Malaysia and UN Security Council

Let me take this opportunity to congratulate Malaysia, particularly Wisma Putra, for whatever they have done as a non-permanent member of the United Nations’ Security Council (UNSC) from 2015 to 2016. I am proud that Malaysia, in such position, has been able to create more kinds of success not only for Malaysia itself, but for the rest of the world.

I am sure that Malaysia has been greatly celebrated by the majority of UN Member States and Observer States following the success Malaysia has created in UN, especially at the very last moment Malaysia sits in the UNSC Chamber, in its non-permanent position, where Resolution 2334 – that Malaysia and 3 other Member States have sponsored – is adopted and, hence, Israeli occupation in the Palestinian land ruled illegal.

The success of Malaysia as a non-permanent member of UNSC did not stop there. There have been successes created by Malaysia throughout the tenure of membership based on five priorities: (1) promote moderation as an approach in conflict resolution, (2) promote mediation as a tool for the peaceful settlement of disputes, (3) promote the enhancement of UN peacekeeping operations, (4) support peace-building in countries emerging from conflict, and (5) encourage continued discussion on UNSC reform.

Malaysian commitment in UNSC did not limited to those priorities only. Malaysia has been working beyond its five priorities of membership, especially when dealing with the situation in Palestine, Syria and Myanmar. The organisation of two high-level open debates and three Arria-formula meetings by Malaysia in the UNSC Chamber has been more than a sufficient proof for this statement.

Unfortunately, Malaysia was unable to defend a draft resolution proposing the creation of an international tribunal to bring to justice those responsible for the downing of MH 17 due to the imposition of veto by Russia. It, however, does not prove the failure of Malaysia. In fact, Malaysia and other involved Member States continue doing their best to make sure justice upheld for those affected by the downing of MH 17.

Once again, I salute Malaysia for its great commitment and contributions done in UNSC as its non-permanent member for 2015-2016. The struggle of Malaysia in maintaining peace and security of the world is, however, should not stop today. Malaysia must ensure that, in days ahead, all resolutions and recommendations recorded in UNSC throughout those years be fully exercised by all concerned parties in due course.

As a Malaysian, I am confident that, with the support given by the majority UN Member States and Observer States, and with the spirit and values that Malaysian people have created together, Malaysian dream to see a peaceful and prosperous international community will turn to a reality in the near future. Although Malaysia is no longer a member of UNSC, I pray for the continuous success of Malaysia in UN.

Photo courtesy of Berita Harian