STATEMENT BY
DATO’ HJ. ABDUL HALIM BIN HJ. ABDUL RAHMAN
DEPUTY SECRETARY-GENERAL (SECURITY), MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS MALAYSIA
UNDER AGENDA ITEM 118: REPORT OF THE SECRETARY-GENERAL OF THE UNITED NATIONS 9TH GLOBAL COUNTER-TERRORISM STRATEGY
GENERAL ASSEMBLY, UNITED NATIONS HEADQUARTERS, NEW YORK, 1 JULY 2026
Mdm. President, Excellencies, Distinguished Delegates,
Malaysia is honored to participate in this 9th Review of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy (GCTS). At the outset, let me congratulate you, Mdm. President, on your leadership in steering the General Assembly during this important session.
Malaysia reaffirms its unwavering and steadfast commitment to the UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy. As we approach the twenty-year mark since the Strategy's inception, its relevance remains undisputed. It serves as our collective blueprint in the global fight against the affliction of terrorism—a threat that recognizes no borders and respects no humanity.
On the Secretary-General’s Report (A/80/620)
Malaysia expresses its profound appreciation to the Secretary-General for his comprehensive report. The report provides a sobering analysis of the current global security environment. We note with grave concern that while some gains have been made, the terrorism landscape is evolving at a pace that often outstrips our regulatory and security frameworks.
Specifically, Malaysia shares the Secretary-General's concerns regarding the misuse of emerging technologies. The rapid proliferation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents a double-edged sword; while it offers tools for detection, it is increasingly being exploited by terrorist groups for sophisticated propaganda, recruitment, and the automated planning of attacks. Furthermore, the use of virtual assets for terrorism financing and the increasing deployment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for kinetic attacks require our urgent and coordinated attention. We must ensure that our technological advancement does not become a catalyst for extremist violence.
Draft Resolution A/80/L.82
Malaysia expresses its full support for the GCTS which remains a testament of our collective resolve to adapt the Strategy to the realities of today. Malaysia takes this opportunity to thank Finland and Morocco for their valuable efforts in facilitating the 9th review process.
We strongly emphasize the importance of a balanced implementation of all four pillars of the Strategy. It is our firm belief that focusing on one pillar at the expense of others will only lead to a fragmented and ineffective response. A holistic approach is the only way to ensure sustainable peace and security.
National Priorities and Strategy Implementation
Malaysia’s counter-terrorism efforts are grounded in a "Whole-of-Government" and "Whole-of-Society" approach, reflecting the tenets of the Strategy. Malaysia is pleased to have jointly organised a side event, yesterday, with Iraq, IOM and UNAOC, titled “Localized and Whole-of-Society Approach in Preventing and Countering Violent Extremism (PCVE): Strengthening Youth Resilience, Community Partnership, and Reintegration” where we shared practical examples in preventing youth radicalization, strengthen community resilience, supporting rehabilitation and reintegration and promoting partnerships grounded in local realities and responsive to evolving digital threats.
We highlight the ongoing efforts of the Southeast Asia Regional Centre for Counter-Terrorism (SEARCCT) based in Kuala Lumpur. SEARCCT continues to play a pivotal role in providing technical assistance, capacity building, and research to regional partners. We invite Member States to further collaborate with SEARCCT to strengthen our collective defenses.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mdm. President, Malaysia reiterates its long-standing position: terrorism should not and cannot be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group. To attribute terrorism to any specific faith only serves the narrative of the terrorists themselves and fuels Islamophobia and other forms of bigotry.
Malaysia reaffirms its full support for the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism (UNOCT) and the Secretary-General's leadership. We stand ready to work with all Member States to ensure that the implementation of the GCTS results in a stronger, more agile, and more unified global response.
Thank you, Mdm. President.