STATEMENT BY

MR SHIVANAND SIVAMOHAN

FIRST SECRETARY

 

THEMATIC DEBATE ON OUTER SPACE

(DISARMAMENT ASPECTS)

FIRST COMMITTEE OF THE 80^TH SESSION OF THE

UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY

 

NEW YORK, 27 OCTOBER 2025 

 

Mr. Chair,

 

Malaysia associates itself with the statements by NAM and by ASEAN.

 

2.As technological advances open new doors for exploration, we must not lose sight of the need to protect outer space from the dangers of militarisation. Maintaining the use of outer space for exclusively peaceful purposes is imperative, especially in times of rising tension and major-power rivalry.

 

3.Malaysia recognizes the indispensable role of inclusive multilateral discourse regarding outer space. It is important that we collectively avoid institutional fragmentation, and ensure the equitable participation of all States in expounding and further developing the applicable rules, norms and principles in this domain.

 

4.My delegation welcomes the adoption of the agenda and indicative programme of work of the Open-Ended Working Group (OEWG) on the Prevention of an Arms Race in Outer Space in all its Aspects (2024-2028). This is an encouraging signal of the political will of the global community in maintaining outer space as a common heritage of mankind, which we should build upon as the OEWG advances its substantive deliberations.

 

5. In the same spirit, my delegation also recalls last year’s adoption by consensus of the final report of the Group of Governmental Experts on Further Measures to Prevent an Arms Race in Outer Space established by General Assembly resolution 77/250.

 

6.In January 2025, the Malaysian Space Board Act 2022 fully entered into force, ensuring a robust legal framework for the regulation of our national space activities and the fulfilment of relevant international obligations. On 26 September 2025, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia deposited our instrument of accession to the Convention on Registration of Objects Launched into Outer Space (REG 1975), thereby effecting its entry into force for Malaysia. Subsequently, on 21 October 2025, Malaysia submitted its instrument of ratification for the Outer Space Treaty of 1967. These measures reflect Malaysia’s aspiration to become an active and responsible player in the rapidly growing global space sector, including through adherence to foundational instruments of international space law.

 

7.Malaysia also commends the continued efforts of the Committee on the Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA), given the critical role of capacity building in this field, particularly for developing countries. 

 

Thank you.