STATEMENT BY
H.E. AMBASSADOR AHMAD FAISAL MUHAMAD
PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVE OF MALAYSIA TO THE UNITED NATIONS
AT THE UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL
OPEN DEBATE ON
PROMOTING CONFLICT PREVENTION
-EMPOWERING ALL ACTORS INCLUDING WOMEN AND YOUTH
13 MARCH 2024, NEW YORK
Madam President,
- Malaysia thanks Japan for convening this important debate on “Promoting Conflict Prevention- Empowering all actors including women and youth”. Our delegation also appreciates the valuable insights shared by the briefers today.
Madam President,
- Malaysia firmly believes that sustainable peace can only be ensured by addressing the potential root causes of conflicts, which can relate to economic disparities and social injustices. Therefore, a holistic approach is imperative, and it should aim to build resilience within communities and mitigate the potential for conflict.
- One crucial aspect of this holistic approach is the inclusion and empowerment of all actors, with a specific emphasis on women and youth. Recognizing their roles as agents of change and peace-builders is important.
- Women can bring unique perspectives and solutions to the table, and youth represent the future that must be shaped by inclusivity and equal opportunity.
- Empowering women and youth is not only a matter of justice but also a strategic imperative. Studies consistently show that societies with greater gender equality are more resilient and less prone to conflict. Youth, with their energy, creativity, and determination, can be powerful catalysts for positive change. Embracing their potential is an investment towards a more stable and peaceful future.
Madam President,
- The formulation of Malaysia’s national policies, including in peace and security takes into account gender perspective. For example, we are proud of the 94 women officials who are currently serving among the 865 Malaysian Armed Forces and Royal Malaysia Police in five UN Peacekeeping operations.
- We have found that the involvement of women officials have been very valuable, for instance when addressing issues like gender-based crimes, and conflict-related sexual violence.
- Malaysia fully endorses the ASEAN Joint Statement on Promoting Women, Peace and Security adopted in November 2017. Further, the ASEAN Institute for Peace and Reconciliation (ASEAN- IPR) as ASEAN’s Track 1.5 platform, also focuses on youth participation in peacebuilding to promote ASEAN’s culture of peace. These are among the testaments to our commitment in advancing the implementation of the WPS and YPS.
Madam President,
- Malaysia notes that the challenges in promoting the full, equal, and meaningful participation of all actors, including women and youth, are significant, but the opportunities are equally profound. As we work towards the Summit of the Future, Malaysia calls for more constructive discussions such as this debate, to enhance cooperation and collaboration in the maintenance of peace and security.
Thank you.
News From Mission