEAN’s efforts.

Mr. Chair,

11. Malaysia also stands ready to work closely with the United Nations Secretary-General, the Special Envoy and other UN mechanisms, particularly the UN Security Council on this matter. Please be assured that Malaysia will continue our constructive engagements with all concerned parties towards finding a peaceful solution in relation to the situation in Myanmar.

I thank you.